About the programme
The Master of Applied Science in Land and Society (Research) is an NZQF level 9 research programme at Lincoln University in New Zealand that examines how human behaviour relates to the surrounding environment. The standard route is 240 credits over two years of full-time study.
The Master of Applied Science allows students to combine study and application in agriculture, industry, communications, recreation and tourism, and to connect these with rural development and the management and conservation of the biosphere and natural resources.
The Land and Society specialisation builds a multidisciplinary grasp of how people and societies interact with physical and natural environments, both in theory and in practice. Topics include the social and cultural aspects of land use and environmental change, how people experience and value natural and built settings, and urban and rural change in New Zealand and globally. Students also learn to respect Māori and Pākehā values in a New Zealand context and ethical responsibilities towards people, the environment and animals.
Normally 120 credits are coursework and 120 a thesis, with the first year serving as research preparation. Students take Advanced Theory in Resource Studies, a quantitative or qualitative social science methods course, two courses from a list covering environmental impact assessment, Māori resource management and the social psychology of wellbeing, and one 600-level elective. A thesis-only route of at least 120 credits is available. Teaching is on the Lincoln University campus.
The programme suits people who want to apply social science to real land-use and environmental problems, and those heading towards a PhD — Lincoln explicitly describes it as preparation for doctoral study.
Entry requirements
- 240-credit route (thesis plus exams): 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 route (thesis only): a relevant postgraduate honours degree at Second Class Honours, Division One or equivalent
- Applicants whose first language is not English must meet the university's English language requirements
What you study
- Advanced Theory in Resource Studies — compulsory, 20 credits
- SOCI 601 — Social Science Research Methods (Quantitative) or SOCI 602 — Social Science Research Methods (Qualitative)
- ERST 621 — Principles of Environmental Impact Assessment
- MAST 603 — Mana Kaitiaki (Māori Resource Management)
- PSYC 602 — Advanced Social Psychology of Wellbeing
- One 600-level elective from the Schedule of Courses
- Thesis — 120 credits
Careers after graduation
- Progression to PhD study
- Research on society–environment relationships
- Work on urban and rural development issues
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