In New Zealand, the field of agriculture is often overlooked and undervalued, despite the fact that the agribusiness industry and technological advancements in the sector are rapidly expanding. For individuals with a passion for agriculture who are looking to further their education, New Zealand offers top-notch agriculture universities. The country has become a center for innovative agribusiness solutions and these universities provide hands-on learning experiences, allowing students to put their knowledge into practice.

For individuals with aspirations to study agriculture, it's important to know that not only does New Zealand offer practical learning experiences, but it is also a major player in the global agriculture industry. As the 12th largest exporter of agricultural goods in the world, pursuing agriculture studies in New Zealand can give an extra advantage to international students. 

This makes the country an ideal destination for those looking to further their knowledge in the field and enhance their chances of success in the industry.

Why Study Agriculture in Zealand?

• By choosing to study agriculture in New Zealand, you will have access to world-class facilities and resources that will enable you to explore and develop your skills in the field. The curriculum is designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of the subject and covers various aspects of agriculture, such as plant and animal science, soil science, agronomy, horticulture, agribusiness, and more.
• In addition to the traditional classroom setting, agriculture universities in New Zealand offer numerous opportunities for hands-on learning through internships, research projects, and fieldwork. This allows you to apply what you have learned and gain practical experience, which is highly valued by employers.
• Moreover, New Zealand’s agriculture industry is constantly evolving, and the country is at the forefront of many cutting-edge innovations in the sector. By studying agriculture in New Zealand, you will have the opportunity to stay up-to-date with the latest developments and be prepared for a career in a fast-paced, dynamic industry.
• If you have a passion for agriculture and are looking for high-quality education in the field, studying agriculture in New Zealand is an excellent choice. The country’s agriculture universities provide a supportive learning environment and offer numerous opportunities to develop your skills and advance your career.

Major Agricultural Subject in New Zealand

These are significant branches of agriculture and related subjects that students can study in New Zealand. 

• Agronomy: The study of plant and soil science, with a focus on improving crop production.
• Animal Science: The study of domesticated animals, including their behavior, nutrition, and physiology.
• Soil Science: The study of soil properties and processes, including soil fertility and soil conservation.
• Horticulture: The study of growing and cultivating fruit, vegetable, and ornamental plants.
• Agricultural Economics: The study of the economic aspects of agriculture, including market analysis, resource allocation, and farm management.
• Agricultural Engineering: The study of the design and construction of farm structures and equipment, as well as the application of engineering principles to agriculture.
• Agricultural Technology: The study of the use of technology in agriculture, including precision agriculture, agri-robotics, and remote sensing.
• Agribusiness Management: The study of business principles as they apply to the agriculture industry, including marketing, finance, and supply chain management.
• Food Science and Technology: The study of food production, preservation, and packaging, with a focus on food safety and quality.

Popular Courses in New Zealand for Agriculture

• Diploma
• Bachelors
• Post Graduation Certificate
• Master
• PhD

Top Agriculture Universities in New Zealand

If you're considering studying agriculture in New Zealand, it's essential to select the right university to ensure the best possible educational experience. Whether you're interested in a bachelor's or master's degree, or a graduate diploma in agriculture, we've compiled a list of the top three agricultural universities in the country to help guide your decision-making process.

Lincoln University

Lincoln University New Zealand, located in the southern region of Christchurch, has a rich history of providing quality education for 140 years. The university is highly regarded, being ranked as the 12th best small university globally by the QS Stars Rating System. It also received a 5-star rating for its efforts in promoting internationalization and inclusiveness among its students and staff. With a commitment to excellence in education and a supportive and inclusive environment, Lincoln University is an exceptional choice for those seeking to study agriculture in New Zealand.

This university is known for its strong agriculture program, offering a range of courses in agribusiness, horticulture, animal science, and more. The university also has a thriving research program, with a focus on sustainable agriculture and food production. Some of the courses offered at Lincoln University include:

Courses Offered

• Bachelor of Agricultural Science
• Master of Agribusiness
• Master of Sustainable Agriculture and Food Systems
• Master of Animal Science

Massey University

Massey University is a highly-regarded institution that has been ranked among the top 300 universities in the world by the 2021 QS World University Rankings. This innovative and forward-thinking university is known for its commitment to research-led teaching and training and its strong connections to industries and commerce that drive economic growth. 

With a focus on agriculture, along with other major areas such as veterinary medicine, food technology, and engineering technology, Massey University offers students the opportunity to study in a dynamic and supportive environment that is dedicated to fostering academic excellence and professional growth.

Courses Offered

• Bachelor of Agricultural Science
• Master of Agricultural Science
• Master of Agribusiness
• Master of Applied Horticulture

University of Otago

The University of Otago, New Zealand's first university founded in 1869, has a legacy of pushing the limits of what can be accomplished in higher education. With a commitment to academic excellence, it is consistently ranked as one of the top universities in New Zealand for educational performance. The University of Otago has received the highest possible rating for teaching and research with a 5-star plus rating. 

The agriculture courses offered at Otago are designed to promote agricultural productivity, add value to primary industry products, and ensure sustainable environmental management. With a focus on the latest research and practical applications in the field of agriculture, the University of Otago is a premier choice for those seeking to study agriculture in New Zealand.

Courses Offered

• Master of Agricultural Science
• Ph.D. in Agricultural Science
• Graduate Diploma in Agricultural Science
• Bachelor of Commerce (Agriculture)
• Master of Business (Agriculture)
• Master of Applied Science (Agriculture)

University of Waikato

The University of Waikato is recognized for its innovative research in agriculture and its strong partnerships with industry leaders. This dynamic university offers a variety of agriculture and food science courses that emphasize innovation and sustainability. With a commitment to addressing the challenges faced by the agriculture industry, the University of Waikato provides students with the knowledge and skills needed to drive positive change and advance the field of agriculture. Whether students are interested in plant science, animal science, agribusiness, or food technology, the University of Waikato has a course to fit their needs. 

Through practical learning opportunities, hands-on experience, and collaborations with industry partners, students can expect a dynamic and challenging education that prepares them for careers in agriculture and food science.

Courses Offered

• Bachelor of Agricultural Science
• Master of Agricultural Science
• Master of Food Science and Technology
• Master of Sustainable Agriculture

Tuition Costs

Eligibility Criteria

• SPM with a minimum of five passes and foundations or A levels in science
• Pass four STPM subjects that are relevant, including English, and hold a bachelor's degree in agriculture and related fields.
• Completed a Master's Degree and/or Ph.D. from a recognized international institute or any equivalent international institute, and completed any relevant Degree or any equivalent International Degree with a minimum CGPA of 2.5.

Application Process

• Identify your top choice for an agriculture course in New Zealand.
• Research the admission deadlines and important dates for the universities of interest.
• Schedule and take any necessary standardized tests before the application period.
• Ensure that all relevant documents are organized and readily available.
• Submit your course application through the university's online portal.
• Assemble the necessary documents for a student visa application.
• Submit your student visa application.