Bachelor of Environmental Studies

To see the most relevant information, please let us know if you are an international student.

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To see the most relevant information, please let us know if you are an international student.

Study the environment and help shape the future

Turn your passion for the environment into a meaningful career with the Bachelor of Environmental Studies. This degree combines scientific knowledge with practical skill in areas like ecology, conservation, biosecurity, GIS and sustainability to tackle real-world environmental challenges in Aotearoa and beyond. 

You will explore how natural systems work, how human actions affect the environment, and how we can monitor, manage, and restore ecosystems. 

EIT | New Zealand Institute of Skills and Technology students (ākonga) Jordyn Campbell (left) Tiana Gillett, Holly Bennett and Emily Strong with Environmental Studies Lecturer Chris Thorman (middle).

Study the environment and help shape the future

Turn your passion for the environment into a meaningful career with the Bachelor of Environmental Studies. This degree combines scientific knowledge with practical skill in areas like ecology, conservation, biosecurity, GIS and sustainability to tackle real-world environmental challenges in Aotearoa and beyond. 

You will explore how natural systems work, how human actions affect the environment, and how we can monitor, manage, and restore ecosystems. 

Programme Outline

In this degree programme, you will learn about ecosystems, conservation issues, sustainable management of land and plant life, as well as the management strategies that promote the conservation of biodiversity and address biosecurity.

As an environmental studies learner you will learn core environmental science and sustainability principles, practical field and research skills, and how to manage and protect natural resources.

Subject Areas

  • Geographical Information Systems (GIS)
  • Biosecurity
  • Ecological Restoration
  • Applied Field Surveying
  • Flora and fauna of Aotearoa
  • Enviromental Sampling and Monitoring
  • Soil Science
  • Sustainability 101
  • Introduction to Biology
  • Scientific Research Project
  • Freshwater Ecology and Monitoring

Career and Study Opportunities

Possible job and career opportunities can include:

  • Conservation Officer/Ranger
  • Sustainability Advisor
  • Biosecurity Advisor
  • Biodiversity Consultant
  • GIS Analyst
  • Catchment of Community Engagement Facilitator
  • Environmental Monitoring Officer

On completion of the Bachelor of Environmental Studies you may wish to further your knowledge with a relevant postgraduate qualification.

 

Entry Requirements

Entry Requirements

A personal interview is available as part of the application process.

Applicants must meet one of the following criteria:

• University Entrance; or
• Successful completion of the NZ Diploma in Environmental Management [Level 5]; or
• An equivalent qualification; or
• Evidence regarded as sufficient by EIT of your capability to undertake and complete the programme of study; or
• At the discretion of EIT where the applicant is over 20 years of age and demonstrates the capability to undertake and complete the programme of study.

Preference will be given to applicants who have achieved either:

• 12 credits or more at NCEA Level 3 in Science-rich subjects (such as, Biology, Physics or Chemistry); or
• 12 credits or more in English-rich subjects (such as English, History, Geography and Economics).

English Language Entry Requirements

If English is not your first language you are required to have an acceptable level of English fluency. This may be demonstrated in a variety of ways, including:

• Successful study of a programme in which English was the language of instruction (conditions apply)
• Completion of a New Zealand Certificate in English Language (Level 4 with any endorsement)
• IELTS Academic score of 6.0, with no band score lower than 5.5, achieved in a single test within the two years preceding enrolment
• International equivalents to IELTS accepted by NZQA

In addition, applicants are required to show evidence of good school records.

Entry with Credit
You may already have some knowledge or skills that can be recognised as part of your intended study. This may take a number of different forms including study at a private training establishment, workplace training, other tertiary study, life experiences or voluntary work. If you think you may qualify, you may want to apply for Cross Credit (CC) or Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL).

• CC is based on the equivalency of courses or qualifications. You would apply for CC if you have passed a very similar course at the same level.
• RPL is based on the assessment of your current knowledge and skills. You would apply for RPL if you had gained the relevant knowledge and skills through life experiences and informal learning situations.

You will be asked to provide details of anything that you would like considered as credit toward your intended programme of study, as part of your application.

You must apply prior to enrolment. CC and RPL cannot be awarded for a course you are already enrolled in.

The overall RPL credit limit is 50%.

For further information and enquiries about CC and RPL

Please contact the Programme Coordinator, Lisa Turnbull, on 06 830 1879 or LMTurnbull@eit.ac.nz.

 

How to Enrol

Step 1 – Check entry requirements

Make sure you have read and understood the entry requirements for your situation and background.

Entry requirements can be different for domestic and international students.

Step 2 – Confirm campus and check key dates

The next intake date(s) for your chosen course and campus are listed in the Course Details panel on this page.

Dates can vary between campuses, so make sure you have selected the campus you wish to study at.

Step 3 – Confirm fees and costs

Visit https://www.eit.ac.nz/fees/ to see the fees for this programme.

Step 4 – Complete any supporting forms

If your course requires any supporting forms, they will be listed below under ‘Supporting Documentation’

Step 5 – Submit your application

You’ll need an up-to-date email address to start your online application.

You’ll also need to know what you want to study – your degree or programme and majors and/or minors, and the courses you plan to take.

You may be asked to submit supporting documentation with your application.

Programme Outline

In this degree programme, you will learn about ecosystems, conservation issues, sustainable management of land and plant life, as well as the management strategies that promote the conservation of biodiversity and address biosecurity.

As an environmental studies learner you will learn core environmental science and sustainability principles, practical field and research skills, and how to manage and protect natural resources.

Subject Areas

  • Geographical Information Systems (GIS)
  • Biosecurity
  • Ecological Restoration
  • Applied Field Surveying
  • Flora and fauna of Aotearoa
  • Enviromental Sampling and Monitoring
  • Soil Science
  • Sustainability 101
  • Introduction to Biology
  • Scientific Research Project
  • Freshwater Ecology and Monitoring

Career and Study Opportunities

Possible job and career opportunities can include:

  • Conservation Officer/Ranger
  • Sustainability Advisor
  • Biosecurity Advisor
  • Biodiversity Consultant
  • GIS Analyst
  • Catchment of Community Engagement Facilitator
  • Environmental Monitoring Officer

On completion of the Bachelor of Environmental Studies you may wish to further your knowledge with a relevant postgraduate qualification.

 

Entry Requirements

For further information about studying this programme, please contact the International Centre: international@eit.ac.nz

How to Apply

Ready to apply? It’s easy!

Complete and sign our international student application form at eit.ac.nz/apply-online-international/

  • Indicate which programme you intend to study.
  • Attach a verified copy of your birth certificate or passport to use as identification.
  • Remember to include all other supporting documents.
  • We will assess your application and let you know the outcome as soon as possible, usually within three to five working days.

On-campus study in New Zealand

Step 1 – Pay your fees

  • After submitting your application, you will receive an Offer of Place letter by email with details of your tuition and other fees payable.
    Please note: If you have applied using the services of an agent, a copy of this information will also be sent to your agent.
  • Pay your fees and apply for your student visa.
  • We will send you a receipt, which you will need when you apply for your student visa.

We recommend you apply at least 12 weeks before your intended start date. You can apply online at www.immigration.govt.nz
If you have any questions about the process, contact your agent or email visas@eit.ac.nz

Step 2 – Prepare to come to New Zealand

Book your flights

When your student visa is approved, book your flights and ensure you meet all government-mandated entry requirements to come to New Zealand. Check the Immigration New Zealand website for the most up-to-date information.

Organise your accommodation

If you haven’t already organised your accommodation, you should now decide which of the accommodation options is most suitable for you. You can find our more about our EIT accommodation options here.

Step 3 – Connect with us

  • Be sure to complete and submit the arrival form sent to you by the International Student Support Officer.
  • Your International Student Support Officer will contact you prior to the start of your programme to let you know what you need to do and keep you up to date on what to expect when you arrive.

Online study

Step 1 – Enrol

  • After submitting your application, you will receive your acceptance into the programme by email alongside instructions on how to enrol.
  • Complete and sign the enrolment form provided to you by our Admissions Team and send it back to internationalapplications@eit.ac.nz
    Please note: If you have applied using the services of an agent, a copy of this information will also be sent to your agent.

Step 2 – Choose your courses and pay your Fees

  • Your course selection form will be sent to you by our team.
  • After completing your course selection form, you will be sent an invoice. You can then pay your fees by bank transfer to EIT’s account. Full account details and payment information will be provided on your invoice.

Step 3 – Connect with us

Your International Student Support Officer will contact you after you enrol to keep you up-to-date with anything you need to know, including details about your Orientation, where you will meet your classmates and all about studying at EIT.

Whether you join us on-campus or online, we welcome you to the EIT student community!

If you need any help you can contact our friendly staff at international@eit.ac.nz

“The wonderful tutors and small class sizes at EIT (compared to class sizes at larger universities), meant that I was getting high quality classes, with tailored information that interested me, a lot of time to ask questions and receive great feedback which motivated and accelerated my learning.”

Aimey Tahu (Ngāpuhi)
Bachelor of Applied Science (Biodiversity Management) Graduate

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Disability Support

Support is available for students with physical, sensory, intellectual, and learning disabilities (including dyslexia, dyspraxia and other neurodiversity) and mental health conditions. Support is designed to provide equitable opportunities and is available to all students with permanent or temporary disabilities or health conditions, including when recovering from injury or surgery. Services are available depending upon your needs and range from information and advice to technology solutions and alternative arrangements for test and exams. Our disability peer support group Te Rōpu Āwhina meets regularly on the Hawke’s Bay Campus to share kai, connection and wellbeing.

For more help please email Desley Aranui daranui@eit.ac.nz

Wellbeing Support

Wellbeing support is available to all students. We can help you to identify your goals, support your needs, and connect you with appropriate support on and off campus. We use Te Whare Tapa Whā as our guiding model for holistic support and connectedness.

We have a Rainbow Diversity peer support group Te Roopu Āniwaniwa on the Hawke’s Bay Campus, as well as wellbeing
drop ins and workshops to support you to maintain and improve your wellbeing.

For more information contact Barbara West bwest@eit.ac.nz

Māori and Pasifika Support

You can get advice, mentoring and support for cultural needs and values, te reo Māori, waiata and tikanga, scholarships, iwi and hapū registrations and grants.

Our Pasifika student support team aims to create a trusting and culturally inviting space for students to feel supported and thrive in their education journey. Our team is passionate and dedicated to removing barriers to learning by working with students and their aiga and staff in ensuring diversity and equity is met. We support students with studylink, tutor support, wraparound support and mentoring, cultural competency and much more.

For more information contact:

Pasifika
Valencia Taurima Heperi 
VTaurimaHeperi@eit.ac.nz

Māori pastoral care
Kaihoe Apiata
KApiata@eit.ac.nz

Māori Academic
Opal Horsefield Te Aho
OHorsefieldTeAho@eit.ac.nz

 

Academic Learning Services

Academic Learning Services is here to assist you on your journey towards the successful completion of your studies at EIT. Our aim is for you to become confident, competent and independent learners.

We have dedicated advisors who can assist with your learning.

Find out more email Heather Pilbeam hpilbeam@eit.ac.nz

Scholarships

EIT offers a variety of scholarships across various subjects and programme levels.  Some scholarships are based on your age, some are specific to the subject you want to study.  Not all scholarships are based on your academic ability and anyone wanting to study should investigate what scholarships are available to them.  

You can find a list of EIT scholarships here however there are many more scholarships offered nationally.  Information about these is on an database called “givME”. givME is accessible here, at EIT or at some public libraries. If you would like to come to EIT to look through the giveME database don’t hesitate to contact scholarships@eit.ac.nz or call in for a chat.

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International Student Support

Our International Student Support Officers are here to support you every step of the way. Providing you with the one-to-one help, advice, information and guidance you need to succeed. 

Find out more about our International Student Support Services below:

Auckland Campus
Hawke’s Bay Campus

Academic Services

Academic Learning Services is here to assist you on your journey towards the successful completion of your studies at EIT. Our aim is for you to become confident, competent and independent learners.

We have dedicated advisors who can assist with your learning.

Find out more:

Learning Support Services

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