Graduate Diploma in Agriculture

Program Overview

The Graduate Diploma in Agriculture at Royal Agricultural University is a one-year full-time or two-year part-time program designed for graduates and professionals seeking a career change towards agriculture. The program provides a comprehensive understanding of the UK agricultural industry, hands-on rural skills training, and professional development in agriculture, farming, and land management. Graduates pursue diverse roles in farm management, agricultural consulting, and other related fields.

Program Outline

Graduate Diploma in Agriculture at Royal Agricultural University

Degree Overview:

This intensive one-year full-time or two-year part-time program provides graduates and professionals from other fields the opportunity to redirect their careers towards agriculture and associated rural industries. The program focuses on:

• Acquiring hands-on rural skills training at the RAU’s cutting-edge John Oldacre Rural Innovation Centre
• Developing professional skills relevant to agriculture, farming, and land management
Graduates find diverse roles such as farm managers, farm assurance officers, and agricultural consultants. Others progress to Masters level programs.

Objectives:

• Equip graduates and professionals with the necessary knowledge and skills for successful careers in agriculture and related fields
• Provide practical, hands-on training in modern agricultural practices and technologies
• Develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills relevant to agricultural settings

Program Description:

This unique program offers a personalized learning experience through a combination of:

• Compulsory Modules:
Four core modules cover essential areas such as agriscience, animal health and welfare, agronomy, and sustainable farm management.
• Elective Modules:
Choose four additional modules from a diverse selection focusing on various aspects like forestry and woodland management, countryside and environmental management, ecological consultancy, livestock nutrition, and many more.
• Case Studies, Assignments, and Projects:
Engage with real-world problems and scenarios through practical tasks and projects to apply theoretical knowledge and develop critical thinking. This program offers a flexible schedule for full-time and part-time students. In-person sessions and study visits are typically held on Tuesdays throughout the year, allowing for commitments outside of academics.

Other:

• The program encourages pre-course reading to solidify basic agricultural knowledge and identify areas for improvement.
• The program emphasizes continuous learning through lectures, farm walks and visits, case studies, assignments, management projects, and study tours.
• The program aims to equip graduates with the skills and knowledge required for a successful and fulfilling career in the agricultural sector.

Outline:

Course Structure:

• Four compulsory modules
• Four elective modules chosen from a diverse range of options
• Blend of theoretical knowledge and practical application through case studies, assignments, projects, and farm walks
• In-person sessions and study tours typically held on Tuesdays throughout the year
• Animal Health and Welfare: Learn to assess animal health and welfare using frameworks and tools
• Agronomy: Discuss agronomic factors for crop production in different farming systems
• Sustainable Farm Management: Create a farm system aligned with various agricultural approaches

Elective (choose four):

• Forestry & Woodland Management
• Countryside & Environmental Management
• Ecological Consultancy
• Advances in Livestock Nutrition
• Crop Health and Protection
• Food Ethics and Governance
• Climate Change and Natural Resources Challenges
• Technology & Agroecology Innovation
• Food Supply Systems & Policy
• Wildlife Behaviour & Evolution
• Agronomy Challenges & Solutions
• Livestock System Challenges & Solutions
• Organic Systems

Careers:

Graduates pursue careers in various sectors, including:

• Farm Management
• Agricultural Commodity Trading
• Agricultural Consulting
• Agricultural Research/Trials
• Farm Assurance Scheme Officers
• Livestock Feed Analysis
The GDA program at the RAU is a perfect opportunity to embark on a career in this space. It is a fascinating, intense, and immersive experience."
• Brad Currin, Student

Additional Points:

• The program aims to address the needs of graduates and professionals seeking a career change towards agriculture.
• The curriculum provides a balanced blend of theoretical knowledge and practical skills relevant to real-world agricultural settings.
• The RAU's state-of-the-art facilities and experienced faculty contribute to a high-quality learning experience.
• Graduates are well-equipped for diverse career opportunities in the dynamic agricultural industry.

UK

Overseas

Full-time £9,250 per year £15,300 per year Part-time £4,625 per year N/A