Lincoln University

What you'll study

This programme combines applied management, planning and sector-specific studies to give you the skills needed to lead recreation services. Core themes include strategic recreation planning, facility and event operations, community and stakeholder engagement, risk and safety management, and evaluation of programmes and services. Teaching typically mixes theory with applied assignments, case studies and a supervised practical placement or capstone project.

• Recreation planning and policy — frameworks for local and regional planning, policy analysis and community needs assessment.
• Facility and event management — operations, maintenance, bookings and programming for indoor and outdoor facilities and events.
• Community development and engagement — working with diverse communities, partnership building and participatory approaches.
• Marketing, finance and governance — business planning, budgeting, fundraising and governance issues affecting recreation providers.
• Risk, health and safety — legal and practical aspects of risk management, safeguarding and emergency planning in recreation settings.
• Research methods and evaluation — applied methods for monitoring, evaluation and continuous improvement of programmes.
• Indigenous and bicultural perspectives — local cultural contexts and tikanga approaches relevant to recreation delivery in New Zealand.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally required to hold a recognised undergraduate degree in a related discipline (for example leisure studies, sport science, health, education, environmental science or business) or an equivalent qualification. Applicants with substantial professional experience in recreation, parks or community services may also be considered; such applicants will be assessed on a case-by-case basis and may be asked to provide a CV and references.

All applicants whose first language is not English must demonstrate English proficiency according to the university's postgraduate English-language requirements. International applicants should check Lincoln University's admissions pages for the specific documentation and evidence required.

Career prospects

Graduates go on to managerial and specialist roles across the public, private and not-for-profit sectors. Typical career destinations include:

• Recreation and leisure centre manager
• Community recreation coordinator or programme developer
• Park and open space manager
• Sports development officer and participation strategist
• Event and festival operations manager
• Facility operations and asset manager
• Policy advisor, consultant or researcher in leisure and wellbeing sectors

Graduates are prepared to work with local and regional councils, iwi and community organisations, private providers, tourism operators and national sport organisations.

Why study at Lincoln University

Lincoln University offers a campus environment closely connected to Aotearoa New Zealand's parks, conservation areas and outdoor recreation settings, which supports applied learning and field-based teaching. The university emphasises practical skills, strong industry links and small cohort teaching, so you can expect applied projects, workplace placements and opportunities to connect with local councils, recreation providers and community groups.

Teaching draws on staff expertise in recreation management, community development and applied research, and the programme includes attention to local cultural contexts and bicultural practice. For professionals seeking to move into leadership roles or to broaden their career options within the leisure and wellbeing sectors, the diploma provides a focused, practice-orientated pathway.