Agricultural consultant : Entry requirements

A degree in agriculture or another relevant subject is usually required. The following subjects may increase your chances:

• crop and plant science;
• horticulture;
• soil science;
• agricultural engineering;
• environmental science;
• animal or biological science.

Studying an element of business management within these degree schemes can be advantageous, particularly if you want to enter the business side of consultancy.

Entry is sometimes possible with an HND, though it is likely that this will need to be backed up with considerable relevant experience. Agriculture and horticulture sciences are the subjects considered most relevant.

To enter the technical stream a Masters in a related subject such as animal production or seed and crop technology may be advantageous. A PhD may also help, especially if your research is in an area in which you will offer specialist advice.

It may be possible to enter into the business side of consultancy with a business degree backed up with knowledge and experience of the agricultural industry. Postgraduate business qualifications are not likely to give a particular advantage.

A broad knowledge of agriculture and farm management is essential, as is experience of working in the industry. Without relevant experience it is difficult to find a way into an advisory or consultancy post, but many opportunities exist to gain voluntary, and sometimes paid, work experience.

Candidates need to show evidence of the following:

• communication skills, for dealings with clients and maintenance of relationships;
• marketing and sales skills, for the development of new business opportunities and the building of a client base;
• technical and analytical skills with the ability to explain findings clearly;
• the ability to work on your own initiative and as part of a team;
• the ability to manage budgets;
• good attention to detail and accurate record keeping.

A driving licence is considered essential.

Some of the larger agricultural consultancies offer graduate recruitment schemes, generally focusing on farm management and agricultural business. These are usually advertised as they become available. Speculative applications are often essential for trainee jobs and work experience opportunities, as many of these vacancies go unadvertised. The development of a strong CV and covering letter is, therefore, essential for these opportunities, along with the ability to develop a network of contacts.

Entry into agricultural consultancy and advisory work is competitive. Try to gain practical experience of farm management, rural surveying or planning, or other types of agricultural work, and research potential employers.

For more information, see work experience and internships and search courses and research.