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Course description

Gain the skills and knowledge to keep feeding the world. As the population grows so do the challenges we face, and the need for creative solutions from agricultural specialists.

The demand for safe, wholesome food produced in an environmentally sensitive manner is a major political issue for national governments and internationally within global commodity markets. Global population is set to rise to 9 billion by 2050*, which will substantially increase the demand for food.

As a recognised centre of research excellence that is closely engaged with the industries, professions and organisations involved in the global agri-food chain and the UK rural economy, we can help you develop the skills to play a key role managing global agricultural production systems.

MSc students will learn to:

• Understand global crop and animal production systems and their impact on environmental quality.
• Produce management solutions that take into account the balance between crop and animal production, economic and social needs and environmental protection.
• Communicate ideas and technical management solutions to different audiences.
• Assess the quality of farmland environments and create strategies to enhance landscape and wildlife potential in different geographic locations.
• Formulate, test and draw conclusions from hypotheses.
• Solve problems through novel research techniques.

* Food Matters: Towards a Strategy for the 21st Century; UK Cabinet Office report, 2008

Funding

The full-time and two year part-time courses are eligible for a postgraduate loan.

Block-based study

Modules are delivered in one week (and in a select few modules two week) blocks on campus. You will know in advance which weeks require physical attendance as they’ll be scheduled on the timetable. In addition to this, you will be required to allocate time for self-study to complete the assignments associated with each of the modules. Some modules may also include research and/or exam elements, these are also highlighted on the timetable.