Climate change, habitat loss, invasive species, and human activity are increasing demand for professionals who can design evidence-based conservation programmes and apply them in the field.
The University of Otago in New Zealand offers a postgraduate Wildlife Conservation Programme for students seeking expertise in the protection, conservation, and restoration of wildlife populations.
Two Study Options
Postgraduate Diploma in Wildlife Conservation
The PGDipWLC is a one-year full-time programme comprising 120 points or six postgraduate papers. Students may extend their study to 180 points and transfer into the Master of Wildlife Conservation.
Master of Wildlife Conservation
The MWLC is a 180-point taught master's completed over three semesters, or approximately 1.5 years full time. It prepares students for employment in wildlife management, ecological management, and conservation research.
Both programmes commence in February and may also be studied part time under university requirements.
What Students Study
All students complete WILD 401 Principles of Wildlife Conservation and WILD 402 Techniques of Wildlife Conservation. MWLC students also complete WILD 501 Wildlife Conservation Research Placement.
Other options can include Conservation Biology, Biostatistics, Marine Conservation Biology, Antarctic Marine Biology, Evolutionary Genetics, Behavioural Ecology, Freshwater Ecology, and Environmental Impact Assessment.
Applied Research Experience
Through WILD 501, MWLC students spend approximately eight weeks completing an applied research project with a conservation organisation or professional. Activities may include data collection and analysis, report writing, evaluating monitoring protocols, and developing management plans.
Typical Entry Background
Applicants normally hold a degree in zoology, biology, ecology, or a related area and have achieved a strong academic standard. Otago also encourages applications from candidates with wildlife conservation or administration experience who do not hold a relevant degree.
Further Research Pathway
PGDipWLC and MWLC graduates may be eligible to proceed to a thesis-only Master of Science. This pathway can suit students who want to develop deeper research expertise or progress towards PhD study.
Career Opportunities
- Wildlife conservation
- Ecological management
- Environmental research
- Protected-area management
- Biodiversity monitoring
- Invasive-species management
- Environmental consulting
- Conservation organisations
- Government environmental agencies
Visit the official Wildlife Conservation Programme page for current information.
Prepare Your Application with RIM Education
RIM Education counsellors can help assess your academic background, compare programme options, and review English requirements, application documents, tuition fees, scholarships, and the New Zealand student visa process. Contact WhatsApp at +62 811-980-1818 or email info@rimeducation.com.
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