Lincoln University

What you'll study

The Honours year builds on undergraduate commerce study by emphasising advanced theory, applied research skills and specialist discipline knowledge. Typical components include a combination of:

• Advanced core topics – in areas such as managerial economics, corporate finance, strategic management, and advanced accounting depending on your chosen pathway.
• Research methods and econometrics – training in quantitative and qualitative methods, data analysis, and empirical techniques required to undertake an honours research project.
• Specialist electives – higher-level modules in subjects such as agribusiness management, marketing strategy, financial modelling, taxation, international business, or sustainability in business.
• Honours research project – an independent supervised dissertation or applied research project that develops subject-specific expertise and demonstrates the ability to carry out scholarly inquiry.

Delivery typically combines seminars, research workshops, case studies and a substantial supervised research component. The programme emphasises applied problems and links to industry where appropriate, reflecting Lincoln’s strengths in primary-sector and resource-based commerce.

Entry requirements

Admission to the Honours programme normally requires completion of a relevant bachelor’s degree with a strong academic record. Applicants are generally expected to have achieved a high level of performance in second- and third-year commerce courses (for example a specified GPA or class of degree as set by the university) and to demonstrate appropriate background in the chosen honours discipline.

Specific requirements vary by pathway and may include prerequisite subjects (for instance intermediate accounting for an accounting honours stream or intermediate microeconomics for an economics-related stream). Prospective students with equivalent professional experience or alternative qualifications should contact the faculty for advice on eligibility and any bridging requirements.

Career prospects

Graduates of the Bachelor of Commerce with Honours are well placed for a range of professional roles and further study. Common career destinations include:

• Professional accounting and finance roles in practice and industry (subject to professional body accreditation pathways where applicable).
• Business analyst, management consultant and strategic planner roles across sectors including agribusiness, manufacturing, retail and services.
• Marketing and product management positions focused on strategy and research-driven decision making.
• Policy analyst or advisor roles in government and regulatory agencies, particularly in areas connected to primary industries and resource management.
• Progression to postgraduate study (Master’s by research or PhD) for careers in research, higher education or specialist consultancy.

Why study at Lincoln University

Lincoln University combines a focused, collegial campus environment with strong ties to New Zealand’s primary industries and business communities. The university is known for research and teaching strengths in agribusiness, sustainability and resource economics, providing honours students with opportunities to work on applied problems important to regional and national industry partners.

Students benefit from smaller class sizes, close supervision for research projects, and access to specialised research centres and industry networks. The programme is designed to develop both rigorous analytical skills and practical, workplace-relevant capabilities, preparing graduates for immediate professional roles or further academic study.