BSc (Hons) Agriculture (Foundation Year)

Program Overview

The BSc (Hons) Agriculture degree equips students with the knowledge and skills to become successful agricultural professionals and farm managers. Through a combination of applied research, industry collaboration, and expert instruction, the program covers the latest developments in sustainable agriculture, resilient farm management, and the scientific foundations underpinning agricultural production. Graduates are prepared for diverse career opportunities in various agricultural sectors, including farming, research, policy, and consultancy.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

Objective:

The BSc (Hons) Agriculture degree aims to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to become successful agricultural professionals and farm managers. Through a combination of applied research, industry collaboration, and expert instruction, the program covers the latest developments in sustainable agriculture, resilient farm management, and the scientific foundations underpinning agricultural production.

Overview:

The program focuses on four key areas:

• Technology and Innovation: Explores the utilization of advanced technologies and innovative solutions in the agricultural sector.
• Environmental Sustainability: Emphasizes the importance of environmentally responsible practices and resource management in agriculture.
• Business and Enterprise: Provides students with the necessary skills and knowledge to successfully manage and operate agricultural businesses.
• Employability and Leadership: Equips students with the communication, collaboration, problem-solving, and leadership skills required for a successful career in the field.

Key Features:

• Offers a holistic approach to agricultural education, encompassing technical, theoretical, and practical aspects.
• Prepares graduates for diverse career opportunities in various agricultural sectors, including farming, research, policy, and consultancy.

Outline:

Course Content:

• Combines lectures, seminars, tutorials, laboratory work, group projects, case studies, and field trips to provide a comprehensive learning experience.
• Incorporates a strong emphasis on developing practical skills through real-world scenarios and farm management exercises.
• Emphasizes the use of technology and digital platforms in various aspects of the program.
• Encourages interactive discussion and collaboration among students.
• Integrates research methodologies and project work to nurture critical thinking and independent research skills.
• Culminates in a final-year research project allowing students to specialize in a specific area of interest.

Structure:

• Full-time program lasting four years.
• Semesters are typically 15 weeks long.
• Students typically take 60 credits per semester.
• A total of 360 credits are required for graduation.
• Students complete a mandatory 15-week work placement during their third year to gain practical industry experience.

Modules:

Foundation Year:

• Focuses on developing basic academic and study skills.
• Provides foundational knowledge in relevant areas such as soil science, animal science, plant science, and business finance.
• Introduces students to key agricultural principles and practices.

Years One and Two:

• Cover a wide range of topics related to agricultural science, technology, business, and sustainability.
• Examples include:
• Soil and Environmental Science
• Introduction to the Agri-Food Industry
• Ecosystems Services and Sustainability
• Applied Animal Science
• Applied Plant Science
• Business Finance and Accounts
• Innovation and Technology
• Farm Business Planning
• Animal Health and Welfare
• Agronomy

Year Three:

• Delves into advanced topics and challenges facing the agricultural sector.
• Examples include:
• Climate Change and Natural Resource Challenges
• Technology and Agroecology Innovation
• Food Supply Systems and Policy
• Research Project / Dissertation
• Electives:
• Advances in Livestock Nutrition
• Crop Health and Protection
• Sustainable Farm Management
• Agronomy Challenges and Solutions
• Livestock System Challenges and Solutions
• Farm Business Consultancy

Assessment:

• Utilizes a variety of assessment methods to evaluate student understanding and skills.
• Examples include:
• Assignments
• Coursework
• Oral presentations
• Written examinations
• Research project

Teaching:

• Led by a team of experienced and passionate academics with expertise in their respective fields.
• Promotes an interactive and engaging learning environment through:
• Encouraging student participation and discussion
• Utilizing modern teaching methods and technologies
• Providing opportunities for independent research and practical application

Careers:

• Prepares graduates for diverse career paths in the agricultural sector.
• Examples include:
• Agronomist
• Nutritionist
• Geneticist/breeding specialist
• Farm manager
• Health and welfare manager
• Animal scientist
• Researcher
• Policy advisor
• Consultant
• Entrepreneur

Other:

• Emphasizes the importance of building a sustainable and resilient agricultural sector.
• Provides students with a strong foundation in ethical and responsible agricultural practices.
• Encourages students to develop a global perspective on agriculture and its role in addressing global challenges.
• Offers opportunities for students to engage with the wider agricultural community through field trips, industry visits, and guest lectures.

UK International Full-time £9,250 per year £15,300 per year