Lincoln University
Sciences
New Zealand’s specialist land-based university
Where you want to be. This is an exciting time to be a scientist. The Government invests strongly in science and technology research around a full range of sectors including primary production. That’s because New Zealand needs to create new knowledge and convert science into technology in order to support sustainable economic development and resolve an ever-increasing number of challenges confronting society. Lincoln University’s scientific research is highly regarded by multi-national corporations, government-based organisations and universities worldwide, and demand for our science graduates continues to be strong. Careers range from roles as biotechnologists, food scientists and seed technologists through to industry consultants, statisticians and regional council officers. Prospective employers include biotechnology or pharmaceutical companies, plant, crop or seed companies, fertiliser companies, animal health companies, animal breeding companies, Crown Research Institutes (e.g. Landcare, Plant & Food, NIWA), private companies in the food sector, central, regional and local government, environmental consultancies and the education sector.
PAGE 1
Sciences
Five reasons to choose our specialist university Lincoln University has a reputation for excellence in science. We offer levels of study to suit everyone ranging from an undergraduate diploma through to a PhD.
At Lincoln University we focus our scientific knowledge and research on helping you contribute to sustainable management and conservation of land, water and air and the country’s abundant natural resources.
Lincoln’s BSc differs from the BSc at many other universities in that it’s applied and context based instead of discipline based.
PAGE 2
www.lincoln.ac.nz
Our BSc gives you the choice of eight majors, with the option to design your own ‘individual major’ or study a double major. We encourage you to incorporate other areas of study within your degree to broaden your career options. For example, you might look to incorporate agriculture, agricultural science, commerce, environmental management and planning or viticulture and oenology.
The campus is surrounded by Crown Research Institutes and Lincoln’s own teaching staff are some of New Zealand’s best researchers in land-based sciences. Many staff have strong international collaborations.
PAGE 3
The Programme Bachelor of Science
Lincoln University’s BSc degree is firmly anchored in the needs and issues of the real world and differs markedly from a BSc at many other universities. Instead of being discipline based, science at Lincoln University is applied and context based. For example, instead of studying zoology as a discipline, you will study zoology in the context of livestock production or wildlife protection. The three year degree is made up of compulsory and elective courses and there are eight named majors to choose from. You may also decide to create your own major with an individual major or choose an additional named major or minor within your degree. See www.lincoln. ac.nz/majorsandminors for a full list of majors and minors available.
Available BSc majors: Agricultural Biotechnology & Biochemistry Biochemistry is at the core of all modern biology, while biotechnology puts into practice both biochemistry and microbiology. Advances in areas as diverse as plant and animal breeding, industrial biotechnology and medicine depend on a firm understanding of the underlying plant and animal processes. The Agricultural Biotechnology & Biochemistry major provides a solid grounding in the fundamentals of molecular biology and protein biochemistry, leading to a study of real-world applications. Students may choose an animal- or plant-based focus within this major. The applied focus equips students for careers not only in education and research but also in the medical and pharmaceutical support services, food and related industries, and a range of agriculture and horticulture related industries.
Animal Science The Animal Science major is designed to provide a broad background in the disciplines which underpin animal science, with a main emphasis on farm animals. It combines study of biochemistry with animal science disciplines, including physiology, nutrition, health, breeding and genetics. Graduates in Animal Science are prepared for a wide variety of careers in pharmaceutical companies, feed companies, stock and station companies, research laboratories, pest or wildlife management, livestock improvement, human physical performance recording, and many other areas of primary production.
Bioprotection and Biosecurity Bioprotection uses biological interactions to control weeds, pests and diseases to protect both natural and managed ecosystems. Biosecurity is concerned with preventing new organisms from crossing borders and controlling or eradicating those that are already established. This major includes papers in entomology, plant pathology, biological control, plant protection, integrated pest and weed management, weed ecology and general ecology.
PAGE 4
www.lincoln.ac.nz
Conservation and Ecology
Food Science
The conservation and ecology major focuses on giving students the practical skills, experience and industry connections they need to contribute to ecological and conservation activities of government and private agencies in New Zealand and beyond. Our courses include hands-on field trips and labs as well as weekly lectures. Top students can do a research placement course in their third year at an ecology or conservation agency. Practical experience is also available through paid summer scholarships working with Canterbury ecologists and conservationists. Lincoln specialities in conservation and ecology include wildlife biology, entomology, plant ecology, urban ecology, biosecurity, evolutionary biology, vertebrate and invertebrate pest management, and weed management.
The Food Science major combines courses in food biochemistry, food microbiology, food engineering and food processing, food quality, food law, and farm production, to provide a professional training for students interested in careers in the food industry ranging from major food processors through to retail chains and regulatory agencies. The emphasis in this unique major is on quality issues “from paddock to plate.”
Environmental Biogeosciences Environmental Biogeosciences focuses on the flows of matter and energy through the natural and human-disturbed environment and how this controls for example water quality, soil quality and climate change. The basic sciences (chemistry, physics, microbiology) are applied to the chemistry and physics of soils, water, atmosphere, weather and climate, and the microbiological systems which control nature’s cycles.
The New Zealand Institute of Food Science has accredited the BSc in Food Science in respect of its Professional Membership Procedures. Graduates of Food Science are prepared for a wide variety of careers in the food sector including food processing companies, supermarkets and health providers; and in the environmental health and inspection sectors. Students wishing to undertake a research-based career will probably need to further their studies with a postgraduate degree.
Plant Science The Plant Science BSc major at Lincoln University provides comprehensive training in plant biology, with a focus on plant function. This is developed in the three classical plant science streams of plant production, ecology and biochemistry. Students can choose to do two or three of these streams within the major. Special emphasis is placed on the application of this knowledge, e.g. how it can be utilised in the ‘real world’ and in context with global climate change.
Water Science and Technology This major covers a broad foundation in basic physical/ chemical and biological science and focuses on specific skills and understanding of the science of water and technologies for its use and management. These skills include monitoring, modelling, using and managing water systems in terms of water as a resource and a hazard, and building up professional competence on reporting and evaluating some selected water resources technologies and management issues for surface water, groundwater and waste water.
PAGE 5
Compulsory courses The following courses are compulsory for all BSc majors.
QMET 201
Biometrics
This course focuses on populations and samples, estimation, analysis of variance, experimental design, regression, correlation and covariance, contingency table and sampling methods. It also provides an introduction to computers and package usage. Plus either:
BIOS 109
Biology
This course is an introduction to the structure, function and evolution of animals and plants with special reference to invertebrate animals and seed plants. Or:
BIOS 111
Invertebrate and Microbial Biology
This course offers an introduction to the diversity of microorganisms and invertebrates and their life strategies. You will study the basis of exploitation and conservation of beneficial organisms and control of harmful organisms. Plus either:
PHSC 101
Chemistry 1A
PHSC 101 is an introduction to atomic theory and periodicity; chemical quantities and equilibria, and organic chemistry. Or:
PHSC 104
Global Environmental Issues
This course offers a science-based overview of the humaninduced stresses on the physical components of planet earth’s biosphere, its atmosphere, and land- and water-based resources. Please see the Course Information Guide for a complete list of additional compulsory courses for each major.
PAGE 6
www.lincoln.ac.nz
Other study options
Other areas of study at Lincoln University
So you’re keen to further your study?
If you are interested in science, you may also be interested in some of the other programmes on offer such as:
There is also a range of graduate and postgraduate qualifications offered at Lincoln University that may interest science graduates.
• • • • • • • • • •
Bachelor of Agriculture/Agricultural Science Bachelor of Commerce (Agriculture) Bachelor of Environmental Management and Planning Bachelor of Viticulture and Oenology Certificate of Natural Resources Diploma in Agriculture Diploma in Applied Science Diploma in Farm Management Diploma in Horticultural Management Diploma in Horticulture.
For further information contact us on 0800 10 60 10.
Science at Lincoln is centred on three broad areas: A wide range of biological sciences, environmental sciences and food science. Successful graduates may wish to progress to the Master of Science degree. Other qualification options include: • • • •
Graduate Certificate Graduate Diploma Honours Postgraduate Certificate
• Postgraduate Diploma • Masters • PhD.
Other areas of study • • • • • • • • • • • •
Agricultural Science Applied science Commerce Environmental policy Horticultural science Landscape architecture Natural Resources Management and Ecological Engineering (involves study in Austria) Parks, Recreation and Tourism Management Resource Studies Social Science Software and information technology Viticulture and oenology.
For further details contact us on 0800 10 60 10.
PAGE 7
Look where they’ve landed
SARENA CHE OMAR BACHELOR OF SCIENCE (AGRICULTURAL BIOTECHNOLOGY AND BIOCHEMISTRY) WITH HONOURS GRADUATE PHD CANDIDATE AT OXFORD UNIVERSITY, UNITED KINGDOM
Bachelor of Science graduate Sarena Che Omar’s interest in genetics made the decision to study at Lincoln University an easy one. “Lincoln is one of only a few universities in New Zealand offering a Biotechnology degree involving molecular genetics, which is a new and very interesting field - the more you discover the more questions need answering.” She says that she was inspired by her supervisors and lecturers. “They are top notch, very dedicated and approachable. They have guided me in the genetics field and taught me about producing quality research.” Adding to this Sarena says: “Most importantly, Lincoln also taught me that you can be academically successful and still have fun.” After her three-year Bachelor of Science degree, she decided to further her study with an honours degree at Lincoln. She didn’t stop there though. Sarena aimed higher; she applied and gained acceptance to Oxford University in the UK to study a fully sponsored PhD degree researching human population genetics on ancient human migrations in Southeast Asia. “I am so excited about going to Oxford University; it will be a great experience. As for a future career, I certainly enjoy learning and teaching and look forward to be exploring science with my own research team, as well as inspiring students about the beauty of Science!” Originally from Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, Sarena liked the diverse student population and enjoyed the relaxed and close-knit atmosphere on campus which made her feel at home. “Many students at Lincoln University are from European and Asian countries, the USA, etc. The different cultures and backgrounds made my time at Lincoln more wholesome and diverse.”
“I believe the staff are Lincoln University’s most important asset.”
PAGE 8
www.lincoln.ac.nz
ERIN QUINN-WALSH BACHELOR OF SCIENCE (ANIMAL SCIENCE) WITH HONOURS GRADUATE RESEARCH ASSISTANT, LIVESTOCK IMPROVEMENT CORPORATION
When Erin Quinn-Walsh visited Lincoln University she liked the layout of the campus and the friendly staff. “Students have the chance to get to know their lecturers at Lincoln, which is pretty special in my opinion. For me, it was this interaction that sealed the deal.” Science was an obvious option for Erin and she decided to keep her course very broad in the first year to find out what best to choose as a major. “I enjoyed all of it and tailored my own course with an individual major to suit me. I also realised that I wanted to go the next step in science and completed an Honours year.” During her final year Erin received the Pat Shannon Scholarship from the Livestock Improvement Corporation (LIC) and, after a month’s work experience at the company, was offered a job as Research Assistant. “At LIC I am involved in projects focusing on the improvement of venison and milk production. I manage growth data collected from a number of deer farms, analyse data and report results, and develop and implement research protocols. I also have a 50:50 share-milking position with my partner, where I milk cows, rear calves and make business decisions.” Erin says that Lincoln provided her with sound scientific thinking processes and encouraged her to think outside the box. Adding to this she says that she enjoyed learning the theory in class and then getting in amongst it in the practical laboratory sessions. “The farms alongside the university are an invaluable resource and a great learning environment. You can learn all of the theory in the world, but until you see it in practice, there is a gap in your understanding. ”
“Lincoln is a great place to push your knowledge boundaries and excel.”
PAGE 9
Frequently asked questions
What will I study in this course?
Who should think about choosing this degree?
The courses you study will depend on your choice of major. You can choose one or more major from: Animal Science; Agricultural Biotechnology and Biochemistry; Environmental Biogeosciences; Bioprotection and Biosecurity; Conservation and Ecology; Food Science; Plant Science; Water Science and Technology. In addition, the ‘Individual Major’ (a common choice) allows you to design your own customised major.
If your ideas about a career in science are more closely aligned to seeing results that count in the real world, or working in the field, then study science at Lincoln. Our programmes are unique because they’re firmly anchored in the scientific needs and issues that underpin production of our country’s food and fibre. We focus our scientific knowledge and research on helping you contribute to sustainable management and conservation of land, water and air and the country’s abundant natural resources.
What differentiates this course from others?
Where can I land with this degree?
The BSc is a very ‘wide spectrum’ applied science degree, spanning biological and physical sciences, plus a variety of other disciplines.
With support at government level for significant financial investment in science and technology research around primary production, demand for graduates of this degree will continue to be strong in the foreseeable future. Examples of careers for Lincoln’s BSc graduates include biotechnologists, environmental consultants, industry consultants, regional council or government department officers, CRI researchers, software engineers and statisticians.
You can design your degree programme to have similarities with Lincoln’s Agriculture or Viticulture & Oenology degrees, while maintaining a wider base and therefore wider options for your future. How is this course structured? The BSc is a three year degree requiring 24 courses made up of compulsory and elective options. There are eight named majors to choose from and you may also decide to create an individual major or choose an additional major or minor within your degree. See www.lincoln.ac.nz/majorsandminors for a full list of majors and minors available Some examples of minors include: Environmental Biogeosciences; Human Resource Management; Ma-ori studies; Urban Ecology and Sustainable Business.
What subjects should I take at school to best prepare me for this degree? Your best preparation is to take at least one of the basic sciences, i.e. biology, chemistry or physics. Also very useful are mathematics, statistics and some basic knowledge of computing. Strength in English will enhance your progress in any degree at Lincoln University. These are recommended but not compulsory. Experience shows that students may perform well in a science even without a strong school background in that subject.
In their final year, top performing students can undertake a research essay or project as part of their degree. There is also an Honours degree option which involves a fourth year of study.
PAGE 10
www.lincoln.ac.nz
Want to know more? Phone 0800
10 60 10 in New Zealand or +64 3 325 2811 if you’re calling from overseas.
Text LAND to 5900 with your email or mobile details so that we can contact you, or email us at land@lincoln.ac.nz You can also visit the Lincoln University website - www.lincoln.ac.nz - to find out more about: Scholarships Accommodation options Enrolment and Semester dates Fees And more ...
Lincoln University New Zealand’s specialist land-based university
Disclaimer Every effort is made to ensure that information in this publication is correct at the time of printing, but the content may be subject to change. Lincoln University reserves the right to make changes, amendments or deletions - including the withdrawal of courses should circumstances change. Lincoln University does not assume, and hereby disclaims, any express or implied liability whatsoever to any party for any loss or damage caused by errors or omissions, whether these errors or omissions result from negligence, accident or any other cause.
Environmental Statement This Prospectus is printed on Sumo which boasts ISO 14001 status (International Organisation for Standards), which has established performance objectives and environmental management systems to prevent pollution, ensure compliance with regulations and achieve continual improvement. Acid Free Element Chlorine Free (ECF) ISO 14001 Well Managed Forest.
PAGE 11
Want to ďŹ nd out more?
www.lincoln.ac.nz
0800 10 60 10 in New Zealand +64 3 325 2811 international