About the programme
The Diploma in Horticultural Business is an NZQF Level 5 programme at Lincoln University for people already working in New Zealand horticulture who want to add business skills to their production knowledge. It carries 120 credits, takes 1 year full-time and is delivered online.
The university calls horticulture one of New Zealand's most dynamic and successful industries and says it needs qualified, experienced leaders. The diploma links knowledge of horticultural production and other food businesses with management skills, and can lead to roles in strategic management, consultancy and sustainable growing.
Students explore how biological, economic and social factors build value chains in horticulture and global agribusiness, and examine the technical, economic and social dimensions of horticulture worldwide. They learn to design competitive marketing strategies and to tackle production, business and marketing problems. By the end, each student prepares and presents a business plan based on their own business or work situation.
There are eight compulsory courses, taken two per term across four terms when studying full-time; part-time study at one course per term is also possible. All materials and assessments are online, and Zoom sessions are held and recorded as agreed with the group. Three compulsory face-to-face workshops add study, networking and industry visits.
Note for international students: the online version is not available to international students who are onshore in New Zealand. Experience in the horticultural sector is an advantage.
Entry requirements
- University Entrance through NCEA or an approved equivalent; overseas qualifications are assessed separately.
- Special admission is available for mature domestic students in relevant employment.
- Current or previous horticultural work experience is an advantage.
- Additional English language requirements apply if English is not your first language.
- The online version is not open to onshore international students.
What you study
- HORT 108 Introduction to Horticultural Management
- MGMT 107 Horticultural Resource Planning: Production and Labour Management
- MKTG 103 Horticultural Supply Chain Management
- MKTG 104 Horticultural Marketing
- MKTG 105 Global Trends and New Market Opportunities in Horticulture
- MKTG 106 Innovation and New Product Opportunities in Horticulture
- MGMT 108 Horticultural Financial Management
- MGMT 109 Business Planning and Legislation in Horticulture
Careers after graduation
- Strategic management in horticulture
- Industry consultancy
- Sustainable growing
- Leadership roles in horticultural and food businesses
Post-study work visa
Generally not available for this qualification
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