Like a vast empty laboratory, Northland's oceans, coastlines, and forests offer untapped opportunities for original environmental research and discovery. If you value the natural treasures we have right here and want to ensure their preservation, this is the course for you.

Don't worry if you don't have a science background, you'll learn it here as you go. 

This is an academically-strong programme, but that doesn't mean it is all theory.  What you learn in the classroom you'll put into practice out in the environment, by rolling your trousers up, getting your feet wet, and doing it! 

Our programme is structured to allow you to enter at the right level for you and to progress from certificate to diploma level - with qualifications at each step leading into jobs or into further study at degree-level.

Each year we review our programme with key employers including DoC, Niwa, Northland Regional Council and the businesses that employ our graduates, this ensures that our programme is current and relevant - and that you are learning the sorts of skills that will lead to well-paid jobs. 

It's a great investment in yourself - and in our environment.

Diploma in Conservation and Environmental Management

Level 6

Two years, full time

Whangarei Campus

Overview

 Students will gain the knowledge and skills to enable the monitoring and management of human impacts on the environment.

Career Options

• Environmental monitoring
• Wildlife management
• Pest control programme management and monitoring
• Consent management and monitoring

Admission Information
In addition to generic entry requirements, school leavers require a Year 12, NCEA Level 2 education or higher, and are recommended to hold 14 or more NCEA Level 3 Credits in Geography and/or a Science. Students over 20 years of age will be considered on a case-by-case basis. Applicants will be considered eligible for admission where they can provide evidence of suitability based on interview and/or portfolio. Applicants with qualifications in science and related fields or people with experience in environmental management will have an advantage.

Qualifications Gained

NT4456 - Northland Polytechnic Diploma in Conservation and Environmental Management

This programme does not include assessment against National Qualification Framework standards and no credit will be reported to NZQA.

Certificate in Environmental Studies

Level 3

17 weeks, full time

Whangarei, Kerikeri, Morewa and Dargaville

Overview
To develop students with knowledge of conservation values and conservation processes while engaged in practical projects that protect and enhance the environment.

Career Options

• Environmental management labour
• Junior field technician
• Outdoor retail

Admission Information
Entry is open but mobility and some physical fitness is required for full participation in the programme. MSD may fund travel to and from the course for applicants between 16 and 25 years of age.

Qualifications Gained
NT4702 - Northland Polytechnic Certificate in Environmental Studies

Parts of this programme are assessed against National Qualification Framework standards and credit gained for these components will be reported to NZQA.

Certificate in Professional Hunt and Pest Control

Level 3

17 weeks, full time

Whangarei, Kaitaia, Rodney, Kaikohe, Silverdale

Overview
To prepare students to work as a member of a team on hunting and pest control projects.

Career Options

• Pest control
• Hunting contractor

Admission Information
Entry is open but a high level of personal fitness and maturity will be needed to cope with the demands of the programme. You will be required to attend an interview prior to acceptance onto the programme. During the interview you will need to demonstrate that you are a fit and proper person to hold cyanide poison handlers certification. It is desirable for you to have or obtain a firearm license. Students wishing to do this programme extramurally need to be actively engaged in the hunting and pest control industry.

Qualifications Gained
NT4581 - Northland Polytechnic Certificate in Professional Hunting and Pest Control

This programme does not include assessment against National Qualification Framework standards and no credit will be reported to NZQA.

Find out more about NorthTec's Environmental Science programme.