Master of Horticultural Science

Lincoln University's Master of Horticulture Science expands your opportunities with a programme involving both advanced training and research in the aspects of science relevant to the horticultural industry.

This is a 240-credit research degree requiring 120 credits of course work plus a 120 credit research thesis. During the programme, you can expect to focus on specific disciplines including Plant Science, Plant Protection, Viticulture and Oenology. The advanced instruction and research experience will make you ready for a wide range of career options in the horticultural industries.

Entry to all Lincoln’s Master’s degrees requires a relevant degree with at least a B-grade average in your 300-level or higher courses and final year overall (or full-time equivalent). 

Lincoln's Master's degree by research only (120 credits) requires one year of full-time study. To apply, you must have an appropriate and relevant postgraduate honours degree awarded with at least second class honours, division one or equivalent (B+ grade average or higher). 

Required documents

To submit your application online, you will need the following: 

1. Birth certificate or passport (scanned copy showing the same name that is on your academic documents).

2. Academic documents. These need to: 

• Be official academic transcripts (results/mark sheets) for all tertiary education qualifications, either completed or partially completed. The transcript must include the courses taken and the marks/grades achieved. The grading scale used must also be provided. 
• Be in the original language. If this is not English, then an official translation should be provided. 
• Provide confirmation of any completed qualifications, if applicable. This can be either: an award certificate, a statement on the transcript or a letter from the awarding institution.

3. Evidence of English language proficiency (if applicable). 

• If English is not your first language, you will need to provide evidence that you are able to meet the English language requirements for admission to Lincoln. If you don't currently have this, you can provide it to us later. 

4. Curriculum Vitae (including a statement of your career intentions). 

• This is used to evaluate your experience to support your application. It should be brief and must include tertiary education and any employment or project experience. 

5. Statement of Research Interest. 

• Please complete the Research Statement (Masters Exam and Thesis) document.

6. Two references. 

• Both of your referees should be able to comment on your academic performance, your research capability, and your ability to complete the degree. At least one referee (preferably both) must be familiar with your recent work. If you have completed a thesis, dissertation or project we will expect your supervisor to provide a reference. Download this referee form and supply it to the referees. 
• Your application can be processed more quickly if these confidential reports are either sent to us in sealed envelopes or emailed to  [email protected]. These references must be signed and dated. 

7. A research abstract of a previous project, dissertation or thesis.

• To assist with the evaluation, it will also be useful for you to submit a complete electronic copy of your Master's thesis or Honours dissertation. 

1. Create your MyLinc Account:

Create an account and submit your application in MyLinc. 
Use an email that you can access and a password you can remember. We recommend monitoring your email spam or junk folders for account verification emails. If these don’t arrive, contact us for help.

 2. Make your study application: 

Once your MyLinc account is set up, log in to make your application. Let us know what you would like to study and give us as much information as you can, as this will help speed up your application. You can save your progress and come back later to complete your application. 

We ask for information about: 

• Your chosen study programme
• When you expect to start
• Your previous study, including your last year of high school
• Your English language test results (if English is not your first language)
• Other documents to support your application if applicable. 

If you are unable to provide your documents in your application, email them to [email protected]. 

 3. Monitor your emails

We’ll keep in touch with you about your application via email and may ask for more information. Once we have everything we need, and if you meet the criteria for your chosen qualification, you will receive an offer letter via email. 

 4. Accept your offer on MyLinc

After you accept your offer on MyLinc, you’ll receive instructions on how to complete your enrolment. You’ll also get your LU username, password and email address. These are sent via email, so monitor your junk/spam folders.  

 5. Check any conditions in your Offer Letter

If we require supporting documentation, please supply that as soon as possible so we can move you through the enrolment process more quickly. If we’ve asked you to provide evidence of your identity, read the instructions carefully.