About the programme
The Master of Wine and Viticulture is an NZQF level 9 programme at Lincoln University covering both grape growing and winemaking, together with core business knowledge. It carries 180 credits and takes 1.5 years of full-time study over three semesters; depending on when students begin, it can also be completed in 12 months.
The university credits its viticulture and oenology programmes with helping the New Zealand wine industry grow and earn international respect. The master's builds on a bachelor's degree in a related field, deepening knowledge of viticulture, oenology, microbiology and sensory science while adding marketing, accounting, finance and business management. The aim is for graduates to add real value to wineries and businesses linked to wine, both in New Zealand and abroad.
The degree consists of nine postgraduate courses. The compulsory core covers grapevine physiology, sensory science, microbiology, two oenology courses and a research essay; students also take one course in plant cell physiology, supply chain theory or marketing management, plus four short courses on the principles of economics, finance, management and marketing. Academically strong students may replace some business courses and the essay with a 40-credit dissertation. Beyond subject knowledge, students practise analysing complex scientific information, writing systematic reviews and working with partner organisations on defined problems.
The programme is delivered online, and the online format is not available to international students already in New Zealand. Building industry knowledge, networks and partnerships is an explicit part of the programme.
Entry requirements
- 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
- A background in physical and biological science
- Knowledge of or experience in the wine industry is an advantage
- Additional English language requirements for applicants whose first language is not English
What you study
- WINE 601 Grapevine Physiology
- WINE 602 Topics in Oenology A
- WINE 604 Advanced Oenology
- FOOD 607 Sensory Science and Techniques
- MICR 604 Advanced Microbiology
- WINE 698 Research Essay
- One of: BICH 634 Plant Cell Physiology, MKTG 608 Supply Chain Theory, MKTG 681 Managing Marketing
- COMM 601–604: principles of managerial economics, accounting and finance, business management and marketing
- WINE 660 40-credit dissertation as an option for strong students
Careers after graduation
- Management roles in vineyards
- Management and supervisory positions in wine production businesses
- Roles in wine and wine-related businesses 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