A way through the biodiversity crisis
When you study Ecology, you’ll explore the rich diversity of the world’s organisms, the threats their ecosystems face, and what humans can do to help them survive.
With our planet facing a biodiversity crisis, it’s vital that we understand, support, and conserve the diversity of life on Earth.
You’ll learn about the evolution and genetics of life on our planet, the complexities of various ecosystems across the world, and the causes and effects of the biodiversity crisis. Analyse the effects of climate change on plants and animals, and methods for biodiversity conservation and preservation.
Study in a green centre of conservation
When you study in Wellington, you’ll be surrounded by native biodiversity and sanctuaries close to the city centre that harbour renowned conservation initiatives. Visit:
- Matiu Somes Island
- Ōtari-Wilton’s Bush
- Kapiti Island Nature Reserve
- Zealandia Te Māra a Tāne.
Wellington is also close to North Island’s national parks, such as Taranaki, Tongariro, and Whanganui.
Choose your study path
You can major in Ecology and Biodiversity with the Bachelor of Science (BSc).
You could also choose to study Ecology and Biodiversity as a minor in the BSc, or combine it with another subject as a double major or a conjoint degree.
Our flexible study page defines double majors and conjoint degrees and offers a list of subjects you can combine when you study.
Degree support and advice
We can help you match your interests and career goals with the right course of study.
If you’re a new student, talk to a Future Student Adviser.
If you’re already studying with us, talk to Tītoko—Student Success.
Study options
Find out how you can study Ecology and Biodiversity at Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington.
Future careers
Ecology and Biodiversity is a growing area of employment in New Zealand and overseas. While you will likely need a postgraduate qualification to pursue a career in scientific research, there are many other areas where a graduate in Ecology and Biodiversity will thrive.
Potential industries
With a background in Ecology and Biodiversity, you could work in areas like:
- conservation
- environmental science
- biodiversity management
- ecotourism
- public policy.
More career information
Find out more about careers on our 'What can I do with my degree' page for Marine Biology, Ecology and Biodiversity.
The government careers website, Tahatū, also offers information about jobs, salaries, and current opportunities.
Scholarships
You may be able to get a scholarship to help fund your studies.
We have first-year and school-leaver scholarships available, as well as specialised scholarships for different groups and subject areas. If nothing fits right now, something may suit you later.
We encourage you to apply. It’s a straightforward process, and it could make a real difference.
Scholarships for teachers
TeachNZ offers scholarships if you enrol in an approved undergraduate or graduate teaching course.
Scholarships for Ecology and Biodiversity
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Applicants must be of Pacific descent, be enrolled, or intending to enrol, in undergraduate or postgraduate studies, majoring in one or more of the following areas: Climate Change Science and Policy, Conservation Biology, Ecological Restoration, Ecology and Biodiversity, Environmental Science, Environmental Studies, Marine Biology, or Marine Conservation, and have a minimum GPA of GPA of 6.5. Applicants may be studying...
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The fund, which was established at the time of the renovation of the C3 lecture theatre, is to assist a second-year student from any faculty in their studies at Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington
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Applicants must be female, New Zealand or Canadian citizens studying full time at 300 level BSc (Hons) and Master's by Coursework in any area of Science, including Architecture and Design at Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington.
Scholarships for international students
We are currently offering a NZ$15,000 VUW Undergraduate International Scholarship to all eligible international students enrolling in a Bachelor’s degree.
Your scholarship will be processed automatically when your programme application is accepted, and the amount will be deducted from your tuition fees.
Other scholarships
We also offer specialised scholarships for different groups and subject areas. If nothing fits right now, something may suit you later.
We encourage you to apply. It’s a straightforward process, and it could make a real difference.
Scholarships for Ecology and Biodiversity
-
Applicants must be of Pacific descent, be enrolled, or intending to enrol, in undergraduate or postgraduate studies, majoring in one or more of the following areas: Climate Change Science and Policy, Conservation Biology, Ecological Restoration, Ecology and Biodiversity, Environmental Science, Environmental Studies, Marine Biology, or Marine Conservation, and have a minimum GPA of GPA of 6.5. Applicants may be studying...
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Applicants must be female, New Zealand or Canadian citizens studying full time at 300 level BSc (Hons) and Master's by Coursework in any area of Science, including Architecture and Design at Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington.
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Applicants must be enrolled or intending to enrol in a Master's of PhD programme in the Faculty of Science and Engineering, undertaking research in any aspect of biodiversity and restoration ecology, including the use of novel technologies. Preference will be given to applicants from the School of Biological Sciences and the School of Geography, Environment and Earth Sciences.
Postgraduate study
Once you’ve completed your BSc, you can choose a postgraduate qualification to develop your skills further. If you want to work as a scientist, a postgraduate degree is often crucial.
If you get good results in your undergraduate study, you could go on to an Honours degree. This is 1 year of advanced study that lets you research in your area of scientific interest.
If you want to do independent research, you could also study for a Master’s degree or a PhD.
By taking postgraduate study with us, you’ll join a talented team of internationally recognised researchers doing innovative work.
Get help to manage your finances
We can help you:
- budget your money
- manage your student loan or allowance
- work out your accommodation payment schedule.
If you're facing financial difficulties, we can help you apply for the Hardship Fund.
You may be eligible for government or community support, too.
Wellington Global Exchange
If you're a current student at Victoria University of Wellington, you can complete part of your degree overseas. Choose from our 140 partner universities worldwide.
Study Abroad and Exchange Programme
If you're an overseas student, you can spend a trimester or a year at Victoria University of Wellington. You'll earn credits at your home university while you study here.