Lincoln University

What you'll study

This one‑year (full‑time equivalent) graduate diploma provides a coherent set of advanced undergraduate and introductory postgraduate courses that cover core areas of agricultural science and farm system management. The programme combines taught coursework, practical field-based components and project work to develop both theoretical understanding and applied skills.

• Soil science and nutrient management – soil properties, fertility assessment, effluent and nutrient budgeting, and best practice for sustainable soil use.
• Crop and pasture production – principles of plant growth, pasture species selection, forage management, cropping systems and strategies for maximising feed production.
• Animal production systems – fundamentals of ruminant and non-ruminant production, reproductive and health management, animal welfare and productivity measurement.
• Farm systems and integrated management – whole‑farm planning, benchmarking, risk management, and systems thinking to optimise profitability and environmental outcomes.
• Agribusiness and farm finance – basics of farm economics, enterprise budgeting, commodity marketing and value‑chain considerations for primary producers.
• Sustainability, environmental regulation and biosecurity – on‑farm environmental management, freshwater and biodiversity matters, and biosecurity principles relevant to primary industries.
• Research methods and data analysis – experimental design, statistics for agricultural research and skills in interpreting farm data for decision making.
• Practical farm placement or capstone project – an applied project or short work placement on research or commercial farms to consolidate learning and demonstrate competence.

Entry requirements

Applicants are typically expected to hold a recognised bachelor's degree (or equivalent) from a recognised tertiary institution. Candidates with degrees in science, commerce, environmental studies or related disciplines are well placed to succeed, while applicants from non‑related backgrounds may be considered if they can demonstrate relevant work experience or academic preparation.

• Academic transcript demonstrating a completed bachelor’s degree or equivalent.
• Curriculum vitae outlining relevant work or practical experience in primary production, horticulture, environmental management or related areas (where applicable).
• References or referee contact details that can attest to the applicant’s academic ability or professional suitability.
• International applicants must meet the university’s English language proficiency requirements.

Meeting minimum entry requirements does not guarantee admission; where competition is strong, places are offered on the basis of academic merit and the relevance of prior experience. Some applicants may be required to complete additional preparatory courses before full admission.

Career prospects

Graduates of the Graduate Diploma in Agricultural Science move into a range of practical and advisory roles across the primary sector. The qualification is aimed at providing the technical grounding sought by employers in farming, agribusiness and rural support services.

• Farm manager or assistant farm manager on dairy, sheep, beef or mixed farms.
• Agricultural consultant or farm advisor providing technical guidance on soils, pasture, animal health and productivity.
• Roles in agribusiness companies, input suppliers, seed and feed firms, and commodity marketing organisations.
• Positions in government or regional councils focusing on biosecurity, environmental compliance and rural extension.
• Research assistant roles in applied agricultural research groups or progression to further postgraduate study in agriculture or related disciplines.

Why study at Lincoln University

Lincoln University has a long tradition of specialist education in land‑based sciences and strong links with New Zealand’s primary industries. Its campus and teaching emphasise practical, field‑based learning in the Canterbury Plains and nearby research farms, giving students direct exposure to contemporary farming systems and technologies.

• Specialist facilities and access to experimental farms and laboratories that support hands‑on learning.
• Close connections with regional industry, enabling workplace placements, guest lectures and networking with employers in agriculture and agribusiness.
• A curriculum informed by applied research and practical industry needs, with emphasis on sustainability, productivity and innovation in the primary sector.
• Support services for postgraduate students, including academic advising, career guidance and opportunities to progress to higher degrees in agricultural science or related fields.