About the programme
The Postgraduate Certificate in Land and Society is an NZQF level 8 programme at Lincoln University that examines how people and societies interact with physical and natural environments. It carries 60 credits and takes half a year of full-time study, usually one semester.
This is a specialised, multidisciplinary programme that brings together theory and practice in the study of socio-physical phenomena, where social and natural processes are closely intertwined. Students learn to analyse information, build quantitative and qualitative analysis skills, and communicate their critical evaluations clearly. The aim is to prepare graduates to tackle both theoretical and practical real-world problems in which environmental questions cannot be separated from social ones.
The study plan is organised into three course lists. The first covers resource studies theory; the second offers social science research methods, quantitative or qualitative; the third includes Mana Kaitiaki (Māori resource management) and the social psychology of wellbeing. Students complete 60 credits from this schedule, gaining a theoretical framework, research tools and a perspective on the links between society, culture and the environment.
The certificate can be taken as a standalone qualification or used as a step towards a postgraduate diploma or master's degree. It is taught on the Lincoln University campus and suits graduates of a relevant bachelor's degree who are interested in how society uses land and natural resources and how to address the problems that arise.
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
- Additional English language requirements for applicants whose first language is not English
What you study
- ERST 601 Advanced Theory in Resource Studies
- SOCI 601 Social Science Research Methods (Quantitative)
- SOCI 602 Social Science Research Methods (Qualitative)
- MAST 603 Mana Kaitiaki (Māori Resource Management)
- PSYC 602 Advanced Social Psychology of Wellbeing
Careers after graduation
- Progression to a postgraduate diploma
- Further study at master's level
- Practical problem-solving where society and the environment meet
Post-study work visa
Generally not available for this qualification alone
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