About the programme
The Bachelor of Sport and Recreation Management is an NZQF Level 7 programme at Lincoln University that trains managers for the sport and recreation sector. It carries 360 credits over 3 years of full-time study.
The university says it offers the broadest choice of sport and recreation courses of any New Zealand university. Students build skills in strategic management, marketing, event planning and sport science, and look at a variety of approaches to leisure and outdoor recreation. Theory is grounded in research evidence, while practical work focuses on management, planning and leadership.
First-year compulsory courses introduce sport and recreation concepts, sociology, New Zealand government and public policy, and leadership in the leisure industry. The second year covers event planning, research methods, physical activity and health, sport and society, motivation and participation, and adventure tourism and outdoor recreation. The final year turns to sport and recreation management and to policy and practice.
A 120-hour internship, delivered through the Practicum course, is matched to each student's interests and to employer needs, and students also work alongside industry experts. In the first year at least one course in management, financial information or marketing is required, with suggested electives in psychology, tourism, economics and ecology.
It suits people who love sport and active recreation and want a career organising and managing it.
Entry requirements
- Domestic applicants: University Entrance through NCEA or an approved equivalent.
- Overseas qualifications are assessed under the university's international entry criteria.
- Separate English language requirements apply if English is not your first language.
- Recommended school subjects: English (strongly advised), commerce/business, PE/outdoor education, tourism and geography.
What you study
- RECN 110 Concepts in Sport and Recreation
- SOCI 117 Introduction to New Zealand Government and Public Policy
- RECN 111 Leisure Industry Leadership
- RECN 213 Event Planning
- RECN 216 Principles of Physical Activity, Exercise and Health
- RECN 217 Sport and Society
- PSYC 202 Motivation and Participation
- RECN 215 Adventure Tourism and Outdoor Recreation
- RECN 343 Sport and Recreation Management
- RECN 393 Practicum: Practical Experience in Sport and Recreation and Tourism Management
Careers after graduation
- Sports development officer
- Marketing and communications officer
- Community sports or engagement advisor
- Sports facility manager or consultant
- Secondary school head of sport
- Parks and recreation planner or park ranger
- Outdoor recreation leader or event manager
- Sport club or gym manager
Post-study work visa
Equal to the length of the programme, 3 years maximum
Depends on the qualification, the length of study and other Immigration New Zealand requirements.
This description is based on the official programme page, checked on 09/09/2026. Ask an NIU adviser about fees and intake dates — the programme page on the Lincoln University website