Lincoln University

Lincoln University is one of New Zealand's oldest and most distinctive institutions. Established in 1878, it is the country's specialist land-based university, focused on transforming lives and landscapes through education, research and innovation. Located just outside Christchurch on a stunning 58-hectare garden-like campus, Lincoln blends the best of rural charm and urban access.

The university has earned a global reputation for excellence in agriculture, environmental science, agribusiness, tourism, landscape architecture and food innovation. It is ranked in the top 25 per cent of universities worldwide, at number 371 in the QS World University Rankings 2025 and is consistently ranked among the top institutions in the world for agriculture and forestry. Lincoln is also number one in New Zealand for graduate employment, with 82 per cent of graduates employed, and holds a prestigious QS Five Stars rating across key categories including teaching, internationalisation and facilities.

Lincoln University is home to approximately 5,000 students from more than 67 countries, creating a tight knit, globally diverse community. Small class sizes, excellent academic support and a strong pastoral care culture ensure that students are personally supported throughout their journey.

What makes Lincoln unique is its applied learning approach. Nearly every programme includes industry engagement, work-integrated learning and hands-on experience, whether that's conducting environmental research, designing real-world landscape solutions or working on a farm or vineyard. Lincoln's partnerships with government, industry and research institutions help ensure that students graduate with the skills employers are actively seeking.

Christchurch, just 20 minutes from campus, is New Zealand's second-largest city and a growing hub for innovation, sustainability, and lifestyle. With beaches, ski fields and national parks close by, students enjoy an exceptional balance between study and recreation.

Lincoln University continues to achieve global recognition for its academic excellence, sustainability leadership and outstanding graduate employability:

• QS World University Rankings 2025: Ranked number 371 globally, placing Lincoln in the top 25 per cent of universities worldwide
• QS World University Rankings by Subject: Ranked in the top 150 globally for agriculture and forestry
• QS Sustainability Rankings 2025: Ranked number 463 globally for environmental and social impact
• Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings 2025: Ranked in the 501–600 band worldwide
• THE Impact Rankings 2024: Ranked in the 101–200 band globally, with strong individual SDG rankings
• 3rd in the world for SDG 2: Zero Hunger
• 71st for SDG 13: Climate Action
• 52nd for SDG 15: Life on Land
• 54th for SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals
• QS 2023 Employment Outcomes: Ranked number one in New Zealand for graduate employment, with 82 per cent of graduates in paid employment

These results confirm Lincoln's commitment to future-focused learning, sustainability and producing career-ready graduates with global impact.

Lincoln's undergraduate degrees are designed to connect students with real-world challenges, industry networks, and global opportunities. Whatever students are passionate about – be it the environment, food production, global commerce or creative landscape design – there's a programme tailored for them.

Some of the key undergraduate degrees on offer include:

Bachelor of Agricultural Science & Bachelor of Agriculture – This is ideal for students wanting to lead innovation in food and fibre production. These degrees include practical work and strong industry integration.

Bachelor of Science – Students can choose from majors like environmental science, ecology, food science or conservation. This applied degree is designed to help them build practical solutions for global sustainability.

Bachelor of Agribusiness and Food Marketing – This course merges food systems and marketing expertise, preparing students to meet growing global demand for innovative food business solutions.

Lincoln's postgraduate programmes are built for impact. They're developed alongside industry, involve real-world problem-solving and prepare students to lead in their field.

Some popular one-year 180-credit master's degrees include:

Master of Applied Computing – This course is perfect for career changers or upskillers. The course includes industry projects and practical skills.

Master of Fintech and Investment Management – This course taps into the intersection of finance, technology and innovation.

Master of Science in Food Innovation – This course is designed for aspiring food technologists and scientists. Students learn about product development, nutrition and food safety.

Postgraduate pathways also include research masters, graduate diplomas, certificates and industry-specific programmes in areas like environmental policy, wine and viticulture, water management and landscape architecture.

Students with English as their first language automatically meet Lincoln University's English language requirements, whether they are international students, New Zealand citizens or permanent residents.

However, if English is not their first language, students will need to demonstrate that their English competency is high enough to allow them to study successfully at the institution.

It is expected that all students will be able to:

• Write clear, grammatically correct English in essays, assignments, reports and exams.
• Read English with understanding, find relevant information without assistance, and comprehend and analyse a line of argument.
• Listen actively and discern key points in English and follow complex, technical discussion in lectures and small groups.
• Speak freely and clearly in English and actively engage in large and small group discussions.

The general requirement for pursuing the university's bachelor's programmes is an overall score of 6.0 in IELTS, and a total IELTS score of 6.5 for the postgraduate programmes, or their equivalent.

Students can also satisfy the English language requirement for entry to Lincoln programmes by studying the English language at Lincoln.

Students can read more about the English language requirements for entry into the university's programmes on the university's website.

Lincoln University's 58-hectare campus in Canterbury offers a vibrant, inclusive environment where students from over 80 countries come together to learn, live and thrive.

The campus is equipped with modern teaching spaces, a comprehensive library and 24-hour IT labs, supporting a dynamic academic experience. Students have access to a fully equipped fitness centre, world-class sporting facilities, and various dining options, including cafes and eateries. Additional amenities such as free parking, printing services and a travel agency enhance campus life.

On-campus accommodation caters to diverse preferences, with options ranging from fully catered halls of residence to self-catered flats and houses. Each residence is designed to foster a sense of community, featuring social areas, unlimited Wi-Fi, and support from residential assistants who provide guidance and organize events.

Living on campus places students a short walk away from lectures, recreational facilities and social venues, creating a supportive environment that encourages academic success and personal growth.

Lincoln University offers a diverse range of scholarships to support international students across various levels of study. These scholarships are designed to recognize academic excellence, support students in need, and promote diversity within the university community. Below is an overview of the available scholarships:

International Taught Master Merit Scholarship

Qualifying international students enrolled in a 180-credit taught master's programme may receive a scholarship of NZD 7,000 or NZD 10,000 towards their tuition fees. The scholarship amount depends on the specific programme of study.

Undergraduate Vice-Chancellor's Scholarship

This scholarship awards NZD 5,000 to high-achieving international students enrolling in a bachelor's degree programme.

International Pathway Merit Scholarship

New international students entering the Pathway Certificate (Foundation) or First Year Pathway Diploma programmes may be eligible for a NZD 2,500 scholarship, credited towards their tuition fees.

English for Further Study Award

Students who successfully complete a minimum of 12 weeks of English for Academic Purposes (EAP) at Lincoln University and proceed to an academic programme may receive a fee rebate award.

International Undergraduate Scholarship

Valued at NZD 3,000, this scholarship is available to new international students enrolling in undergraduate programmes.

International School Leavers Scholarship

Valued at NZD 10,000, this scholarship is awarded to academically proven international students enrolling in the first year of a bachelor's degree programme from high school.

For detailed information on eligibility criteria, application processes and deadlines, students can visit Lincoln University's official scholarships page on the university's website.

Lincoln University's Pathway Certificate (Foundation) and First-Year Pathway Diploma are designed to provide international students with a strong and seamless transition into university-level study.

Pathway Certificate (Foundation): This one-semester programme lays the groundwork for success in undergraduate study. It equips students with academic skills and subject knowledge while building their confidence and familiarity with university life.

First-Year Pathway Diploma: This is a diploma programme that mirrors a full first year of undergraduate study. Successful completion leads directly into the second year of selected Lincoln bachelor's degrees, meaning international students can complete a degree in the same amount of time as domestic students.

Both programmes are delivered on campus and offer:

• Multiple intakes throughout the year
• A supportive academic and pastoral care environment
• A structured transition into degrees in areas such as science, commerce, agriculture and more

These pathway programmes are ideal for students who need academic preparation or want a smoother adjustment to study in New Zealand.