Lincoln University

What you'll study

The programme combines advanced study in agricultural systems with environmental science and resource management. Teaching covers core topics such as soil science, sustainable farm systems, agroecology, environmental monitoring, and the policy and governance of natural resources. Students typically follow a mix of taught modules and a substantial independent research project or applied industry placement.

• Core technical modules — soil health and nutrient management, crop and pasture science, livestock systems, and production economics.
• Environmental and systems modules — agroecology, catchment and watershed management, biodiversity on farms, and environmentally sustainable land use.
• Research, monitoring and data methods — research design, statistics for ecological and agricultural data, GIS and remote sensing for land resource assessment.
• Policy and practice — environmental law and regulation, farm systems optimisation, ecosystem services and valuation, and stakeholder engagement.
• Dissertation or applied project — a supervised research thesis or industry-linked project that applies theory to real-world agricultural and environmental challenges, often making use of field sites or laboratory facilities.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a good undergraduate degree in a relevant discipline such as agriculture, ecology, environmental science, horticulture, or a related bioscience. Applicants with significant relevant professional experience and a lower second-class degree may be considered subject to the programme director's approval. All applicants must provide academic transcripts and referees; a research proposal is usually required for those intending to complete a thesis.

International applicants are required to meet English language proficiency standards set by the university. Depending on the chosen route, additional requirements such as a CV, evidence of practical field or laboratory experience, and an interview may be requested.

Career prospects

Graduates from this programme move into a range of roles that bridge agriculture and environmental management. Typical career paths include:

• environmental or farm management roles within commercial agriculture and agribusiness
• technical advisory and consultancy positions focusing on sustainable production, nutrient management or biodiversity outcomes
• roles in regional and national government agencies involved in land-use planning, resource consent and environmental compliance
• positions with environmental NGOs and industry bodies focused on sustainability, policy development and community engagement
• research and teaching roles in universities and CRIs or specialist provider organisations.

Why study at Lincoln University

Lincoln University is a specialist land-based institution with strong links to the agricultural sector and environmental research organisations. The campus offers direct access to experimental farms, laboratory facilities and field instrumentation that support applied, hands-on learning. The university emphasises interdisciplinary approaches, bringing together soil scientists, ecologists, economists and policy experts to prepare graduates for complex land-use challenges.

Students benefit from industry partnerships and a network of employers across the primary industries, which supports applied project opportunities and career transitions into both the private and public sectors.