Postgraduate Diploma in Applied Science
Develop advanced skills in applied science research and biodiversity management, focusing on complex environmental challenges in Aotearoa New Zealand and the Pacific. Build practical experience with government, iwi, industry, and community organisations.
$ENQUIRE
Interested in this course? Enquire now for Domestic & International pricing
In-person study
Face-to-face learning in a physical classroom setting
Mokoia Campus, Rotorua
It will take a total of 1 year
$ENQUIRE
Interested in this course? Enquire now for Domestic & International pricing
Core skills this course teaches
Develop advanced technical and research skills
Students will build expertise in advanced applied science, research methodologies, and critical analysis of scientific problems.
Undertake independent, ethical research
Students will design and complete a small-scale, original research project, conducting rigorous analysis and synthesising findings as a dissertation.
Engage authentically with Māori and other stakeholders
Through cultural competency development, students will engage with stakeholders including iwi and Māori organisations, integrating partnership principles under Te Tiriti o Waitangi.
About This Course
The Postgraduate Diploma in Applied Science provides advanced technical and research skills to investigate and solve complex environmental and biodiversity challenges. Students work closely with government, iwi, and industry partners, focusing on practical, real-world projects and ethical research. The course has a particular emphasis on integrating mātauranga Māori and science, preparing graduates to act as kaitiaki and address sustainability and wellbeing issues in te taiao. It includes opportunities for fieldwork, stakeholder engagement, applied research, environmental monitoring, and hands-on experiences with a range of species and habitats.
Course Content
- Partnership and stakeholder engagement with Māori and other communities
- Applied research methods and proposal development
- Biosecurity: strategy and implementation
- Environmental monitoring: fieldwork and technology practice
- Independent dissertation in a specialised applied science topic
Entry Requirements
A recognised Bachelor's degree (or higher) in a relevant discipline with a B- or higher grade average OR professional qualification in a relevant discipline accepted as equivalent to merit achievement.
Relevant disciplines may include Science, Biology, Chemistry, Environmental Science, Zoology, Ecology, Botany, Conservation Biology, Sustainability management etc.
Applicants by special admission: at least 20 years old with relevant work/life experience, CV, transcripts, English language evidence, Statement of Purpose, 3 years' work experience in a related field, and work references.
English language: IELTS Academic 6.5 (no band lower than 6) or New Zealand Certificate in English Language Level 5 Academic Endorsement, or as per NZQA guidelines.
Access to a computer and internet.
Build towards these roles
Biodiversity ConsultantEnvironmental ConsultantBiosecurity ConsultantEnvironmental AdvisorScience AdvisorBiodiversity AdvisorEcologistTaxonomistLaboratory TechnicianField TechnicianGIS AnalystScience CommunicatorTechnical OfficerTechnical AdvisorSenior Biodiversity RangerEnvironmental Scientist
Build skills in these industries
EnvironmentAgricultureGovernment
Known for hands-on, industry-aligned education, Toi Ohomai focuses on giving learners real skills that lead to real outcomes. With strong employer connections, supportive teaching, and clear pathways across certificates, diplomas, and degrees, it’s a place where learning stays relevant and confidence grows over time. Courses span trades, construction, business, health, creative industries, technology, and primary industries, helping learners build experience and momentum for whatever comes next.
