Sustainable Agriculture (Top-up)

To study on the BSc Top-up in Sustainable Agriculture you need to have successfully completed a foundation degree in a relevant subject and have developed a substantial insight into, and a passion for, the agricultural industry.

Progression to the BSc (Hons) programme will enable you to amplify those academic and interpersonal skills acquired on your foundation degree, whilst also developing new critical thinking skills required of agricultural graduates.

You will, for example, evaluate key advances in agricultural sciences and technologies and analyse their contribution towards sustainable development such as improved food security and integrity, whilst reducing the environmental impact of the food-chain. As well as environmental improvement, you will also consider the role of strategic management and leadership on developing economic and social viability in agri-businesses and communities.

Sessions will take an inter-disciplinary approach, allowing for the interactions between livestock and crop production to be explored on a national and international scale whilst maintaining the flexibility for you to explore a chosen sector.

Upon graduation, you will be equipped with the academic and communication skills required to enter a graduate role in the agricultural industry, or progress to postgraduate (MSc or PhD) study.

Course Features

• Training on our commercial farm — a regional centre for agricultural education

• Developing research skills using new state-of-the-art technologies, including our Lely Astronaut A5 automated robotic milking systems and Data Hub

• Vertical farming unit and hydroponic glasshouse

• Research projects run by the Institute of Sustainability & Food Innovation (IoSFI) and the Reaseheath Sustainability Committee

• Field trips and study for additional industry-recognised qualifications

Careers

• Farm Management

• Farm and Environmental Consultancy

• Animal Health Advisory & Sales

• Animal Genetics Advisory & Sales

• Farm Business Analyst

• Vet Technician

• Agronomist

• Vertical Farm or Glasshouse Manager

• Research and Development

• Lecturer/Education

• Progression to MSc or PhD study

Dissertation

• Precision Technology
• Advances in Agricultural Science
• Sustainable Development
• Agri-Business Planning & Strategy*
• Leadership & Management for Sustainability*

*Denotes optional module

Assessments are designed to encourage both academic and workplace skill development. They include a wide range of coursework-based assessments in both independent and collaborative formats. Coursework may take many forms including essays, reports, data processing, presentations, academic posters, lab-reports, seminar discussions, literature reviews and portfolios.

Your dissertation module will include a research proposal and dissertation thesis.

Assessments will range in size and will be spread throughout the year to give you the greatest level of support and feedback whilst maintaining an even, manageable workload.