Master of Water Science and Management
MWSM
Duration
1 year full-time
Entry times
Semester 1 (February)
Fees Estimate
Scholarships
Pathways
Pathways include:
- Master of Science
- Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
Download Brochure
Duration
1 year full-time
Entry times
Semester 1 (February)
Fees Estimate
Scholarships
Pathways
Pathways include:
- Master of Science
- Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
Download Brochure
Overview
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.
- 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.
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.
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.
Compulsory courses
- WATR405 Research and Communication Methods
- WATR409 Te Mana o te Wai
- WATR410 Catchment Systems
- WATR411 Water Governance
- WATR412 Hydrological Extremes
- WATR413 Freshwater Restoration and Recovery
Plus a 60-point project or internship:
Elective courses
At least 30 points of courses approved by Kaihautū | Director of the Waterways Centre for Freshwater Management.
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.
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 and graduate profiles.
- 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 you can do with a degree from UC.
- Come along to an upcoming information event for prospective postgraduate students.
See Tuition Fee Structure for more information
| Year | Points | Info | Fees (NZD) |
| 2023 | 180 | Fee estimate. Actual fee will be determined by course selection. | $13,362 |
| Year | Points | Info | Fees (NZD) | Fees (NZD) Excl GST |
| 2023 | 180 | $61,500 | $53,478 |
Contact us
For full requirements, see the Regulations for the Master of Water Science and Management.
For study planning help, contact Te Kura Aronukurangi | School of Earth and Environment.
Te Kaupeka Pūtaiao | Faculty of Science
Te Whare Wānanga o Waitaha | University of Canterbury
Private Bag 4800
Christchurch 8140
New Zealand
Phone +64 3 369 4141
Email science@canterbury.ac.nz