Programme details

Master of Climate Change Science and Policy – MCCSP

The global threat of climate change is both real and urgent. Gain valuable insight into the challenges of climate change in science and policy-making with this multidisciplinary degree.

Course description

Climate change is undeniably one of the greatest challenges our world faces today.

We are already witnessing some of its consequences globally: an increase in extreme weather events, loss of habitable land, and escalating concerns about food security, species loss, and threats to biodiversity.

International agreements strive to keep global warming well below a 2-degree threshold to avoid even more severe repercussions. However, determining how to reduce emissions and adapt to the changes already occurring requires scientists and policy-makers with a comprehensive understanding of both physical sciences and human systems.

The 180-point Master of Climate Change Science and Policy provides you with the essential combination of policy and science knowledge to tackle the real-world problem of climate change. This cross-disciplinary program blends taught courses with a research essay or placement with an external organization.

Immigration benefits

This course qualifies for 5 points if applying for residency under the Skilled Migrant Category.

This course may qualify for the following visa rights:
In-study work rights
Partner visitor rights
Partner work rights
Post-study work rights

Career Prospects

If you aspire to work in policy, iwi development, or NGO advocacy related to climate change, this program will equip you with the skills and knowledge needed to make a significant impact. You’ll also have the option to complete a practicum placement, allowing you to apply your learning in a real-world environment.

Your undergraduate degree could be in science, law, engineering, or the social sciences— a science degree is not required to apply for the Master of Climate Change Science and Policy.

To learn more about career opportunities with the Master of Climate Change Science and Policy, see “What can I do with my degree in Geology and Geophysics.”

Entry requirements

– A bachelor’s degree with at least a B average or equivalent in a relevant subject
– To be accepted by the Programme Director as capable of proceeding with the proposed course of study

EL requirement (any one of the following)
– IELTS (Academic): Minimum overall score of 6.5, with no sub-score below 6.0
– TOEFL (Internet-based test): Minimum score of 90, with at least 20 in writing
– Pearson Test of English: Minimum score of 58, with a ‘Communicative’ score of no less than 50
– EAP:Minimum final scores of 4, 4, 5, 5
– Cambridge English Qualifications: C1 Advanced or C2 Proficiency with a score of 176 or higher, with each skill score no less than 169
– New Zealand Certificates in English Language (NZCEL): Level 5 (Academic)
– NZAPA: English New Zealand Accredited Pathway Assessment Level 3, with no skill lower than Level 2