Programme Outline
The Graduate Diploma in Environmental Studies is a 120-credit, Level 7 programme designed to support flexible, individualised learning pathways. Each learner’s programme of study is developed in collaboration with the programme team to reflect their academic background, interests, and career goals. While a minimum of 75 credits must be at Level 7 (and include the scientific research course), the remaining credits may be selected from relevant courses at Level 5 and Level 6.
Subject Areas include:
- 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
Please note: This qualification is subject to NZQA approval and accreditation.
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 Graduate Diploma of Environmental Studies you may wish to further your knowledge with a relevant postgraduate qualification.
Entry Requirements
A personal interview is available as part of the application process.
Applicants must meet one of the following criteria:
• Successful completion of a three-year degree of equivalent qualification; or
• Applicants from industry who can demonstrate evidence of significant work and professional experience at degree level of above. These applicants will be required to participate in an interview prior to acceptance into the programme.
English Language Entry Requirements
All applicants must demonstrate an acceptable level of English language fluency prior to acceptance in the programme. 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 5 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
Entry with Credit
This is particularly relevant for prospective students who have extensive work experience. For all endorsements Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) is available. A maximum of 45 credits from other programmes can be cross credited towards the Graduate Diploma in Environmental Studies. Credit transfer cannot be made from the qualifying degree.
• Cross Credit (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.
• There is a fee for RPL.
You will be asked to provide details of anything that you would like to be considered as credit toward your intended programme of study, as part of your application.
RPL and CC cannot be awarded for a course if you are already enrolled in that course. An original transcript or notice of results from the institute at which you previously studied (or verified copies) will be required for all applications.
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.