Diploma in University Studies
Course details
About the course
Prepare for degree-level academic study so you can grow your career prospects in the land-based industries.
This qualification is no longer offered
Please check out our new qualification:
First-Year Pathway diploma
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.
About the provider
Lincoln University is one of the eight government universities in New Zealand. Established in 1878, it is governed by the Lincoln University Council.
Based in Canterbury, in the South Island of New Zealand, Lincoln offers a unique experience, a perfect balance of student and academic life and a host of recreation activities around the region.
The institution is rated the 15th best small university in the world by the QS World University Rankings. It is home to a diverse group of nearly 4,500 students who come from more than 80 different countries around the world.
Lincoln graduates have a 6 percent higher employment rate than those from other New Zealand universities and the number of students graduating from Lincoln is higher than the national average.
Students can choose from a wide range of specialist courses from three faculties and one division – the Faculty of Agribusiness and Commerce; the Faculty of Agriculture and Life Sciences; the Faculty of Environment, Society and Design; and the University Studies and English Language Division.
Lincoln has dedicated itself towards undertaking meaningful research that makes a globally positive impact. Its sustainable approach and commitment towards handling climate change issues have attracted many postgraduate students studying at the institution.
The university also engages in other land-based research and hosts a range of research centres, including food research and innovation, land, environment and people, wildlife management and conservation, and soil and environmental research.
The university shares ties with leading organisations as well as research centres, which help students gain additional skills and knowledge through practical learning experiences.
The Lincoln University Students' Association (LUSA) is an active student body that governs a variety of clubs and organisations on campus.