The Master of Science (MSc) programme enables you to pursue advanced study in your area of interest with the opportunity to work on independent research. Programme overview Studying for an MSc is an opportunity for committed scientists to focus on a relevant area of interest or practise and pursue an advanced qualification. While taught masters will provide you with specialist training in your chosen field, a research masters will develop advanced research skills, working alongside Faculty of Science researchers - many of whom are major contributors in their field. 120-point MSc Most students enter an MSc following completion of a PGDipSci. You will need to complete 120 points (maximum of 160 points) in a specialisation within one year of full-time study or two years of part-time study (research masters) or four years of part-time study (taught masters). Not all specialisations offer both taught and research options. 240-point MSc If you enter a MSc directly from an undergraduate degree you will need to complete 240 points (maximum of 280 points) in a specialisation in two years of full-time study or four years of part-time study (research masters) or six years of part-time study (taught masters). Not all specialisations offer both taught and research options. Biosecurity and Conservation Biosecurity and Conservation is about the management of the natural environment to protect it from biosecurity threats. If you are a Master of Science (MSc) student, research interests open to exploration include: Comparative stress physiology of grey-faced petrels Improving outcomes for water quality monitoring in Samoa via environmental DNA The impact of hedgehogs on urban forest fragments The ecological relationship between Cook’s scurvy grass (Lepidium oleraceum s.s.) and seabirds The legacy effect of soil conditions on ecological restoration of retired pastures The spatial extent of biodiversity outcomes from mammalian predator pest management The establishment and dispersal of invasive insects Impacts of introduced herbivores on sand dune restoration Estimating a damage function for feral pig impacts The importance of invertebrates in decomposing coarse woody debris Trophic interactions between geckos and honeydew-producing scale insects Pollination ecology of native New Zealand orchids and the role of introduced species Potential opportunities for our graduates include employment throughout the biosecurity and conservation sector. Jobs related to Biosecurity and Conservation Biodiversity ranger Biosecurity officer Biosecurity or biodiversity technical advisor Environmental officer Environmental scientist Incursion response investigator Museum collections technician Operations manager Pest control technician Research technician Researcher Science communicator