Graduate Diploma in 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.

EIT | Te Pūkenga students (ākonga) Jordyn Campbell (left) Tiana Gillett, Holly Bennett and Emily Strong with Environmental Studies Lecturer Chris Thorman (middle).

Study the environment and turn your passion for the environment into a meaningful career.

The Graduate Diploma in Environmental Studies is designed for ākonga who already hold a degree in another discipline and wish to transition into the environmental field or upskill with applied environmental knowledge. This one-year, full-time (or part-time equivalent) programme offers a focused suite of courses that combine theory, practical skills, and real-world application.

PLEASE NOTE: This qualification will be offered subject to NZQA approval and accreditation

EIT | Te Pūkenga 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

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.

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

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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