About the programme
The Postgraduate Certificate in Parks, Recreation and Tourism is an NZQF level 8 programme at Lincoln University that explores how politics, economics and environmental management shape the parks, recreation and tourism sector. It carries 60 credits and takes half a year of full-time study; part-time study is also possible.
Decisions taken for political, economic and environmental reasons directly shape planning and business choices in parks, recreation and tourism. The certificate helps students understand these dynamics and analyse their impact on the sector and on related businesses and organisations. It is useful both for people already working in tourism or recreation and for those moving in from a neighbouring field.
Students complete 60 credits: up to three courses from the main list, which covers resource studies theory, sport and physical activity, events and festivals, tourism management, Mana Kaitiaki (Māori resource management), nature-based recreation and tourism, advanced sport and recreation management, and tourist behaviour. One of these can be swapped for a social science research methods course, quantitative or qualitative, though this is optional. Courses are spread across the first and second semesters.
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 is aimed at graduates of a relevant bachelor's degree.
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
- RECN 604 Sport, Physical Activity and Fitness
- RECN 640 Events and Festivals: Contexts and Concepts
- TOUR 603 Tourism Management
- MAST 603 Mana Kaitiaki (Māori Resource Management)
- RECN 626 Natural Resource Recreation and Tourism
- RECN 627 Advanced Sport and Recreation Management
- TOUR 604 Tourist Behaviour
- Optional: SOCI 601 or SOCI 602 Social Science Research Methods
Careers after graduation
- Progression to a postgraduate diploma
- Further study at master's level
- Roles in parks, recreation, tourism and related organisations
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