Bachelor of Viticulture and Oenology
Course details
| NZQF Level | 7 |
|---|
About the course
Every great wine is a product of high quality science and sound process management. Lincoln University’s Bachelor of Viticulture and Oenology prepares you to cultivate a future in the wine sector in New Zealand or overseas.
Great wines are made long before they reach the glass — in the soil, the vines, the people, and the science that connects them. At Lincoln, you’ll learn how vineyards and wineries work from the ground up, studying the science that shapes grape and wine production. You’ll experience each stage for yourself as you develop the knowledge and practical skills needed to grow a future in New Zealand’s most iconic land-based industry.
How you’ll grow
- By developing a strong understanding of the sciences, including biology, chemistry, plants and soils.
- Develop a strong foundation in science and understand how they define grape and wine production
- Explore the entire wine supply chain, from vine growth and vineyard ecosystems to winemaking processes, quality assessment, and global markets
- Learn the essentials of horticultural systems with a strong focus on viticulture, applying concepts directly in Lincoln’s own on-campus vineyards
- Understand wine science, sensory evaluation, and quality management through practical laboratory sessions and a range of guided tastings
- Produce your own wine
Career opportunities
You'll be ready for a range of careers in the wine industry, including viticulturist, vineyard manager, foreman, winemaker, sales specialist and cellar manager.
Practical work requirements
During your study, you’re expected to complete:
- A total of 18 weeks of hands-on practical experience
- Covering six consecutive weeks in a commercial vineyard
- Covering six consecutive weeks in a commercial winery
- Covering six consecutive weeks in an allied industry (wine bar or shop, winery laboratory, commercial vineyard or brewery)
- Alternatively, you can complete up to 12 weeks in your vineyard or winery practical work placement.
For more information on the practical aspects of study, or request a copy of the Practical Work Handbook, contact the Practical Work Co-ordinator at [[email protected]](https://www.lincoln.ac.nz/cdn-cgi/l/email-protection#93e3e1f2f0e7faf0f2ffe4fce1f8d3fffafdf0fcfffdbdf2f0bdfde9) or phone +64 3 423 0061.
> I wanted to study at a university with credible links to the land. The kind of thing that isn’t offered at other universities, from people with a strong connection to land and growing.
Len Ibbotson
Bachelor of Viticulture and Oenology
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.