Master of Water Science and Management
- Degree Structure - Start In
- Semester 1 (February)
180
Overview
Master of Water Science and Management
Introduction
The Master of Water Science Management (MWSM) degree is offered in joint partnership between UC and Te Whare Wānaka o Aoraki | Lincoln University, through the Waterways Centre.
This programme prepares you for a professional career in water science and management where you can make a difference in how water is studied, managed, and perceived.
The MWSM is specifically designed to give you practical experience working with industry stakeholders to manage water governance and catchment projects. The Waterways Centre also offers a two-year Master of Science in Water Science Management involving a research thesis designed to build your theoretical and technical skills in water systems.
Master of Water Science and Management
What will my study involve?
- Learn professional skills in managing water resources, projects, and stakeholders with courses designed to help you meet contemporary industry needs.
- Explore Aotearoa's unique history and culture with wai and sustainable efforts across the Pacific.
- Project or internship where you will work directly with communities, mana whenua, and organisations that are part of the water science and management industry. Your project may also help provide answers to gaps in what we understand about water science and management currently.
- Benefit from teaching and research conducted by Waterways Centre.
Master of Water Science and Management
Entry requirements
For entry to the MWSM you will need a bachelor's degree relevant to Water Science and Management, with at least a B Grade Point Average from your final year (or other approved qualifications of an equivalent standard).
If English is your additional language, you are also required to meet UC's English language requirements.
For the full entry requirements, see the Regulations for the Master of Water Science and Management or use the admission requirements checker.
How to apply
Register your interest in the degree by contacting waterways@canterbury.ac.nz.
Master of Water Science and Management
How do I plan my degree?
The MWSM degree is made up of 180 points, with 90 points of compulsory courses, 30 points of electives, and a 60-point project/internship.
The programme is taught by both UC and Lincoln University staff, with lectures hosted on UC's campus. Field and lab work feature throughout the degree.
Study begins in February and can be completed within 1 year full-time, or up to 3 years part-time.
For full requirements, see the Regulations for the Master of Water Science and Management.
Master of Water Science and Management
Subjects and courses
Plus a 60-point project or internship:
If any compulsory courses are not currently offered, please contact a Student Advisor to discuss options.
Elective courses
At least 30 points of courses approved by Kaihautū | Director of the Waterways Centre for Freshwater Management.
For each of your elective options, we encourage you to take electives that match your interests. However, if you are looking for skills-based or generally relevant courses, our recommendations include:
- WATR414 Applied Hydrogeology (highly recommended)
- DRRE402 Natural Hazard Risk Assessment
- ENVR411 Case Studies in Environmental Science
- GEOL493 Unravelling Environmental Histories
- GISC401 Foundations of Geospatial Data Science
- GISC406 Remote Sensing for Earth Observation
- MAOR419 Mātauranga Māori and Science (30 points - please get in touch if you are interested)
Domestic students
2024 tuition fee estimate: $13,736 (180 points)
2025 tuition fee estimate: $14,559 (180 points)
International students
2024 tuition fee estimate: $63,300 (180 points)
2025 tuition fee estimate: $65,700 (180 points)
2026 tuition fee estimate: $67,950 (180 points)
Master of Water Science and Management
Further study
If you complete the MWSM (or all of the courses except the internship/project) with at least a B+ grade average, you may choose to go onto the Master of Science in Water Science and Management and complete an additional thesis year.
UC offers a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Water Resource Management.
Master of Water Science and Management
Career opportunities
The Master of Water Science and Management will prepare you for professional roles in the water sector, handling one of our most precious resources in the world.
With its emphasis on water science and catchment management, you would be prepared for roles in local and regional government, consultancies, non-profit organisations, land management, and entities working in this fast growing sector.
Useful information:
- Read what other UC postgraduate students have gone on to achieve in their studies and careers in our student stories.
- Te Rōpū Rapuara | UC Careers can help you to achieve the career you want, connect with employers, or find a job.
- For research into career destinations by qualification, visit Te Pōkai Tara | Universities New Zealand website.
- Find out more about what can you do with a degree from UC.
- Come along to an upcoming information event for prospective postgraduate students.
