Estimated Key Dates - These dates vary year to year
| 1 August | Applications Close |
| 31 August | Candidates advised |
| Mid September | Deadline for acceptance and payment of $100 deposit |
| 5 October | Application to enrol begins |
| 14 November | Course commences in Christchurch |
| 14 November | Final date to accept offer of enrolment and pay the requried fees. You will not be able to participate in classes until the fees have been paid. It is recommended that you pay your fees as soon as you receive your offer of enrolment. |
23-25 November |
CassField trip |
20 - 30 December |
Antarctic field trip (dates approx) |
| 20 January | Lectures end |
| 17 February | Final project work and reports submitted |
| 19 February | Official course end date (Sunday) |
| 31 March | Results available |