Diploma in University Studies
Diploma in University Studies
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Upcoming start dates
Semester 1 - 17 Feb 2025
Semester 2 - 14 Jul 2025
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Qualification
Certificate and Diplomas
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Duration
1 to 1.5 years full time
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Credits
180 for DUS 3 and 120 for DUS 2
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Location
Lincoln University Campus
Prepare for degree-level academic study so you can grow your career prospects in the land-based industries.
Whether you passed University Entrance or just missed out, our Diploma in University Studies (DUS) is a supported study programme that will take you from pre-degree through to entry into the second year of a recognised Bachelor’s degree.
If you decide to continue on to a Bachelor's degree, you will graduate with the DUS before beginning your degree programme. Once you have completed the degree, you will hold two Lincoln University qualifications (the DUS and your bachelor's degree).
If you choose not to continue with a bachelor's degree programme, you will graduate with the DUS only.
Depending on your entry level and qualifications, you can complete the DUS in two or three semesters.
How you’ll grow
- Develop your study, communication and research skills so that you’re ready for the focused, in-depth learning a degree programme provides.
- Expand your knowledge and understanding with a range of courses chosen from Lincoln’s bachelor programmes.
- Round off your capabilities and career-readiness with the core Bachelor course.
You will also take part in our specialised Skills for Success programme, which offers additional tutoring in a range of academic disciplines and provides assistance with study skills, assignments and general guidance.
Programme Structure
Diploma in University Studies - 3 Semester pathway (DUS 3)
Compulsory for all students:
LUAC 010 - Academic Communication and Study Skills (15 credits)
ACEN 103 - Academic Communication for Undergraduates (15 credits)
Plus two from the following courses:
- LUAC 011 - Mathematics and Statistics for Tertiary Study 2 (15 credits)
- LUAC 012 - Business and Economics (15 credits)
- LUAC 013 - Science for Tertiary Study (15 credits)
- LUAC 014 - Te-Tu-a-Uri: Introduction to Māori Culture and Society (15 credits)
- LUAC 015 - Land and Environment (15 credits)
Plus:
Eight 100-level courses from the Bachelor's degree schedule and a compulsory 'Skills for Success' programme.
Diploma in University Studies - 2 Semester Pathway (DUS 2)
Compulsory for all students:
ACEN 103 - Academic Communication for Undergraduates (15 credits)
Plus:
Seven 100-level courses from the Bachelor’s degree schedule, and a compulsory 'skills for success’ programme.
Programme information
Two semester pathway (1 year):
- 38 NCEA credits at Level 3 or higher (must include three approved subjects with a minimum of 10 credits in each subject).
- Plus University Entrance literacy and numeracy.
Three semester pathway (1.5 years):
- 32 NCEA credits at Level 3 or higher (including 20 credits over two approved subjects with a minimum of 10 credits in each subject).
- Plus University Entrance literacy and numeracy.
- A LincolnFirst Level 4 programme
- A LincolnFirst Level 3 programme with high achievement
Other pathways may be considered.
If you have an overseas qualification, you can find out more about entry requirements here.
If English isn’t your first language, other entry requirements will apply. Learn more about English language requirements.
Summary of Regulations
Two Semester Pathway:
- Pass eight approved degree level courses (120 credits) at the 100 level
Three Semester Pathway, all of the following:
- Pass the Academic Communication and Study Skills course
- Pass two pre-degree courses chosen from a list of elective courses
- Pass one approved degree level course (15 credits) at the 100 level
Then: - Pass eight approved degree level courses (120 credits) at the 100 level
What's it going to cost?
Learn more by using the Domestic Fees Calculator or viewing the International Fees.
Study starts:
- Semester 1 (late February)
- Semester 2 (mid-July)
- Summer Semester (early November)
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Entry requirements
Two semester pathway (1 year):
- 38 NCEA credits at Level 3 or higher (must include three approved subjects with a minimum of 10 credits in each subject).
- Plus University Entrance literacy and numeracy.
Three semester pathway (1.5 years):
- 32 NCEA credits at Level 3 or higher (including 20 credits over two approved subjects with a minimum of 10 credits in each subject).
- Plus University Entrance literacy and numeracy.
- A LincolnFirst Level 4 programme
- A LincolnFirst Level 3 programme with high achievement
Other pathways may be considered.
If you have an overseas qualification, you can find out more about entry requirements here.
If English isn’t your first language, other entry requirements will apply. Learn more about English language requirements.
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Regulations and fees
Summary of Regulations
Two Semester Pathway:
- Pass eight approved degree level courses (120 credits) at the 100 level
Three Semester Pathway, all of the following:
- Pass the Academic Communication and Study Skills course
- Pass two pre-degree courses chosen from a list of elective courses
- Pass one approved degree level course (15 credits) at the 100 level
Then: - Pass eight approved degree level courses (120 credits) at the 100 level
What's it going to cost?
Learn more by using the Domestic Fees Calculator or viewing the International Fees.
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Intake semesters
Study starts:
- Semester 1 (late February)
- Semester 2 (mid-July)
- Summer Semester (early November)
Programme contacts
Key information for students
Compare qualification and academic information across different New Zealand institutions.
Need more info?
Email us on grow@lincoln.ac.nz
Or call us on 0800 10 60 10
If you're overseas, please call +64 3 423 0000
Lincoln University endeavours to ensure that the information published on its website is accurate and up-to-date. However, such information is subject to regular review and can change without notice. Entry to programmes may be limited and staffing, programmes and courses may be varied or discontinued at any time.
The University makes no warranty or representation regarding the accuracy of such information and does not accept any liability or responsibility for the accuracy or content of this information.
Students and prospective students are advised to check with the relevant Faculty or Department before applying to enrol in a particular course or programme. International students should also check relevant policies, fees and procedures with our Enrolment Office.
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