Study Agriculture In New Zealand
Want to study agriculture in New Zealand? This guide walks you through your options. If you're ready for personalised advice, you can also talk to our IDP counsellors.
New Zealand is known around the world for agriculture.
You can study everything from agricultural science to dairy farming, horticulture and more.
Now, you may be wondering:
What are your course options depending on area of study or qualification level?
What happens after you graduate?
Can it help you build a residency pathway?
This guide will answer all these for you!
If you have specific questions or if you're ready to apply, our IDP counsellors are here to guide you.
Can studying agriculture in New Zealand lead to PR?
Yes, studying agriculture may help you build a pathway towards residence in New Zealand, but it does not guarantee PR.
One possible pathway is the Green List Work to Residence visa.
Some dairy farming jobs are Tier 2 Green List roles. These include
Dairy Farm Manager
Dairy Cattle Farm Manager
Dairy Cattle Farmer
Dairy Herd Manager
Agriculture courses in New Zealand for international students
You can study many areas of agriculture in New Zealand. Your options include agricultural science, agribusiness, farm management, dairy farming, horticulture and animal science.
Agricultural Science
Learn about crops, soil, animals and farming systems. This can lead to careers in agricultural science, research or farm advice.
Agribusiness
Learn how the business side of agriculture works. You may study finance, marketing and farm business management. Careers can include agribusiness, farm management and agricultural consulting.
Farm Management
Learn how to manage the day-to-day work of a farm. This can include livestock, crops, farm planning and production. You could work towards roles in farm or livestock management.
Dairy Farming and Dairy Technology
Learn about dairy production, livestock and farm systems. This can prepare you for roles in dairy farming, herd management and dairy farm management.
Horticulture
Learn how to grow and manage plants, fruit and crops. You can build skills for careers in horticulture, crop production and farm management.
Animal Science
Learn about animal health, nutrition, breeding and production. This can lead to careers in livestock production, animal science and farm management.
Good to know: Your qualification level can affect your options after study.
Level 7 bachelor's degrees can qualify for a Post Study Work Visa for up to 3 years.
Some non-degree qualifications in agriculture, farm management and dairy farming may also qualify.
Where can you study agriculture in New Zealand?
You can study agriculture at universities and institutes across New Zealand. Some options include Lincoln University, Massey University, the University of Canterbury, Wintec and the Southern Institute of Technology.
Course | University | Annual Fees (NZD) | Duration | NZQA Level |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Bachelor of Agricultural Science | Massey University | 35,000–42,000 | 3 Years | Level 7 |
Bachelor of AgriBusiness | Massey University | 34,000–40,000 | 3 Years | Level 7 |
Bachelor of Horticulture | Massey University | 33,000–39,000 | 3 Years | Level 7 |
Bachelor of Agriculture | University of Waikato | 34,000–40,000 | 3 Years | Level 7 |
Bachelor of Business (Agribusiness) | University of Waikato | 38,000 | 3 Years | Level 7 |
Bachelor of Agricultural Science | Lincoln University | 36,000–42,000 | 4 Years | Level 7 |
Bachelor of Horticultural Science | Lincoln University | 36,000–42,000 | 3 Years | Level 7 |
Bachelor of Viticulture & Oenology | Lincoln University | 38,000–46,000 | 4 Years | Level 7 |
Master of Agricultural Science | Lincoln University | 40,000–48,000 | 1–2 Years | Level 9 |
Postgraduate Diploma in Agricultural Science | Massey University | 36,000–42,000 | 1 Year | Level 8 |
Bachelor of Applied Science (Agriculture) | Southern Institute of Technology (SIT) | 22,000–28,000 | 3 Years | Level 7 |
Bachelor of Horticulture | Otago Polytechnic | 25,000–30,000 | 3 Years | Level 7 |
Not sure which agriculture course is right for you?
An IDP counsellor can help you compare courses, fees and scholarships. We can also help you find a course that fits your career and long-term migration goals.
How do you choose the right agriculture course?
Choose an agriculture course based on:
what you want to study
the career you want
your plans after graduation.
It also helps to compare the course level, practical training and post-study work options.
Think about the agriculture career you want
Start with the type of work you want to do. For example, agricultural science, farm management and animal science can lead to very different careers.
Check the qualification level
You can study agriculture at different qualification levels. Your options may include:
Certificates – for practical and entry-level agriculture skills
Diplomas – for more specialised or technical skills
Bachelor's degrees – for broader and more advanced agriculture study
Postgraduate courses – for further study or specialisation
Compare practical and industry experience
Look for courses with hands-on training, placements or industry projects. These can help you build practical skills and work experience.
Check your post-study work options
Some qualifications may make you eligible for a Post Study Work Visa. Check the current visa rules before you choose your course.
Consider your long-term migration plans
If you hope to stay in New Zealand, think about migration early. Your course alone cannot guarantee PR, but your study and career choices can affect the pathways you may have later.
What are the entry requirements for agriculture courses in New Zealand?
Entry requirements depend on the agriculture course and institution you choose. You will usually need to meet academic and English language requirements. Some courses may also have extra requirements.
Academic requirements
Your requirements will depend on the level you want to study.
Certificates: You may need to have completed secondary school. Some practical courses may have more flexible entry requirements.
Diplomas: You will usually need to have completed secondary school or an accepted equivalent qualification.
Bachelor's degrees: You will need a qualification that meets New Zealand university entrance standards. Some agriculture degrees may also require or recommend subjects such as maths or science.
Postgraduate courses: You will usually need a bachelor's degree. For some courses, your previous degree must be in agriculture, science or a related field.
English language requirements
You may need to prove your English skills before you can enrol. IELTS Academic is accepted by many New Zealand institutions.
As a general guide:
Certificates and diplomas: around IELTS 5.5 overall
Bachelor's degrees: around IELTS 6.0 overall
Postgraduate courses: around IELTS 6.5 overall
Some courses may also set a minimum score for each IELTS skill. Always check the exact requirement for your course.
Prepare for IELTS.
Book IELTS.
Additional course requirements
Some courses have requirements beyond your grades and English score. You may need specific school subjects, relevant work experience or extra application documents.
This is more common for advanced or specialised courses. Check these requirements early, so you know what you need before you apply.
Not sure if you meet the requirements?
An IDP counsellor can check your qualifications, grades and English score against your course options. We can also help you find courses you qualify for and guide you through your application.
How much does it cost to study agriculture in New Zealand?
The cost of studying agriculture in New Zealand depends on your course, study level and institution. International students can generally expect to pay around NZ$25,000 to NZ$55,000 per year in tuition fees, with postgraduate courses often costing more.
What jobs can you get after studying agriculture in New Zealand?
An agriculture qualification can lead to careers in farming, science, business, food production and animal care. Your career options will depend on your course, skills and experience.
Some jobs you could explore include:
Agricultural Scientist – studies crops, soil, farming systems and ways to improve production.
Farm Manager – manages farm operations, workers, livestock and production.
Agribusiness Manager – manages the business and financial side of agriculture.
Agricultural Consultant – helps farmers and agriculture businesses improve their operations.
Dairy Farm Manager – manages dairy production, livestock and day-to-day farm work.
Horticulture Manager – manages the growing and production of plants, fruit or crops.
Precision Agriculture Specialist – uses data and technology to improve farming.
Animal or Livestock Specialist – works with animal health, nutrition, breeding and production.
What are your PR pathways after studying agriculture?
After studying agriculture, you may be able to explore a skilled residence pathway in New Zealand.
Your options will depend on your qualification, job, work experience and whether you meet the visa rules.
Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa
The Skilled Migrant Category uses a points system. You may earn points from your New Zealand qualification, skilled work and other factors.
You need at least 6 points to apply. The number of points you can claim from your qualification depends on its level.
Green List pathways
Some agriculture-related jobs are on New Zealand's Green List.
Tier 1 roles may offer a Straight to Residence pathway. One example related to the agriculture and food sector is:
Food Technologist
Tier 2 roles may offer a Work to Residence pathway after you complete the required skilled work in New Zealand. These include some dairy farming roles, such as:
Assistant Dairy Farm Manager
Dairy Cattle Farm Manager
Dairy Cattle Farmer
Dairy Farm Manager
Dairy Herd Manager
You will still need to meet the requirements for your Green List role and residence visa.
Why your agriculture course matters
Your course can affect the work and visa options you have after graduation. Some qualifications may make you eligible for a Post Study Work Visa and help you move into skilled work.
If migration is part of your long-term plan, our MARA-registered migration agents can help you understand your visa options, assess potential PR pathways and plan your next steps based on your circumstances.
Not sure which agriculture course is right for you?
IDP can help you compare your options and plan your next steps.
We can help you:
compare agriculture courses and institutions
check entry requirements
compare tuition fees and scholarships
apply for your chosen course
understand your study and post-study options
plan your next steps based on your goals
Frequently asked questions about studying agriculture in New Zealand
Is New Zealand good for studying agriculture?
Yes. New Zealand has a strong agriculture industry and offers many agriculture courses. You can study areas like agricultural science, agribusiness, dairy farming, horticulture and animal science.
Can international students study agriculture in New Zealand?
Yes. International students can study agriculture at universities and institutes across New Zealand. You will need to meet the entry requirements for your chosen course.
Which agriculture course is best in New Zealand?
The best agriculture course depends on your career goals. You can choose from areas like agricultural science, agribusiness, farm management, dairy farming, horticulture and animal science.
How much does it cost to study agriculture in New Zealand?
Tuition fees depend on your course and institution. International students can generally expect to pay around NZ$25,000 to NZ$55,000 per year.
How long does it take to study agriculture?
It depends on the qualification. Certificates and diplomas can take around one to two years, while a bachelor's degree usually takes around three years. Postgraduate study can take one to two years or more.
What IELTS score do you need to study agriculture?
The IELTS score you need depends on your course and institution. Many undergraduate courses require around IELTS Academic 6.0 overall, while postgraduate courses may require a higher score. Always check your chosen course for its exact requirements.
What jobs can you get after studying agriculture?
You could work in farming, science, agribusiness, horticulture or animal production. Jobs can include Agricultural Scientist, Farm Manager, Agricultural Consultant, Dairy Farm Manager and Horticulture Manager.
Can you work in New Zealand after studying agriculture?
Yes, you may be able to work in New Zealand after you graduate. If you complete an eligible qualification, you may be able to apply for a Post Study Work Visa.
Can studying agriculture lead to PR in New Zealand?
Yes, it may help you build a pathway to residence, but no agriculture course guarantees PR. Your options will depend on your qualification, job, work experience and the visa rules you meet.
Which agriculture courses are eligible for a Post Study Work Visa?
Degree-level qualifications may qualify if they meet the Post Study Work Visa rules. Some non-degree agriculture qualifications are also eligible, including certain qualifications in agriculture, farm management and dairy farming.
Which universities are best for agriculture in New Zealand?
Lincoln University and Massey University are two well-known options for agriculture study in New Zealand. Other universities and institutes also offer agriculture and related courses, so the best choice depends on what you want to study.