Agricultural Science BAgrSc

Program Overview

UCC's Agricultural Science BAgrSc (Hons) program equips students with extensive knowledge and practical skills in dairying, emphasizing fundamental sciences, best practices, and cutting-edge technologies. The program provides a comprehensive education anchored in research and collaboration with Teagasc, preparing graduates for a wide range of employment opportunities in the agri-food sector, both nationally and internationally.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

At UCC, the Agricultural Science BAgrSc (Hons) program offers a comprehensive agricultural education with a focus on dairying. The program aims to equip students with the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in the dairy farming and wider dairy/agri-food sector. It emphasizes fundamental sciences, core knowledge, best practice applications, and the latest tools and technologies. The program is designed to prepare graduates for a wide range of employment opportunities in the field.

Outline:

The program is structured over four years and includes a significant work placement component.

Year 1 Modules:

• AG1001 Introduction to Agriculture (10 credits): This module provides an overview of the agricultural industry, covering topics such as farm management, crop production, livestock production, and agricultural economics.
It covers topics such as the structure and function of biomolecules, metabolic pathways, and the molecular basis of disease.
• BL1002 Cells, Biomolecules, Genetics and Evolution (5 credits): This module explores the structure and function of cells, the role of biomolecules in cellular processes, the principles of genetics, and the mechanisms of evolution.
• BL1004 Physiology and Structure of Plants and Animals (5 credits): This module focuses on the physiological processes and anatomical structures of plants and animals, including topics such as photosynthesis, respiration, digestion, and reproduction.
• CM1202 Fundamentals of Modern Chemistry for Agricultural Sciences (10 credits): This module provides a foundation in chemistry, covering topics such as atomic structure, chemical bonding, chemical reactions, and the properties of matter.
• FE1019 Introduction to Food and Agricultural Economics (5 credits): This module introduces students to the principles of economics as applied to the food and agricultural industries.
It covers topics such as supply and demand, market structure, and agricultural policy.
• FE1030 Introduction to International Food Policy (5 credits): This module explores the global food system, including topics such as food security, trade, and sustainability.
• FS2005 Principles of Food Science & Technology (5 credits): This module introduces students to the principles of food science and technology, covering topics such as food composition, food processing, and food safety.
• MA1001 Calculus for Science Part I (5 credits): This module provides a foundation in calculus, covering topics such as limits, derivatives, and integrals.
• PY1109 Physics for Agriculture & Environmental Science (5 credits): This module introduces students to the principles of physics as applied to agriculture and environmental science.
It covers topics such as mechanics, heat, light, and electricity.

Course Practicalities:

• The program is anchored in the School of Biological Earth and Environmental Sciences (BEES) at UCC.
• Students spend the majority of their first and second years on the UCC campus.
• Teagasc's input is delivered through visits to Teagasc Moorepark (Fermoy) and Teagasc Clonakilty Agricultural College, as well as field trips.
• From the third year, the Paddy O'Keeffe Innovation Centre at Teagasc Moorepark becomes the primary base for students.
• Students are recommended to have a valid full driving license before commencing their work placements in year 3.

Assessment:

• The program utilizes a variety of assessment methods, including exams, coursework, and practical assessments.
• Work placements form a significant component of the program, with a final year project (AG4001) based on real-world application.

Teaching:

• The program is taught by a team of experienced faculty members with expertise in agricultural science, dairy science, and related fields.
• The program incorporates a blend of theoretical and practical learning, including lectures, seminars, laboratory work, field trips, and work placements.

Careers:

• Graduates of the Agricultural Science BAgrSc (Hons) program are highly employable in the agri-food sector.
• The program provides students with the knowledge, experience, and professional development necessary to succeed in a variety of roles, both nationally and internationally.
• Sample career opportunities include:
• Leading roles within Teagasc, DAFM, ICBF, financial institutions, dairy/food processing companies, agri-merchants, pharma giants, AI industry, enterprise management, private consultancy, education, marketing, communications, journalism, etc.

Other:

• The program is offered in partnership with Teagasc, a leading agricultural research and advisory body in Ireland.
• Teagasc Moorepark is recognized as a center of excellence in pasture-based dairy research and innovation.
• Clonakilty Agricultural College has a long history of practical agricultural training.
• The program is research-led, incorporating the latest advances in agricultural research.
• Students have the opportunity to participate in a study abroad program in New Zealand, including a three-month work placement on a New Zealand dairy farm.

The State will pay the tuition fees for EU students who are eligible under the Free Fees Scheme. The cost of travelling between UCC and Teagasc centres, as well as field trips and site visits, during Years 1 and 2 will be covered. However, third-year students will be required to contribute towards the cost of travel for journeys to and from Moorepark and other field trips associated with the course. Also, students are responsible for any costs associated with work placement in Year 3 of the programme.