Agricultural Management

Course Level: Foundation Degree Course Duration: 2 Years FT / 3 Years PT Entry Requirements

160 points are required in total, which equate to one of the following:

• 2 full A-levels at grade C or above, or equivalent combination of two grades, with at least one in a science discipline
• MPP profile at Level 3 BTEC Extended Diploma
• M at Level 3 City and Guilds Extended Diploma
• MM at Level 3 BTEC Diploma
• Appropriate NVQ at level 3 or
• An Access qualification or
• Qualifications deemed equivalent to the above
• In addition you will need supporting GCSEs at grade C or above in Maths and English or Level 2 equivalents.

Students over the age of 21 and with relevant vocational experience or transferable knowledge and skills may be assessed on merit.

Programme Aims

The FdSc Agricultural Management is a multidisciplinary programme of core modules designed to develop the knowledge and skills required by those who may go on to manage agricultural enterprises and related rural businesses. It combines a thorough understanding of crop and livestock production methods with a sound appreciation of the scientific, legal, economic and environmental factors influencing the industry, and covers a range of issues related to diversification and the environment in depth. It also seeks to develop the business knowledge and communication skills to enable graduates to make informed management desisions and to develop confident and productive business relationships. The programme provides a strong basis for employment or self-employment in agriculture and related rural businesses, as well as for entry onto full honours degree programmes in associated disciplines.

The programme is designed to meet the current and future needs of the industry. The modules have been created so that students can develop general agricultural skills as well as the opportunity to pursue specialist interest areas. There are opportunities for students to develop their individual personal skills throughout the programme.

Programme Structure

The programme will be delivered using a wide range of methods ranging from lectures, practical laboratory sessions, field visits, practical field and livestock sessions and tutorials. Every opportunity is taken to use the Bicton College farm and estate for learning.

What You Are Likely To Study

Year 1

• Business Enterprise
• Professional Practice
• Crop and Grass Production
• Livestock Production
• Agricultural Science
• Planning, Law and the Environment

Year 2

• Business Operations
• Independent Research Project
• Crop Producation Management
• Livestock Management
• Rural Business Management
• Environment and Land Management

Assessment

Your progress will be monitored by a variety of assessment techniques including a planned programme of written assignments, presentations, group work, practical assessments and in-class tests. Many modules will also involve formal examination. An independent research project and 20 working days of independently arranged work experience must be completed as part of this programme.

Progression

Successful students may progress onto the one-year BSc (Hons) Rural Business Management top-up at Duchy College, Stoke Climsland (part of Cornwall College). Please note there is a deadline for progression applications and places may be subject to availability. Career opportunities may arise in farm management, business management, government agencies and the allied industries.

UCAS Insitution Code P60 UCAS Programme Code D404 Awarding Body Plymouth University