About the programme
The Graduate Diploma in Tourism Management is an NZQF level 7 programme at Lincoln University in New Zealand that takes degree holders into management-focused tourism study over one year of full-time study and 120 credits.
Lincoln presents tourism as a major part of the world economy and a key sector for New Zealand. The industry, together with travel and hospitality, was badly affected by COVID-19, and its recovery depends on new strategies, products and approaches — and on people able to lead that work. The diploma belongs to a long-running tourism programme at the university with an international reputation.
Teaching blends theory with practice and looks at the sector at every level, from individual events and sites to destination-wide planning. Students build their study plan from third-year electives covering sustainable business, recreation and tourism in protected natural areas, event management, heritage interpretation, project management, policy, and sustainable tourism planning.
The regulations call for 120 credits, at least 75 of them at 300 level and no more than 15 at 100 level. The university suggests drawing electives from the Bachelor of Sustainable Tourism, and a course advisor helps students turn their choices into a coherent programme. Study takes place on the Lincoln University campus.
The diploma suits graduates from other fields who want to move into tourism, as well as people already in the industry who are aiming for leadership and senior planning roles.
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 additional English language requirements set by the university
What you study
- BMGT 301 — Business and Sustainability
- RECN 341 — Recreation and Tourism in Protected Natural Areas
- RECN 344 — Event Management
- TOUR 304 — Heritage Interpretation for Tourism and Recreation
- BMGT 315 — Project Planning and Management
- SOCI 315 — Policy and Practice
- TOUR 303 — Sustainable Tourism Planning and Management
Careers after graduation
- Management positions in the tourism industry
- Leadership roles in tourism, travel and hospitality organisations
- Senior and strategic tourism planning
- Helping drive tourism recovery in New Zealand or overseas
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