Lincoln University

What you'll study

The programme blends core tourism subjects with sustainability, environmental management, business and social science units. You will develop practical and analytical skills through classroom learning, field-based study and an applied final project or industry placement.

• Core tourism principles: introduction to tourism systems, destination management, visitor behaviour and tourism marketing.
• Sustainability and environment: ecology for tourism, environmental impact assessment, climate change and resilience for tourism operations.
• Business and management: fundamentals of management, finance for tourism, strategic planning and entrepreneurship in tourism contexts.
• Policy, governance and Indigenous perspectives: tourism policy and planning, stakeholder engagement, Māori and Indigenous tourism development and Treaty of Waitangi/Treaty principles in practice.
• Practical skills and methods: research methods, GIS and spatial analysis for tourism, visitor monitoring techniques, health and safety for outdoor operations.
• Applied learning: field trips to regional destinations, case studies, project work with industry partners, and a capstone research or practicum placement in a tourism organisation or community setting.

Entry requirements

Entry is typically based on completion of a recognised secondary qualification. Domestic applicants commonly present a national school-leaving certificate at the level required for university entrance; international applicants need an equivalent qualification. English language proficiency is required for applicants whose prior education was not in English.

• Successful completion of a recognised secondary qualification or equivalent tertiary pathway.
• Evidence of English language proficiency where applicable (for example recognised test scores or prior study in English).
• Mature or non‑standard applicants may be considered on the basis of relevant work experience and supporting documentation.
• Some components of the programme include fieldwork; applicants should be fit for outdoor activities and prepared for occasional travel within the region.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for roles that require an understanding of both tourism operations and sustainability. Typical career paths include:

• Destination or regional tourism planning and development roles with councils and tourism organisations.
• Ecotourism and nature-based tourism management, including operators and guides with a sustainability focus.
• Community engagement and Māori/Indigenous tourism development positions.
• Visitor experience and interpretation roles at heritage, conservation and protected area sites.
• Policy and research positions in government agencies, NGOs and consultancies concerned with tourism impacts and resilience.
• Entrepreneurship in sustainable tourism product development and small business management.

Why study at Lincoln University

Lincoln University offers a focused campus environment close to diverse natural and tourism landscapes, enabling field-based learning and strong engagement with regional industry partners. The university has a reputation for applied land- and environment-related research, which informs teaching and provides opportunities for students to work on real-world projects.

• Field-led learning: hands-on field trips and applied projects that connect theory to regional destinations and conservation sites.
• Industry connections: partnerships with local councils, tourism operators and conservation groups for placements and collaborative projects.
• Interdisciplinary teaching: combining business, environmental science and social perspectives to equip graduates for complex sustainability challenges.
• Supportive learning environment: smaller cohort sizes, close supervision for research and capstone projects, and pathways to postgraduate study or professional practice.