About the programme
The Graduate Diploma in Recreation Management is an NZQF Level 7 programme at Lincoln University for degree holders who want to lead in parks, sport management and community recreation. It carries 120 credits and normally takes 1 year of full-time study.
The university links demand for these professionals to wellbeing and healthier living becoming more visible social expectations, which in turn increases the need for people who can lead in sport, outdoor pursuits and recreation.
The programme builds on graduates' existing critical thinking and academic skills and adds practical recreation management capability. This prepares them for roles in the public, commercial and voluntary sectors, spanning parks, outdoor leadership, sport management, community recreation and tourism.
Students need 120 credits, at least 75 at 300 level and no more than 15 at 100 level. Electives must include 60 credits from the Bachelor of Sport and Recreation Management schedule or any 300-level RECN course. At least four courses are chosen from a core list: sport and recreation management, recreation and tourism in protected natural areas, event management, sport and exercise science, a practicum in sport, recreation and tourism, policy and practice, and the social psychology of wellbeing. A course advisor helps build a coherent programme.
It suits graduates from other fields who want to move into managing sport, parks or leisure, as well as people already working in the sector who want a relevant qualification.
Entry requirements
- A completed bachelor's degree from an accredited New Zealand higher education institution.
- Or an equivalent level of education.
- Additional English language requirements apply if English is not your first language.
What you study
- RECN 343 Sport and Recreation Management
- RECN 341 Recreation and Tourism in Protected Natural Areas
- RECN 344 Event Management
- RECN 345 Fundamentals of Sport and Exercise Science
- RECN 393 Practicum: Practical Experience in Sport and Recreation and Tourism Management
- SOCI 315 Policy and Practice
- PSYC 302 Social Psychology of Wellbeing
Careers after graduation
- Parks management
- Outdoor leadership
- Sport management
- Community recreation
- Tourism
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