About the programme
The Graduate Diploma in Valuation is an NZQF level 7 programme at Lincoln University in New Zealand that gives degree holders a fast route into property valuation through one year of full-time study and 120 credits.
The university expects demand for valuation professionals to keep growing as societies change and both urban and rural land is developed. The diploma is designed as a quick entry point into the field, packing the core knowledge and skills a valuer needs into a single focused year.
Almost the whole programme is compulsory. It covers land economics, resource management law, the principles of property valuation, valuing investment and urban property, applied urban valuation, and property investment and portfolio analysis. One final course is chosen from either property analytical methods or property development. Courses follow a set sequence: the investment property valuation course must be passed before students can move on to portfolio analysis and urban valuation.
Anyone planning to register as a Professional Valuer after graduating needs pre-approval accreditation from the Valuers Registration Board before study begins. Lincoln asks prospective students to get in touch at least two months ahead so this can be started in time. Teaching takes place on the Lincoln University campus.
The diploma is aimed at graduates from other disciplines who want to change direction and build a career in property valuation.
Entry requirements
- A completed undergraduate degree from an accredited New Zealand higher education institution
- Or an equivalent level of education or achievement
- Applicants whose first language is not English must meet the university's English language requirements
- For later registration as a Professional Valuer: pre-approval from the Valuers Registration Board before starting
What you study
- ECON 211 — Land Economics
- LWST 302 — Resource Management Law
- VAPM 209 — Principles of Property Valuation
- VAPM 310 — The Valuation of Investment Property
- VAPM 207 — Applied Urban Valuation
- VAPM 309 — Property Investment & Portfolio Analysis
- VAPM 311 — Urban Valuation
- VAPM 308 — Property Analytical Methods or VAPM 314 — Property Development (choose one)
Careers after graduation
- Property valuation professional
- A pathway to registration as a Professional Valuer, subject to Valuers Registration Board pre-approval
- Work in a field where demand is expected to grow with urban and rural development
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