Master of Science - Plant Breeding
Master of Science - Plant Breeding
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Upcoming start dates
Semester 2 - 14 Jul 2025
Semester 1 - 23 Feb 2026
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Qualification
Research Master's
Taught and Research Master's
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Duration
2 years full-time
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Credits
240
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Location
Lincoln University Campus
Explore the advanced science involved with plant breeding to further your career opportunities in this fast-evolving area.
Study for free
If you're a New Zealand citizen or permanent resident, residing in New Zealand at the time of study, you may be eligible for free tuition fees (for the 120 taught credits). Part time study options may be available. Terms and conditions apply. Learn more.
About this programme
Lincoln’s MSc in Plant Breeding prepares you a career as a plant breeder in the cropping or pastoral industries. This is an in-demand role in New Zealand and globally with the need for increased food production and more restorative growing practices. Core content within this major is designed to align with internationally-recognised plant breeding qualifications, and is continually updated in collaboration with the New Zealand industry to maintain relevance. The research programme and accompanying facilities stretch from molecular biology to field-based breeding programmes. We maintain close ties with local plant breeding companies as well as with Crown Research Institute breeding programmes. This creates access to leading projects and breeding programmes across New Zealand, including regular field tours of South Island-based initiatives for both commercial and research reference.
Programme information
For a 240 credit Master's (thesis plus exam) you need a relevant New Zealand level 7 bachelor’s degree or recognised equivalent with a B average or better in the 300 level and final year (full-time equivalent) courses
For the 120-credit Master's (thesis only) you need a relevant postgraduate Honours degree with Second Class Honours, Division One equivalent or higher.
If English isn’t your first language, other entry requirements will apply. Learn more about the English language requirements.
Summary of Regulations
- Students are required to complete 240 credits: normally 120 credits of taught courses from the schedules to the regulations for the relevant master's degree and a thesis worth 120 credits. Note that the first year provides preliminary research preparation.
- Students enrolling in thesis only masters are required to complete a minimum of 120 credits.
What's it going to cost?
Learn more by using the Domestic Fees Calculator or viewing the International Fees.
You can start studying in:
- Semester 1 (late February)
- Semester 2 (early July)
- Other intakes may be possible for the 120-credit thesis-only Master's. This will be dependent on Supervisor availability.
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Entry requirements
For a 240 credit Master's (thesis plus exam) you need a relevant New Zealand level 7 bachelor’s degree or recognised equivalent with a B average or better in the 300 level and final year (full-time equivalent) courses
For the 120-credit Master's (thesis only) you need a relevant postgraduate Honours degree with Second Class Honours, Division One equivalent or higher.
If English isn’t your first language, other entry requirements will apply. Learn more about the English language requirements.
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Regulations and fees
Summary of Regulations
- Students are required to complete 240 credits: normally 120 credits of taught courses from the schedules to the regulations for the relevant master's degree and a thesis worth 120 credits. Note that the first year provides preliminary research preparation.
- Students enrolling in thesis only masters are required to complete a minimum of 120 credits.
What's it going to cost?
Learn more by using the Domestic Fees Calculator or viewing the International Fees.
-
Intake semesters
You can start studying in:
- Semester 1 (late February)
- Semester 2 (early July)
- Other intakes may be possible for the 120-credit thesis-only Master's. This will be dependent on Supervisor availability.
Programme Structure
You’re required to complete 240 credits. This is normally made up of 120 credits of taught courses (from the regulation schedule) and a thesis worth 120 credits. Students enrolling in a thesis-only Master’s only need complete a minimum of 120 credits.
You can find a list of available supervisors here.
The first year’s study provides preliminary research preparation.
List A
Select one of the following two courses
Select a further 40 credits from the following recommended courses
- Compulsory courses
- Elective courses
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
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