MSc Sustainable Agriculture and Food Security

Entry requirements

An Honours degree at upper second level. Mature candidates with significant relevant work experience and lower academic qualifications may also be considered for entry, following interview with the course manager. Students with other qualifications, including overseas awards and alternative English language qualifications, are advised to contact Admissions to discuss the suitability of their award.

Months of entry

October, February

Course content

Overview

Increasingly large swathes of the globe are beset by resource constraints and environmental uncertainty, which requires a radical shift in our production and consumption habits. This course will equip you with the specialised knowledge and skills that are urgently needed by governments, NGOs and commercial companies as they respond to some of today’s biggest challenges.

If you are driven by a desire to shape public and political attitudes, this is the ideal environment in which to develop a strategic and operational mind-set in a way that will expand your own opinions and those of global decision-makers.

You will delve into critical issues such as the human exploitation of the Earth’s resources, poverty alleviation and food security, the ethical and cultural implications of policy development, the ecological basis for sustainable agricultural development, and critical capacity building approaches.

Our renowned lecturers and researchers will guide you through theoretical study and practical exercises that will prepare you for a successful career, from producing a magazine or a podcast through to organising a national conference.

Structure

The course may be studied full-time over 12 months or part-time over two years, staring either in September or February, comprising five core modules and three elective modules, followed by a Research Project carried out over the summer culminating in a review of a key topic and an academic paper.

You will gain a broader understanding of relevant issues through knowledge acquisition, intellectual enquiry, debate, and team/individual research.

In addition to lectures, you will participate in case studies, seminars and management projects. This approach fosters teamwork and complements individual study and student learning.

Modules

• 4002 Agriculture
• 4040 Sustainable Management of Soil and Water
• 4075 Research Project
• 4081 Agricultural and Rural Policy
• 4201 Poverty and Food Security
• 4250 International Rural Development

Plus a choice of THREE elective modules:

• 4082 Natural Resource Management
• 4083 Climate Change and Development
• 4202 Sustainable Agricultural Intensification
• 4203 Small Scale Farming and Local Food Supply
• 4238 Integrated Organic Systems

There are 2 intake points in September and February.

Information for international students

For students whose first language is not English, the University will accept International English Language Test (IELTS) with a minimum score of 6.5 in all elements. Students with other qualifications, including overseas awards and alternative English language qualifiications, should contact Admissions.

Fees and funding

Scholarships and bursaries are available - please check our website for further details.

Qualification and course duration

MSc