Degree Overview:

The Agricultural Technology degree

at Queen's University Belfast provides students with a comprehensive understanding of modern agricultural practices, balancing sustainable production practices with the demands of the modern agricultural industry. The program focuses on three key areas:

Sustainable Production Systems:

Students gain knowledge of crop and animal production systems in the context of sustainability, encompassing scientific, economic, and business principles. This includes an analysis of recent developments in the field and their applicability.

Impact of Global Policies:

The program explores the impact of global, European, and regional policies on the agricultural industry, equipping students to adapt to evolving regulations and market demands.

Environmental Management:

Students develop the skillset to assess the environmental impact of agricultural practices and devise and implement effective management strategies.

Objectives:

Graduates will be equipped to contribute to the development and implementation of sustainable agricultural practices.
They will possess a strong understanding of the relationship between agricultural production, environmental impact, and economic viability.
Graduates will be able to adapt to the evolving regulatory landscape and utilize technology to optimize production methods.
They will develop essential skills in critical analysis, problem-solving, and communication, preparing them for successful careers in the agricultural sector.

Outline:

Course content:

The program focuses on the development of both formal education and practical experience. Students participate in a 16-week degree-related work placement, allowing them to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world scenarios.

Modules:

Year 1: Applied Animal Science, Mechanisation and Farm Buildings, Applied Crop Science, Introduction to Business and Research Methods, Enterprise Technology.
Year 2: Agri-food Business Marketing & Management, Work Placement, Livestock Production and Management, Crop Production Systems.
Year 3: Project Work (Ag Tech), Policies for Environmental Sustainability, Business Innovation and Entrepreneurship, Advances in Crop and Animal Science and Technology, Farm Animal Health and Welfare, Global Issues in Agriculture.

Structure:

Stages 1 and 2 are primarily delivered at Greenmount Campus, Antrim, where students participate in the operation and management of the college farm.
Stage 3 is delivered at Queen's University Belfast.
The program includes guest lectures from industry experts, providing valuable insights into current trends and challenges.

Assessment:

A variety of assessment methods are employed, including coursework, written assignments, project work, and end-of-semester examinations.
The specific assessment methods for each module are outlined in the Student Handbook.
Emphasis is placed on reflection, self-evaluation, and continuous improvement to enhance learning outcomes.

Teaching:

The program is delivered by a team of highly qualified and experienced lecturers, researchers, and industry professionals.
Learning environments are designed to be interactive and engaging, fostering critical thinking and collaborative learning.
Students have access to a range of support services, including personal tutors, advisors of study, and peer mentors.

Careers:

Graduates from the program are well-equipped for a wide range of careers in the agricultural sector, including:
Marketing and sales
Production and management
Technical advice
Research and development
Consulting
Government agencies
The program provides a strong foundation for further postgraduate study, leading to specialized careers in agricultural research, education, or policy development.

Other:

The program emphasizes the development of transferable skills, such as problem-solving, communication, and teamwork, which are highly valued by employers across various industries.
The program has a strong track record of graduate employability, with many alumni securing positions in leading agricultural and agri-food businesses.

Tuition Fees and Payment Information:

Northern Ireland (NI) 1 £4,750 Republic of Ireland (ROI) 2 £4,750 England, Scotland or Wales (GB) 1 £9,250 EU Other 3 £25,300 International £25,300 1EU citizens in the EU Settlement Scheme, with settled status, will be charged the NI or GB tuition fee based on where they are ordinarily resident. Students who are ROI nationals resident in GB will be charged the GB fee. 2 EU students who are ROI nationals resident in ROI are eligible for NI tuition fees. 3 EU Other students (excludes Republic of Ireland nationals living in GB, NI or ROI) are charged tuition fees in line with international fees. The tuition fees quoted above are for the 2024/25 academic year and are a guide only. In addition, all tuition fees will be subject to an annual inflationary increase in each year of the course. Fees quoted relate to a single year of study unless explicitly stated otherwise. Tuition fee rates are calculated based on a student’s tuition fee status and generally increase annually by inflation. How tuition fees are determined is set out in the Student Finance Framework. Additional course costs Year 1 students on the Agricultural Technology pathway must buy a laboratory coat, boiler suit, waterproof coat and leggings, safety wellington boots and safety boots. In year 2 students may choose to go on a Brussels Study Tour costing £250. All Students Depending on the programme of study, there may be extra costs which are not covered by tuition fees, which students will need to consider when planning their studies. Students can borrow books and access online learning resources from any Queen's library. If students wish to purchase recommended texts, rather than borrow them from the University Library, prices per text can range from £30 to £100. Students should also budget between £30 to £75 per year for photocopying, memory sticks and printing charges. Students undertaking a period of work placement or study abroad, as either a compulsory or optional part of their programme, should be aware that they will have to fund additional travel and living costs. If a programme includes a major project or dissertation, there may be costs associated with transport, accommodation and/or materials. The amount will depend on the project chosen. There may also be additional costs for printing and binding. Students may wish to consider purchasing an electronic device; costs will vary depending on the specification of the model chosen. There are also additional charges for graduation ceremonies, examination resits and library fines. How do I fund my study? There are different tuition fee and student financial support arrangements for students from Northern Ireland, those from England, Scotland and Wales (Great Britain), and those from the rest of the European Union. Information on funding options and financial assistance for undergraduate students is available at www.qub.ac.uk/Study/Undergraduate/Fees-and-scholarships/. Scholarships Each year, we offer a range of scholarships and prizes for new students. Information on scholarships available. International Scholarships Information on scholarships for international students, is available at www.qub.ac.uk/Study/international-students/international-scholarships.

Program start date	Application deadline
2024-09-01	-

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Agricultural Technology

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