Careers in conservation

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, NorthTec's Environmental Science courses are for you.

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! 

NorthTec's Environmental Science 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

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
• Biosecurity Officer
• Restoration Ecology
• Conservation Officer
• Ecology Consultant
• 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 it is recommended that they 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 for whom English is not their first language require a minimum IELTS score of 6.0.

Qualifications Gained

Northland Polytechnic Diploma in Conservation and Environmental Management

Certificate in Conservation and Environmental Management

Level 5 - 34 weeks, full time - Whangarei

Overview
To introduce students to ecological and resource management principles underlying contemporary environmental issues.

Career Options

• Ranger Assistant
• Junior Field Technician
• Trainee Environmental Advisor

Admission Information
NCEA Level 2 with 14 or more NCEA Level 2 credits in geography and/or a science

Qualifications Gained
Northland Polytechnic Certificate in Conservation and Environmental Management

Certificate in Professional Hunting and Pest Control

Level 3 - 19  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 /Weed Control Contractor
• Hunting Tour Guide
• Bush man
• Vegetation monitoring for Councils
• Private Pest Controller
• Biosecurity Officer

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.

Applicants for whom English is not their first language require a minimum IELTS score of 5.5.

Qualifications Gained
Northland Polytechnic Certificate in Professional Hunting and Pest Control

Certificate in Marine Adventure and Eco-Tourism

Level 4 - 1 year, full time - Kerikeri

Overview
Students will develop skills suitable for the marine eco-tourism industry through a range of practical and theoretical based learning. To equip students for careers in the outdoor recreation and maritime tourism area.

Career Options

• Tour guide
• School environmental co-ordinator
• Marine tourist co-ordinator
• Crew for tourist operator

Admission Information
Entry is open but mobility and a high level of fitness is required for full participation in the programme. You will be required to attend an interview prior to acceptance on the programme.

Applicants for whom English is not their first language require a minimum IELTS score of 5.5.

Qualifications Gained
Northland Polytechnic Certificate in Marine Adventure and Eco-Tourism

Find out more about NorthTec's Environmental Science programme.