Taught course

Food Security (Distance Learning)

Institution
Lancaster University · Lancaster Environment Centre
Qualifications
MScPGDip

Entry requirements

2:1 Hons degree (UK or equivalent) in Environmental Science, Biological Sciences, Ecology, Agriculture, Soil Sciences, Geography or a similar degree. An undergraduate degree is not a prerequisite for practitioners working in the food supply chain as we recognise prior learning and experience.

We may also consider non-standard applicants, please contact us for information.

If you have studied outside of the UK, we would advise you to check our list of international qualifications before submitting your application.

Months of entry

February

Course content

Our Masters programme will equip you with the specialist skills and knowledge to engage with one of the most significant challenges currently facing a growing human population: making and supplying enough food for all to sustain an active healthy lifestyle.

Our Masters in Food Security (Distance Learning) is a distance learning programme designed for people with an interest in the global food system and for professionals in the food supply industry. This exciting course explores important issues related to food security, focusing on production, distribution, and waste.

The course is highly flexible so that you can fit study around your day job. Teaching is done largely online; all materials are supplied and you can work through them at your own pace. You will also have the opportunity to meet tutors and fellow students at short workshops during the year.

To gain an MSc you need to complete eight modules, and a significant dissertation project. The programme starts with an introductory module every February, which covers a broad range of issues related to food security. After that, you will develop a breadth of knowledge and depth of expertise by studying an additional seven modules. These modules cover a range of topics and will allow you to develop specialist knowledge of the factors impacting upon food security and environmental effects on food production.

Alongside topics such as crop production science and ethical food systems, you will take study skills modules such as a literature review. These will introduce you to a higher level of research skills which are essential to your dissertation project and when exploring new opportunities within your career.

Finally, you will cement your learning and put theory into practice in a major research project. Your dissertation will be guided by a supervisor from Lancaster and will normally be undertaken with an industry partner. This module will develop a range of transferable, highly employable skills. You will enhance your planning and written presentation skills, learn to concisely and effectively communicate complex concepts and ideas, as well as learn to handle and present quantitative and qualitative information and data.

Undertaking these modules and research project will ensure you have the breadth and depth of knowledge required to support your career. Upon graduation, you will have a range of specialist skills, advanced knowledge, and experience, allowing you to engage with and tackle the food challenges of the 21st century. By completing the programme, you will be equipped to make informed decisions, progress in your career, affect change in culture and best practice, or continue into PhD study and research.

If you enrol at MSc level you may exit early with an interim award at PGCert or PGDip level.

Information for international students

We may ask you to provide a recognised English language qualification, dependent upon your nationality and where you have studied previously.

We normally require an IELTS (Academic) Test with an overall score of at least 6.5, and a minimum of 6.0 in each element of the test. We also consider other English language qualifications.

Contact: Admissions Team +44 (0) 1524 592032 or email pgadmissions@lancaster.ac.uk

Fees and funding

Learn more at our fees and funding page.

Qualification, course duration and attendance options

  • MSc
    full time
    12 months
    • Distance learningis available for this qualification
  • PGDip
    full time
    12 months
    • Distance learningis available for this qualification
    part time
    36 months
    • Distance learningis available for this qualification

Course contact details

Name
Postgraduate Admissions
Email
pgadmissions@lancaster.ac.uk
Phone
+44 (0)1524 592032