Agriculture is one of the under-rated professions in India. However, agribusinesses and innovation in agriculture are booming. For visionaries aspiring to study the subject, note that agriculture universities in New Zealand are one of the best options to consider. New Zealand is the hub of agribusiness innovation. Agriculture universities in New Zealand allow you to practice and implement your learning.
In addition to the practical aspects of learning agriculture, aspirants hoping to study in New Zealand must know that the country is also the 12th largest exporter of agricultural goods across the World. Thus, pursuing agriculture courses in New Zealand for international students adds on brownie points.
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Why Study Agriculture in New Zealand?
If you wish to study agriculture in New Zealand but are confused about pursuing the course or studying in New Zealand, here are some of the top reasons to study the agriculture courses in New Zealand for international students:
- Two of the agriculture universities of New Zealand rank in the top 100 for agriculture and forestry courses in the QS World University Rankings.
- Farming courses NZ offer hands-on experience to students through frequent farm visits, case studies and research centres.
- Comparatively low cost of living and cost of studying
- As a student in New Zealand, you can be sure to enjoy good student life.
- Agriculture is the powerhouse of New Zealand's and India’s economies. It accounts for a large portion of the GDPs in both countries. Thus, post-study work stress is out of the question if you have studied agriculture.
Studying at the best agriculture university in New Zealand covers mainly about the four important branches of agriculture, that are:
- Agriculture and Horticulture
- Aquaculture and Fishing
- Forestry
- Mining
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Top 3 Agriculture Universities in New Zealand
Whether you want to pursue a bachelors or a masters in agriculture in New Zealand; or want to settle with a year’s graduate diploma in agriculture in New Zealand, choosing the right college is certainly important.
Easing this decision for you, we’ve shortlisted the best three agriculture universities in New Zealand:
- Lincoln University
- University of Otago
- Massey University
Let us now move on to knowing about each of these best agriculture university in New Zealand:
Lincoln University
Lincoln University is ranked in the best 1.5% of universities globally. The university specialises in Agriculture, Horticulture and Viticulture. One of the most popular programs offered is the New Zealand certificate in Agriculture.
College Intake: Late February or Mid July. Anytime for PhD.
Types of Agriculture Courses Offered
Courses offered |
Duration |
Fees |
Diploma |
1 year |
NZ$ 22,400 |
Bachelors |
3 years |
NZ$ 32,000 |
Post Graduation Certificate |
1 year |
NZ$ 32,000 |
Masters |
1.5 years |
NZ$ 43,000-79,000 |
PhD |
3 years |
NZ$ 7,524 |
What is Taught?
- Animal, soil and plant science
- Soil Management
- Pant production systems
- Livestock Production
- Plant health
- Horticulture systems
- Viticulture management
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University of Otago
According to educational performance, University of Otago is one of the highest-ranking universities in New Zealand. It has been awarded 5 stars plus – the highest-possible rating for teaching and research. The courses in agriculture at Otago focus on enhancing agricultural productivity, adding value to primary industry products and sustainable environmental management.
Course Intake: January or February
Types of Agriculture Courses Offered
Courses offered |
Duration |
Fees |
Bachelors |
3 year |
NZ$ 37,000 |
Post Graduation Diploma |
1 year |
NZ$ 39,000 |
Post Graduation Certificate |
0.5 years |
NZ$ 19,000 |
Masters |
1-1.5 years |
NZ$ 60,000 |
What is Taught?
- Cell and molecular biology
- Food science
- Animal Biology
- Biochemistry
- Agricultural innovation
- Molecular Biotechnology
- Aquaculture and Fisheries
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Massey University
Massey University is among the top 3% of universities worldwide, and the best agriculture university in New Zealand. Having research as their strongest suit, they offer one of the best courses in agriculture in New Zealand. Therefore, it is a good choice for a masters in agriculture in New Zealand.
Course Intake: January
Types of Agriculture Courses Offered
Courses Offered |
Duration |
Fees |
Bachelors |
3 years |
NZ$ 33,770 |
Diploma |
1 year |
NZ$ 33,770 |
Post Graduation Diploma |
1 year |
NZ$ 40,870 |
Masters |
1.5 years |
NZ$ 40,870 |
PhD |
1 year |
NZ$ 40,870 |
What is Taught?
- Animal, plant and soil science
- Livestock Management
- Genetics and Breeding
- Cell and molecular biology
- Food science
- Fruit Production
- Rural valuation
- Geospatial science
- Zoology
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Eligibility Criteria and Documents Required for Agriculture Study in New Zealand
Let us now make you discover the eligibility criteria and documents required to study at any renowned agriculture university in New Zealand:
- 2 Letters of Recommendation (LORs)
- Statement of Purpose (SOPs)
- Resume
- Certificates of achievements and extracurricular activities. Prioritise those that might be relevant to the agriculture course you’re applying for.
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Application Process to Study at Top Agriculture Universities in New Zealand
The admission process of agriculture courses in New Zealand for international students is similar to applying for any other course in New Zealand. The steps to follow are:
Step 1: Shortlist your desired agriculture course in New Zealand
Step 2: Make a list of the deadlines and dates for the university admissions
Step 3: Take standardised tests in time before the admission process
Step 4: Keep all documents handy
Step 5: Apply for the course via the university’s website
Step 6: Prepare documents required for Student Visa application
Step 7: Apply for a student visa
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Job Prospects Upon Graduating from Agriculture Universities in New Zealand
The purpose of studying agriculture in New Zealand universities is to attain a bright future. Thus, learn about some of the probable occupations you can have:
- Farm Manager
- Horticulturist
- Viticulturist
- Agriculture or Horticulture Scientist
- Forestry Manager
- Agricultural consultancy
- Rural finance
- Rural insurance
- Accounting
Agriculture graduates usually earn an annual salary of 62,000 NZD upon pursuing agriculture study in New Zealand.
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The affordable tuition fees and overhead scholarships are a great reason to choose New Zealand for Agriculture. More so, students can study Agriculture at multiple education levels. New Zealand, therefore, has become one of the best places in the world to study Agriculture.
Want to know more about NZ? Have a word with our Yocket Counsellors!