Marine Conservation University of Auckland

Overview

The Marine Conservation programme at the University of Auckland provides students with the advanced technical and practical skills required to address the complex challenges facing our global oceans. This multidisciplinary degree focuses on the management and guardianship of marine environments, specifically addressing the growing global network of Marine Protected Areas.

As pressures on marine ecosystems intensify, there is an increasing demand for experts who can advocate for, design, and monitor protected zones. This degree bridges the gap between pure science, policy, and strategic management, ensuring graduates are prepared to lead conservation initiatives in diverse professional settings.

Why Marine Conservation at the University of Auckland?

This programme is uniquely developed and delivered in partnership with Conservation International, providing students with direct insights into global conservation efforts. Learning takes place at the City Campus and the renowned Leigh Marine Laboratory, offering a blend of urban academic study and hands-on coastal experience.

The curriculum is designed to upskill those already working in the sector while providing a robust entry point for graduates from other disciplines. By combining academic rigour with practical policy experience, the university ensures that students gain a comprehensive understanding of how to influence environmental outcomes at a high level.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

• International fee: NZD 55484 per year
• National fee: NZD 10619 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The curriculum includes a mixture of core and elective subjects that cover the biological, social, and managerial aspects of the field. Modules may include:

• Marine Ecology
• Biology
• Conservation Biology
• Environmental Science
• Social Science
• Environmental Management
• Policy

Careers with Marine Conservation

Graduates are equipped with a specialised toolkit that makes them highly competitive for roles within governmental agencies, non-governmental organisations, and private environmental consultancies. The integration of science and management training opens diverse pathways in the professional world.

Potential career outcomes for graduates include:

• Scientist
• Marine Conservation Manager
• Project Manager
• Environmental Consultant
• Policy Advisor

The programme also serves as a strong foundation for those wishing to pursue further academic research, such as a Doctor of Philosophy, focusing on specific marine or environmental challenges.