Program Overview
The MSc Agriculture and Development program at the University of Reading prepares professionals for careers in rural development, agricultural extension, or research. It focuses on the role of agriculture in tropical and subtropical regions, examining challenges and opportunities in agricultural intensification and environmental sustainability. Graduates are equipped with a comprehensive understanding of agriculture's contribution to human development and equipped for diverse careers in both the public and private sectors.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
The MSc Agriculture and Development program at the University of Reading is designed for individuals pursuing careers in rural development, agricultural extension, or research. The program aims to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the role of agriculture in international contexts, particularly in tropical and subtropical regions of the developing world. Students will critically examine how agriculture and agricultural research address major challenges and opportunities in agricultural intensification and environmental sustainability.
Outline:
Compulsory Modules:
- Rethinking Agricultural Systems
- Agriculture in the Tropics
- Theories and Practices of Development
- Research for Development
- Experimental Agriculture
- Dissertation
Optional Modules:
- Climate Smart Agriculture
- Principles of Integrated Pest Management
- Horticultural Crop Technology
- Agricultural Technology: Application, Adoption and Ethics
- Agricultural Project Planning and Management
- Energy, Climate Change and Development
- Appraisal of Agricultural and Rural Development Projects
- Research Methods in Economics and Marketing
- Concepts and Practices of Communication
- Traditional Ecological Knowledge
Teaching:
The program is taught by academics conducting world-class research in international development, crop science, animal science, sustainable land management, and applied economics and marketing. Current research, policy, and practice examples are used throughout the course, and many modules include external seminar speakers. There is also a series of department and research division talks and events.
Careers:
Graduates of the MSc Agriculture and Development program are prepared for careers in rural development, agricultural extension, or research within private and public sectors, nationally and internationally. The program provides opportunities for networking, internships, placements, and research dissertations, allowing students to showcase their skills, undertake field research, or link with organizations in the development sector.
Other:
- The program is offered by the Graduate Institute of International Development, Agriculture and Economics (GIIDAE), which attracts a diverse community of master's students from more than 40 countries.
- GIIDAE has an active scholarship program.
- The program emphasizes farming systems and explores the role and contributions of agriculture and horticulture to human development, food and nutritional security, livelihoods, and ecosystem services.
- New UK/Republic of Ireland students: £10,800
- New international students: £22,350
