Lincoln University's Master of Commerce (Agricultural) is a specialised, industry-based research degree creating future leaders and managers in both the primary production and agribusiness sectors. Agriculture and related industries currently earn more than 50% of New Zealand's total export income. The sector consistently competes against, and beats, competitors in challenging, and protected, world markets. To do this the sector relies on a ‘practical professional' approach by those working within it - and Lincoln applies this to our teaching. This way, students learn not only how to successfully operate a farm business, but also about national and international issues that confront the agribusiness manager as a professional in one of New Zealand's most important sectors.