Agriculture and Development

You will critically examine how agriculture – including horticulture – and agricultural research are addressing major challenges and opportunities in agricultural intensification and environmental sustainability, particularly in tropical and subtropical regions of the developing world.

With an emphasis on farming systems, you’ll explore:

• the role and contributions of agriculture and horticulture to human development, food and nutritional security, livelihoods and ecosystem services.
• the biophysical, economic and social environments in which agriculture is practised.
• advances in agricultural technology, research and practise in response to challenges such as poverty, climate change and environmental sustainability.
• how to enhance the relevance, quality and impact of agricultural research and farmer-led innovation processes.

Choose MSc Agriculture and Development at the University of Reading

You will:

• join the highest-ranking UK university for Agriculture and Forestry (QS World University Rankings by Subject 2022 - Agriculture & Forestry). We’re ranked 11th in the world, and are the only UK university in the top 50.
• develop skills in strategic thinking, quantitative and qualitative analysis, communication and teamwork in biological and social sciences.

Joining this programme means you’ll also be joining the Graduate Institute of International Development, Agriculture and Economics, based in the School of Agriculture, Policy and Development, where we are committed to empowering change through our teaching and research. Our academics tackle some of the world’s most pressing issues across their respective fields of expertise, and our mission is to make a difference in the context of the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals. Through the MSc Agriculture and Development programme, you’ll be particularly equipped to help implement the goals to end hunger and promote sustainable agriculture.

Tuition fee information

The fees listed are for full-time study, unless otherwise stated. Fee information will be confirmed in offer letters sent out to successful applicants. You can find further information, including information for part-time study, through our dedicated fees and funding page.

EU student fees

With effect from 1 August 2021, new EU students will pay international tuition fees. For exceptions, please read the UK government's guidance for EU students.

Additional costs

Some courses will require additional payments for field trips and extra resources. You will also need to budget for your accommodation and living costs. See our information on living costs for more details.

Financial support for your studies

You may be eligible for a scholarship or bursary to help pay for your study. Students from the UK may also be eligible for a student loan to help cover these costs. See our fees and funding information for more information on what's available.

The Graduate Institute of International Development, Agriculture and Economics also offers a number of scholarships.