QUALIFICATION
Master's Degree (Level 9, 180 credits)
Duration
1.5 years full-time (part-time available)
Location
City Campus (Madras Street), Christchurch, with flexible online learning
Fees
NZD $27,458 per year (2026 indicative, study grant applied; confirm current fee)
Entry Score
IELTS: Academic 6.5 overall (no band lower than 6.0)
Next Intake
February (July also listed in Ara's 2026 fee guide; confirm availability)
Programme Overview
The Master of Sustainable Practice at Ara Institute of Canterbury is an 18-month Level 9 degree for graduates who want to lead sustainability work in their own field.
The programme combines taught courses on sustainability, change and policy with a multidisciplinary project and an applied research project. It is based at the Madras Street campus in Christchurch with flexible online learning.
What You'll Study
- Confronting Sustainability
- Change Agency and Sustainable Practice
- Discipline Specific Special Topic
- Policy and Sustainable Practice
- Research and Inquiry
- Multidisciplinary Sustainable Practice Project
- Applied Research Project
Why Choose This Programme?
- Open to many backgrounds: entry is from a bachelor's degree plus relevant work or professional experience.
- Project-based: includes a multidisciplinary project and an applied research project.
- Flexible delivery: campus study in Christchurch with flexible online learning.
Ready to apply? Book a free consultation, read our study in New Zealand guide or browse all courses.
Career Pathways
| Sector | Roles |
|---|---|
| Sustainability roles | Sustainability advisor or manager, environmental health and safety advisor. |
| Policy and community | Policy advisor, community development advisor, strategy and planning advisor. |
| Leadership and change | Project or programme manager, organisational change specialist, team leader. |
Entry Requirements
- A bachelor's degree plus relevant work or professional experience, or a relevant postgraduate diploma, or a bachelor honours degree.
- English: IELTS (Academic) 6.5 overall with no band lower than 6.0, or equivalent.
- Need help with your English test? See our IELTS and PTE coaching.
Related Links
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