Lincoln University

What you'll study

The programme combines core management topics with tourism-focused modules to develop applied skills in planning, marketing and sustainable practice. Teaching blends lectures, case studies, fieldwork and industry projects to reflect real-world tourism operations.

• Tourism Management and Policy – governance, regulation and strategic planning for destinations and organisations.
• Sustainable and Responsible Tourism – environmental, cultural and social sustainability, including principles of community engagement and conservation-based tourism.
• Tourism Marketing and Digital Channels – market segmentation, branding, distribution and use of digital tools for visitor engagement.
• Events and Experience Management – designing and managing visitor experiences, events planning and operational logistics.
• Hospitality Operations and Customer Service – service quality, revenue management and front-line operations relevant to accommodation and tourism businesses.
• Māori and Indigenous Tourism – understanding indigenous perspectives, cultural protocols and opportunities for authentic, community-led tourism.
• Research Methods and Professional Project – applied research skills and a capstone project or industry placement that integrates learning with an employer brief or field-based study.

The programme is typically offered as an intensive full-time option with part-time study available for working professionals. Assessment commonly includes essays, industry reports, presentations, project work and reflective portfolios.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a recognised bachelor’s degree in any discipline, or demonstrate equivalent professional experience in tourism, hospitality, events or related industries. Selection may take into account recent work experience, a CV and a personal statement outlining motivations and career goals.

International applicants who do not have previous tertiary study taught in English will be required to demonstrate English language proficiency through an approved test or equivalent evidence. Applicants with non-standard backgrounds may be considered and could be interviewed or required to undertake bridging study.

Career prospects

Graduates gain skills relevant to managerial and specialist roles across the tourism and events sectors. Typical career pathways include:

• Destination and regional tourism manager
• Tourism marketing and digital communications officer
• Events manager and conference organiser
• Product developer or experience designer for tours and attractions
• Sustainability or community engagement advisor in tourism businesses and local government
• Operations manager in accommodation, transport or visitor centres
• Consultant or policy analyst in tourism development organisations

Many graduates also use the Graduate Diploma as a stepping stone to postgraduate research or a specialised master’s degree in tourism, sustainable development or business.

Why study at Lincoln University

Lincoln University is known for applied, industry-connected programmes with a strong emphasis on land, environment and regional development, making it well placed to teach tourism in a context that links conservation, rural economies and visitor experiences. Small class sizes and strong staff access allow close student–supervisor engagement for projects and placements.

The university’s location provides proximity to a range of tourism environments—from urban gateways to rural and conservation-based attractions—supporting field-based learning and employer partnerships. Students benefit from established links with regional tourism agencies, iwi and industry partners, which help secure guest lectures, placements and project briefs that are grounded in New Zealand practice and global trends in sustainable tourism.