Introduction to the Future Food Sustainability MSc

The MSc Future Food Sustainability at Cranfield University is the UK's first programme blending technology, science, strategic foresight, and management skills to equip students for a career in sustainable food systems. This course is designed to respond to urgent industry, institutional, and government needs for individuals who can meet the complex, multi-factorial issues of global future food supply.

Overview of the Course

• Start date: Full-time - October, part-time - October
• Duration: One year full-time, two-three years part-time
• Delivery: Taught modules (80 credits/800 hours), Group projects (40 credits/400 hours), Individual project (60 credits/600 hours)
• Qualification: MSc, PgDip, PgCert
• Study type: Full-time / Part-time
• Campus: Cranfield campus

Career Opportunities

Graduates are uniquely positioned to drive real-world change in the global food sector. The MSc opens doors to management roles within industry, government, non-governmental organisations, and research companies/institutes. Alumni are already shaping the future of the food system in organisations like the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), Kellogg's, Carlsberg group, Deloitte, ADM, SSP Food plc.

Course Details

The course comprises eight compulsory assessed modules, a group project, and an individual research project. Modules include lectures, practical sessions, and tutorials.

Compulsory Modules

1. Principles of Sustainability: Introduces frameworks for resolving economic, environmental, and social challenges, including the Sustainable Development Goals, Natural Capital, Ecosystem Services, and the Circular Economy.
2. Technologies for Seeds and Crop Protection: Covers the role of technologies in advancing sustainable crop production, including crop breeding, seed technology, and crop protection.
3. Soil Systems: Focuses on the science of soil systems, including soil functions, ecosystem goods and services, and the impact of land management decisions on soil health.
4. Food Chain Resilience: Introduces key aspects of supply chain management critical to improving the resilience of the global food supply network.
5. Agricultural Informatics: Provides practical applications and tools for developing, managing, and analysing 'Big Data' to deliver food security and explores barriers to the adoption of data-driven technologies.
6. Sustainability and Environmental Assessment: Teaches tools for evaluating the sustainability of complex technologies and industrial processes, including life cycle analysis and carbon footprinting.
7. Water and Sustainable Agrifood Systems: Considers the water requirements of crop and livestock systems, evaluation of water-related impacts, and management and technological solutions to minimize water-related impacts.
8. Strategic Foresight: Introduces methods for identifying, analysing, and communicating insights about the future, including horizon scanning, trend research, and scenario planning.

Teaching Team

The course is led by Dr. Natalia Falagan Sama and Dr. Carol Verheecke-Vaessen, with contributions from other Cranfield staff and visiting lecturers from industry.

Accreditation

The MSc is accredited by the Institution of Agricultural Engineers.

Fees and Funding

• Home (Full-time): £12,370
• Home (Part-time): £1,835 per year
• Overseas (Full-time): £18,720
• Overseas (Part-time): £18,720
• Deposit: £1,000 for Home students, £3,000 for Overseas students
• Funding opportunities include ASEAN-UK: Women in STEM Scholarships, Commonwealth Shared Scholarship Scheme, Cranfield University GREAT Scholarship, Master's Loan from Student Finance England, and more.

Entry Requirements

• A UK lower second-class undergraduate degree with honours or equivalent international qualification in a relevant science or social science-based discipline.
• English language proficiency: IELTS Academic 6.5 overall and 5.5 in all skill components, or equivalent.

Conclusion

The Future Food Sustainability MSc at Cranfield University offers a unique blend of technology, science, and management skills, equipping graduates for careers in sustainable food systems. With its strong industry connections, accreditation, and funding opportunities, this programme is ideal for those passionate about contributing to a more sustainable food future.

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Overview:

Cranfield University is a postgraduate-focused institution specializing in science, technology, engineering, and management. It is renowned for its strong industry links and practical approach to education.

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Services Offered:

Cranfield University offers a wide range of services to students, including:

Careers and Employability Service:

Provides guidance and support for career planning and job searching.

IT Services:

Offers access to computer labs, software, and technical support.

Libraries:

Provides access to extensive collections of books, journals, and online resources.

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Student Life and Campus Experience:

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Key Reasons to Study There:

Strong Industry Links:

Cranfield University has close relationships with numerous organizations, providing students with opportunities for internships, placements, and networking.

Practical Approach to Education:

The university emphasizes hands-on learning and real-world applications, preparing students for successful careers.

World-Class Facilities:

Cranfield boasts state-of-the-art facilities, including laboratories, workshops, and research centers.

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Academic Programs:

Cranfield University offers a variety of postgraduate programs, including:

Taught Degrees:

MSc programs in various fields, such as aerospace, energy, and management.

Research Degrees:

PhD and MPhil programs for students seeking to conduct advanced research.

Apprenticeships:

Level 7 apprenticeships for professionals seeking to enhance their skills and knowledge.

Professional Development:

Short courses and executive development programs for individuals and organizations.

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Other:

• Cranfield University has two campuses: Cranfield Campus and Cranfield University at Shrivenham.
• The university is committed to sustainability and has a strong track record in environmental research.
• Cranfield University is ranked highly in various international rankings, including those for sustainability and engineering.