About the programme
The Master of Science (Plant Breeding Research) is an NZQF level 9 research programme at Lincoln University that prepares students for careers as plant breeders in the cropping and pastoral sectors. It carries 240 credits and takes 2 years of full-time study. It suits graduates of a relevant bachelor’s degree who want to advance in this fast-moving field.
Plant breeders are sought after in New Zealand and internationally as the world needs more food and more restorative ways of growing it. The core content is designed to match plant breeding qualifications recognised around the world, and it is regularly refreshed together with New Zealand industry. Research facilities cover the full range from molecular biology to breeding trials in the field.
The standard route combines 120 credits of taught courses with a 120-credit thesis, and the first year serves as preparation for independent research. Compulsory courses deal with quantitative genetics and plant breeding and genetics; students then add either experimentation or plant biochemistry, plus 40 credits from recommended courses in plant cell physiology, plant pathology and crop physiology. Holders of an Honours degree can instead take a thesis-only route of at least 120 credits.
Lincoln works closely with local plant breeding companies and with Crown Research Institute breeding programmes, which gives students access to leading projects around the country and regular field tours of commercial and research sites in the South Island. The programme is based on the Lincoln University campus.
Entry requirements
- 240-credit route (courses plus thesis): a relevant New Zealand level 7 bachelor's degree or recognised equivalent, with at least a B average in 300-level and final-year courses
- 120-credit thesis-only route: a relevant Honours degree with Second Class Honours, Division One or higher, or equivalent
- Additional English language requirements for applicants whose first language is not English
What you study
- Quantitative Genetics
- Plant Breeding and Genetics
- Advanced Breeding and Genetics
- QMET 608 Experimentation or BICH 636 Plant Biochemistry
- Recommended electives: BICH 634 Plant Cell Physiology, PLPT 613 Plant Pathology, PLSC 611A/611B Plant and Crop Physiology
- 120-credit research thesis
Careers after graduation
- Plant breeder in the cropping industry
- Plant breeder in the pastoral industry
- Roles in breeding companies and research programmes in New Zealand and overseas
Post-study work visa
Up to 3 years
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