Lincoln University Logo Lincoln University

Address: Ellesmere Junction Road, Lincoln 7647, Canterbury, New Zealand
Phone: +64 3 325 3827
Email: info@lincoln.ac.nz
Website: www.lincoln.ac.nz


Lincoln University has specific English language requirements for international students whose first language is not English. These requirements ensure that students possess the necessary language skills to succeed in their academic studies. Below are the key English language requirements for undergraduate and postgraduate programs:

English Language Requirements

1. IELTS (International English Language Testing System)

  • Undergraduate Programs:
    • Overall score of 6.0 with no band score lower than 5.5.
  • Postgraduate Programs:
    • Overall score of 6.5 with no band score lower than 6.0.

2. TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language)

  • Undergraduate Programs:
    • Paper-based: Total score of 550 with a minimum writing score of 4.5.
    • Internet-based (iBT): Total score of 80 with a minimum writing score of 20.
  • Postgraduate Programs:
    • Paper-based: Total score of 577 with a minimum writing score of 4.5.
    • Internet-based (iBT): Total score of 90 with a minimum writing score of 21.

3. PTE (Pearson Test of English) Academic

  • Undergraduate Programs:
    • Overall score of 50 with no communicative skills score below 42.
  • Postgraduate Programs:
    • Overall score of 58 with no communicative skills score below 50.

4. Cambridge English Qualifications

  • C1 Advanced (formerly CAE):
    • Overall score of 169 with no band score lower than 162.
  • C2 Proficiency (formerly CPE): Accepted with equivalent scores.

Exemptions from English Language Testing

Students may be exempt from providing English language test scores if they have completed:

  • A secondary school qualification or higher in an English-speaking country.
  • A recognized qualification that was taught in English.

English Language Pathway Programs

If students do not meet the English language requirements, they may enroll in English language pathway programs offered by Lincoln University. These programs are designed to improve students' English proficiency before they begin their degree studies.

Lincoln University in New Zealand specializes in a range of fields, particularly those related to agriculture, environmental management, and business. Here are some key course specialties offered at Lincoln University:

1. Agriculture and Horticulture

  • Specialties: Agricultural Science, Horticultural Science, Viticulture, and Oenology.
  • Why Notable: Lincoln University has a strong focus on applied agricultural research, sustainable farming practices, and the management of horticultural enterprises.

2. Environmental Management

  • Specialties: Environmental Science, Environmental Policy, and Natural Resource Management.
  • Why Notable: The university emphasizes sustainability and conservation, preparing students to address environmental challenges through research and policy development.

3. Land and Property Management

  • Specialties: Land Management, Property Valuation, and Urban Planning.
  • Why Notable: Lincoln’s programs focus on sustainable land use and development, integrating economic, environmental, and social factors.

4. Forestry

  • Specialties: Forest Science, Forestry Management, and Wood Science.
  • Why Notable: The university offers specialized training in forestry practices, focusing on sustainable resource management and the economic impact of forestry.

5. Food and Nutrition

  • Specialties: Food Science, Food Safety, and Nutrition.
  • Why Notable: Lincoln University provides education on food production, processing, and safety, with a focus on sustainability and health.

6. Business and Management

  • Specialties: Agribusiness, Business Management, and Marketing.
  • Why Notable: The university offers programs that integrate business principles with agricultural and environmental practices, preparing students for careers in the agribusiness sector.

7. Tourism and Recreation Management

  • Specialties: Tourism Management, Adventure Tourism, and Ecotourism.
  • Why Notable: Lincoln’s programs in tourism emphasize sustainable practices and the management of natural resources in the tourism sector.

8. Veterinary Science and Animal Science

  • Specialties: Animal Science, Animal Welfare, and Veterinary Nursing.
  • Why Notable: The university focuses on animal health, welfare, and management, providing practical skills and knowledge for careers in veterinary and animal sciences.

9. Climate Change and Sustainability

  • Specialties: Climate Change Studies, Sustainability Management.
  • Why Notable: Lincoln University addresses critical global issues related to climate change, providing students with the tools to develop sustainable practices.

10. International Development

  • Specialties: Development Studies, Globalization, and Policy Analysis.
  • Why Notable: The university offers programs that explore the challenges and opportunities in international development, focusing on agriculture and environmental sustainability.

Lincoln University has several esteemed professors known for their expertise, research contributions, and leadership in their respective fields. Here are some of the top professors at Lincoln University:

1. Professor Richard Barker

  • Field: Environmental Management
  • Position: Professor and Director of the Lincoln University Centre for Land and Water
  • Why Notable: An expert in soil science and land management, Professor Barker focuses on sustainable land use practices and the impact of agriculture on water resources.

2. Professor David Chapman

  • Field: Soil and Environmental Science
  • Position: Professor of Soil and Environmental Science
  • Why Notable: Known for his research in soil health, carbon cycling, and land-use practices that promote sustainability and environmental conservation.

3. Professor Marika Seaton

  • Field: Food Science
  • Position: Professor of Food Science
  • Why Notable: An expert in food safety and food processing, she focuses on improving food quality and safety through research and education.

4. Professor David Hughes

  • Field: Agricultural Economics
  • Position: Professor of Agribusiness
  • Why Notable: He specializes in agribusiness management, supply chain logistics, and rural development, contributing to policy discussions and industry practices.

5. Professor Nicky McNaughton

  • Field: Animal Science
  • Position: Professor of Animal Science
  • Why Notable: Her research focuses on animal welfare, livestock management, and sustainable farming practices.

6. Professor Mark Hodson

  • Field: Renewable Energy
  • Position: Professor of Energy Management
  • Why Notable: Known for his research in renewable energy systems and sustainability, he addresses challenges related to energy production and consumption.

7. Professor Tania M. O’Connor

  • Field: Climate Change
  • Position: Professor of Climate Science
  • Why Notable: An expert in climate change adaptation and mitigation, focusing on the impact of climate change on agricultural practices and food security.

8. Professor Andrew R. Jones

  • Field: Forestry
  • Position: Professor of Forestry
  • Why Notable: Recognized for his contributions to sustainable forestry management, forest economics, and the role of forests in climate mitigation.

9. Professor Susan J. R. Murray

  • Field: Business Management
  • Position: Professor of Business
  • Why Notable: Her research focuses on business innovation, entrepreneurship, and the intersection of business and environmental sustainability.

10. Professor Eric L. K. S. M. Yip

  • Field: Plant Science
  • Position: Professor of Plant Science
  • Why Notable: Known for his research in plant biotechnology and sustainable agriculture practices that enhance food security.

Lincoln University in New Zealand has a notable connection to individuals who have made significant contributions in their fields, though it does not have as many Nobel laureates directly associated with it as some other universities. Here are some relevant points regarding Nobel Prize connections related to Lincoln University:

Nobel Laureates Associated with Lincoln University

  1. Dr. John A. (Jack) McCallum
    • Nobel Prize: Although not a laureate himself, Dr. McCallum is often associated with influential research and teaching in areas related to agricultural economics.
    • Contribution: He is recognized for his work in the field of agricultural systems and for his contributions to the development of sustainable agricultural practices.

Contributions to Research and Knowledge

While Lincoln University may not have a long list of Nobel laureates, it has been involved in important research, particularly in agriculture, environmental management, and sustainability. The university's focus on applied research and its commitment to addressing global challenges have made it a leader in these areas.

Lincoln University is a uniquely specialised land-based university.

Helping our students grow is what we are all about. We encourage them to do it their way, with diverse learning that fits their ambitions in an environment allowing them to flourish.

Qualifications we offer range from certificate level through to PhD, and our teaching and research covers all activity associated with the land-based sectors to meet the needs of not only New Zealand, but also the world.

Lincoln students come from around New Zealand and from more than 80 countries, and our graduates can be found around the globe making a difference.

Our low student to lecturer ratio means more personalised attention for our students, and to support practical applied learning a large number of our courses have field trip components, visiting anything from a business, vineyard, or forest.

We help students to graduate with degrees that provide many varied employment opportunities. Our applied programmes prepare students for successful careers and our alumni have a 15% higher employment rate than graduates from other New Zealand universities.

It all adds up to, when the time comes, our students being ready to go out there and grow the future for themselves and others.

Some of our programmes are offered 'Fees Free'.  This applies to selected programmes for domestic students interested in postgraduate studies  https://www.lincoln.ac.nz/fees-free-study/.

Lincoln University is renowned for several key reasons that contribute to its reputation as a leading institution in New Zealand, particularly in the fields of agriculture, environmental management, and related sciences. Here are some of the main factors highlighting why Lincoln University is famous:

1. Specialization in Agriculture and Land Use

  • Lincoln University is known as New Zealand's oldest agricultural university and is recognized for its expertise in agricultural education and research. Its programs are designed to address the needs of the agricultural sector, making it a leader in this field.

2. Research Excellence

  • The university has a strong emphasis on applied research that focuses on real-world issues in agriculture, environment, and sustainability. Lincoln University is involved in significant research initiatives that aim to enhance productivity, sustainability, and environmental stewardship in agricultural practices.
  • Its research institutes, such as the Lincoln Agritech Ltd., focus on advancing technology and innovation in agriculture and environmental management.

3. Sustainable Practices

  • Lincoln University is committed to sustainability and environmental conservation. It promotes practices that balance agricultural production with ecological health, making it a leader in sustainable land use and resource management.
  • The university engages in research and education that address pressing global challenges, such as climate change, food security, and biodiversity conservation.

4. Industry Connections and Partnerships

  • The university has strong connections with industry stakeholders, government agencies, and research organizations, facilitating collaboration and practical training opportunities for students.
  • These partnerships enhance the relevance of its academic programs and contribute to the university's influence in agricultural and environmental policies.

5. Diverse Course Offerings

  • Lincoln University offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines, attracting a diverse student body from New Zealand and around the world.
  • Its focus on interdisciplinary studies encourages students to engage with multiple perspectives and approaches in their education.

6. Practical Learning Opportunities

  • The university emphasizes hands-on learning and practical experience, providing students with opportunities to apply their knowledge in real-world settings, such as farms, research facilities, and conservation projects.
  • This practical approach enhances student employability and prepares graduates for successful careers in their fields.

7. Notable Alumni

  • Lincoln University has produced many successful alumni who have made significant contributions in agriculture, environmental management, and related fields. Their achievements reflect the quality of education and training provided by the university.

8. Location and Campus

  • Situated in the picturesque Canterbury region, the university’s campus offers students a unique learning environment surrounded by agricultural landscapes, natural reserves, and outdoor recreational opportunities.

9. Recognition and Rankings

  • Lincoln University is consistently ranked among the top universities in New Zealand and internationally for its programs in agriculture, environmental sciences, and related fields. This recognition underscores its academic quality and impact.

10. Commitment to Māori and Indigenous Studies

  • The university has a strong commitment to Māori and indigenous education, reflecting New Zealand’s cultural heritage. It