Lincoln University

What you'll study

The Individual Major is a flexible, student-designed pathway within the Bachelor of Science that enables you to build a concentrated programme of study around a specific scientific theme. You typically begin with a broad first-year foundation in core science skills such as academic writing for scientists, quantitative methods, introductory statistics, and fundamental laboratory and field techniques.

From the second year you select a coherent suite of subject papers drawn from Lincoln’s offerings to form your major. Typical subject areas students combine include:

• Environmental science and ecology (ecosystem processes, conservation biology, restoration ecology)
• Soil and plant sciences (soil chemistry, plant physiology, crop production)
• Animal biology and welfare (animal physiology, livestock systems)
• Geospatial science and remote sensing (GIS, spatial analysis)
• Data science and statistics for the natural sciences (applied statistics, programming for data analysis)
• Microbiology and molecular biology (environmental microbiology, molecular techniques)
• Agribusiness and natural resource management (sustainable land use, policy and economics)

The programme emphasises research skills: you will take coursework in research design and data analysis and can usually include a substantial research project or capstone in your final year. Practical learning is a strong feature, with laboratory work, field trips to local ecosystems and experimental farms, and opportunities to use Lincoln’s research facilities and instrumentation.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold university entrance from their national qualification system (for example New Zealand University Entrance via NCEA Level 3) or an equivalent secondary school qualification such as A-levels or the International Baccalaureate. Typical subject prerequisites depend on your chosen major content but commonly include one or more of biology, chemistry, mathematics or statistics at senior secondary level.

International applicants must meet Lincoln University’s academic equivalency requirements and demonstrate English language proficiency (for example by an accepted test or prior study in English). Mature applicants with relevant work experience or prior tertiary study may be considered on an alternative entry basis.

Career prospects

Graduates with an Individual Major BSc have versatile career options because the degree can be tailored to employer needs. Common career paths include:

• Environmental consultant or conservation practitioner in government agencies, iwi organisations, NGOs or private consultancies
• Soil scientist, agronomist or farm/environmental advisor working with primary industry
• Data analyst or GIS specialist applying spatial and quantitative skills to natural‑resource problems
• Laboratory technologist or research assistant in universities, CRIs or private research providers
• Biosecurity officer, environmental policy advisor or resource management practitioner

The degree also provides a pathway to postgraduate study (such as honours, MSc or professional qualifications) for careers in research, teaching or specialised technical roles.

Why study at Lincoln University

Lincoln is New Zealand’s specialist land‑based university, offering concentrated expertise in agriculture, environmental science and resource management. The campus has strong links to industry and research organisations, which creates regular opportunities for field placements, internships and project partnerships that enhance employability.

Study at Lincoln emphasises applied, hands‑on learning: you will benefit from small class sizes, extensive fieldwork, specialist laboratories and access to experimental farms and environmental observatories. The Individual Major is particularly well suited to students who want an interdisciplinary, career‑focused science degree tailored to contemporary challenges in sustainability, food systems and environmental stewardship.