New Zealand Certificate in Conservation (Operations) (Level 4)

Program Overview

The New Zealand Certificate in Conservation (Operations) Level 4 equips individuals with practical skills and knowledge for operational conservation work, focusing on ecological restoration and understanding ecological environments. The program emphasizes hands-on learning, industry experience, and incorporates Mātauranga Māori perspectives, preparing graduates for careers in conservation, including conservation technician, field ranger, and environmental consultant.

Program Outline

Degree Overview

Overview:

The New Zealand Certificate in Conservation (Operations) Level 4 is a program designed to equip individuals with the practical skills and knowledge needed for operational conservation work.

• Prepare participants for practical conservation in the context of ecological restoration.
• Enhance participants' understanding of the ecological environment.
• Equip participants with the tools and skills to investigate ecosystems and deliver strong conservation outcomes.
• Prepare participants to actively participate in the preservation of wāhi tapu and taonga tūturu by understanding the significant tikanga associated with a site according to tangata whenua.

Program Description:

• The program encompasses a diverse range of modules, including New Zealand Ecology and Wāhi Tapu, Mātauranga Māori, Weed Management, Vehicle Handling, Kaitiakitanga and Rangatiratanga, Risk Assessment and Conservation Technology, Communications and Legislation, Animal Pest Trapping, and Chainsaws and Construction.
• The program requires 41 weeks of full-time study, including 7 holiday weeks.
• Each week, participants typically engage in 24 hours of class time (in-person, online, and in-work), 6 hours of industry experience (work placement), and 10 hours of independent study.

Outline

Program Content:

• The program focuses on ecological restoration, covering topics such as:
• Basic principles of ecology
• Plant identification
• Wāhi tapu and taonga tūturu significance and management
• Weed control methods
• Safe and efficient vehicle handling
• Kaitiakitanga and Rangatiratanga principles
• Risk assessment and management
• Conservation technology
• Animal pest trapping
• Chainsaw operation and maintenance

Program Structure:

• The program is delivered over 41 weeks, including 7 holiday weeks.
• Each week consists of approximately 24 hours of class time, 6 hours of industry experience, and 10 hours of independent study.
• The program is comprised of the following modules:
• New Zealand Ecology and Wāhi Tapu (20 credits)
• Mātauranga Māori (15 credits)
• Weed Management (10 credits)
• Vehicle Handling (15 credits)
• Kaitiakitanga and Rangatiratanga (10 credits)
• Risk Assessment and Conservation Technology (10 credits)
• Communications and Legislation (15 credits)
• Animal Pest Trapping (10 credits)
• Mātauranga Māori: This module explores whānau, hapū, and iwi systems, whakataukī/whakatauāki application in conservation, tūrangawaewae concept, tikanga application in various settings, and pepeha and waiata presentation.
• Weed Management: This module focuses on weed control methods, monitoring principles, reporting, and understanding relevant legislation and regulations.
• Kaitiakitanga and Rangatiratanga: This module explains legal provisions supporting whānau, hapū, and iwi in managing te Taiao, defines rangatiratanga and kaitiakitanga in conservation practice, and explores kaupapa Māori principles in conservation.
• Communications and Legislation: This module assists participants in selecting appropriate communication and presentation methods, identifying stakeholders and their priorities, applying relevant conservation legislation, data collection and analysis, and conservation philosophy understanding.
• Chainsaws and Construction: This module covers the use and maintenance of small powered equipment, remote site construction and repair, chainsaw operation, and relevant Approved Code of Practice understanding.

Assessment

Assessment Methods:

• The program utilizes a variety of assessment methods, including:
• Assignments
• Projects
• Presentations
• Practical demonstrations
• Examinations

Assessment Criteria:

• The program's assessment criteria are based on the learning outcomes for each module.
These criteria typically include:
• Knowledge and understanding of the subject matter
• Practical skills and abilities
• Critical thinking and problem-solving skills
• Communication and presentation skills
• Teamwork and collaboration skills
• Cultural awareness and sensitivity

Teaching

Teaching Methods:

• The program utilizes a variety of teaching methods, including:
• Lectures
• Tutorials
• Practical exercises
• Field trips
• Guest lectures
• Online learning resources

Faculty:

• The program is taught by experienced and qualified professionals with expertise in conservation, ecology, and related fields.

Unique Approaches:

• The program emphasizes a hands-on and practical approach to learning, with a strong focus on industry experience and work placement.
• The program incorporates Mātauranga Māori perspectives and practices, ensuring participants gain a holistic understanding of conservation in Aotearoa New Zealand.

Careers

Career Paths:

• The program prepares participants for a variety of careers in conservation, including:
• Conservation technician
• Field ranger
• Pest control operator
• Environmental consultant
• Restoration ecologist
• Park ranger
• Wildlife biologist

Career Opportunities:

• The program enhances participants' job prospects within government agencies, private conservation organizations, and research institutions.
• The program also provides participants with the skills and knowledge to start their own conservation businesses.

Career Outcomes:

• Graduates of the program consistently secure employment in the conservation sector, with many progressing to leadership and management roles.

Other

Entry Requirements:

• Achieved NCEA Level 2 (credits in Numeracy, Science or English desirable)
• Certificate in Introductory Conservation (Te Kura Tapere), Level 3
• Equivalent Academic Achievement
• English language proficiency (IELTS 5.5 or equivalent)

Fees:

• Domestic students: $6,721.00
• International students: $25,000.00 + Student Services Levy $591.00
• The program is approved by the New Zealand Qualifications Authority under the Education and Training Act 2020.