About the programme
The Diploma in Horticulture is an NZQF Level 5 programme at Lincoln University that introduces horticultural technology, production and management and prepares students for a range of roles in the industry. It carries 120 credits over 1 year of full-time study.
The university stresses horticulture's importance to New Zealand's food production and export economy. The diploma provides a broad base in horticultural technology, production and management, and builds applied computing and problem-solving skills.
The programme is made up of eight compulsory 15-credit courses. The first semester covers horticultural management systems, propagation and nursery, soils and soil management, and technology and communication. The second continues management systems and adds plant studies, plant health and introductory engineering. Over the year students move from soil and planting material through to how a horticultural operation is run.
Practical work is required: at least 12 weeks of hands-on experience, preferably full-time, on at least two different types of horticultural unit. Besides the campus, the diploma is offered part-time off-campus at only two sites, Nelson and Tauranga, and students in the Nelson and Bay of Plenty areas may be able to study through Fruition Horticulture.
It suits people starting a horticultural career who want practical preparation. Graduates are eligible to continue to the Diploma in Horticultural Management.
Entry requirements
- NCEA Level 2 or higher with at least 40 credits across four approved subjects (maximum 24 per subject), plus University Entrance literacy and numeracy.
- Or a New Zealand Certificate in Horticulture at Level 4 or higher from an approved polytechnic.
- Or special admission or other pathways; overseas qualifications are assessed separately.
- Additional English language requirements apply if English is not your first language.
What you study
- MGMT 026 Horticultural Management Systems A and MGMT 027 Horticultural Management Systems B
- HORT 022 Propagation and Nursery
- SOSC 021 Soils and Soil Management
- COMP 022 Technology and Communication
- PLSC 021 Plant Studies
- BIOS 022 Plant Health
- ENGN 023 Engineering I
Careers after graduation
- A range of positions in New Zealand's horticulture industry
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