Programme update

(From 30 October 2025)

We have made changes to how you enrol. From February 2026 we will offer monthly start dates for most communication courses in this programme.

New learners

OP701007 Bachelor of Applied Science (Communication and Environment) is closed to new learners. 

For information on available programmes, go to: https://www.openpolytechnic.ac.nz/qualifications-and-courses/.

Update for re-enrolling learners

Learners who were already enrolled in OP701007 Bachelor of Applied Science (Communication and Environment) up to, and including, August 2025, can continue to re-enrol and complete their qualification.

Completing your programme 

We recommend you prioritise completing the environment courses in your programme first as these courses will be phased out over the next five years.  See the table below for the last dates they will be offered.  You will need to enrol and successfully complete the environment courses by the last date they are offered.

You can then complete the remaining courses that make up the 400 credits required to complete the Bachelor of Applied Science (Communication and Environment).

Please note, to be awarded this qualification, you must complete all courses for the programme within 9 years of your first enrolment. If you need more time due to exceptional circumstances, please contact us.

If you need help with a study plan to complete your qualification in this timeframe, please contact us. 

This double major will give you strategic understanding and communication skills. You will be able to analyse and report on environmental issues in the private and public sectors.

It will prepare you for roles in:

• resource management
• policy analysis
• planning
• research management
• corporate communication
• environmental education
• auditing and advocacy.

What you will learn

When you achieve this qualification you will be able to:

• analyse and use information 
• write in a clear and concise way
• communicate effectively at personal, group and organisational levels
• analyse, address and offer practical solutions to complex communication issues
• understand organisational dynamics
• recognise and analyse the causes of environmental problems 
• apply environmental principles and legislation to practical situations involving the protection and use of natural resources
• use policy and management approaches to resolve environmental problems
• identify and put in place effective actions to achieve sustainable environmental outcomes.

PRINZ member cross credit

If you hold the Public Relations Institute’s APR (Accredited in Public Relations) you will be cross-credited for 72180 Introduction to Public Relations.

To find out more:

Contact us 

Visit the PRINZ website