New partnership boosts viticulture programme

News Release – For immediate use
New partnership boosts viticulture programme

Nelson Marlborough Institute of Technology has signed an agreement with Lincoln University that ensures the continued delivery of a bachelor degree in viticulture at its Marlborough Campus.

The partnership positions the institute as the only New Zealand education provider offering students two vintage experiences during their viticulture studies.

“This partnership with Lincoln University further cements Marlborough’s reputation as a centre of excellence for wine industry training and is another example of how we are meeting the needs of our students, community and local industry,” NMIT Chief Executive Tony Gray says.

NMIT this month signed an extension of its agreement with Lincoln University to deliver the university’s Bachelor in Oenology at the Marlborough Campus. The agreement provides an assurance for the continuation of the Bachelor programme in Marlborough, and means students have a guaranteed pathway from NMIT’s two-year Diploma in Viticulture to a Bachelor Degree without having to leave the region.

“It’s the most convenient and cost effective option for our viticulture students wanting to continue their studies at university,” Mr Gray says.

Lincoln University Vice-Chancellor Dr Andrew West says it is proud to be associated with NMIT and its viticulture programme.

“NMIT have strong industry networks and are already delivering high-quality training in viticulture, and our bachelor degree adds to the calibre of the programme,” he says. “Marlborough is one of the best places in New Zealand to study viticulture, so partnering with NMIT in this region to deliver our degree made sense.”

NMIT Primary Industries Programme Area Leader Jeff Wilson says it is exciting to have certainty for the continued delivery of the bachelor degree.

“This agreement shows the confidence that both the providers and industry have in our viticulture programme, and in this region as a premier destination for wine industry training,” he says.

“It’s not only Marlborough students who’ll benefit, students are also coming up from Lincoln to study at NMIT, as well as from other parts of the country.”

NMIT’s two-year Diploma in Viticulture and Wine Production is a practical, hands-on programme where students get one vintage of practical industry work experience and, should they choose to progress on to the Lincoln University Degree, a second vintage experience plus a summer school.

“Thanks to our relationship with Lincoln University, NMIT is the only viticulture training provider in New Zealand where students can experience two vintages as part of their learning,” Mr Wilson says.

NMIT Group Manager Economic Development, Sharon McGuire, says the Top of the South is a dominant presence in the New Zealand wine industry and “NMIT is right in amongst it”.

“There are challenges facing the sector, but by offering higher education, flexible learning opportunities and partnering with other institutes, universities and organisations we’re ensuring students have everything they need to succeed.”

ENDS

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