About the programme
The Diploma in Farm Management is an NZQF Level 6 programme at Lincoln University that follows the Diploma in Agriculture and prepares students for management roles in agribusiness or professional farm management. It carries 120 credits over 1 year of full-time study.
The programme covers every aspect of running an agricultural business: buying and owning land, agricultural law, labour management and employment law, financial and tax management, investment analysis and machinery ownership. Its aim is to extend the abilities of Diploma in Agriculture graduates towards leadership roles.
Half of the credit comes from Farm Management, a 60-credit course running across both semesters (MGMT 73A and MGMT 73B). The other 60 credits are electives: at least four 15-credit courses, two per semester. Options include sheep, dairy, beef and deer production, applied agroforestry, annual crops, pasture management, amenity and fruit horticulture, and engineering. A course advisor helps plan the programme.
Practical work is a major component. In addition to study, students complete 44 weeks of hands-on experience on at least two different types of farm and meet the reporting requirements for that work. Vehicle driving competence is needed, and tractor or truck experience is an advantage. Previous farming experience is preferred but not essential.
It suits Diploma in Agriculture graduates, or people with equivalent preparation, who want to move from farm work into managing a farm or agribusiness.
Entry requirements
- Successful completion of Lincoln University's Diploma in Agriculture gives eligibility for admission.
- Equivalent qualifications are assessed case by case.
- Additional English language requirements apply if English is not your first language.
- Previous farming experience is preferred but not essential.
What you study
- MGMT 73A / MGMT 73B Farm Management (60 credits, compulsory)
- ANSC 073 Sheep Production
- ANSC 072 Dairy Production
- ANSC 071 Beef and Deer Production
- FORS 070 Applied Agroforestry
- PLSC 071 Annual Crop Production
- PLSC 074 Pasture Management
- HORT 071 Amenity Horticulture and HORT 072 Fruit Crop Production
- ENGN 076 Engineering II
Careers after graduation
- Management roles in agribusiness
- Professional farm management
Post-study work visa
About 1 year
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