Program Overview

Agricultural Technology

Overview

The agricultural industry is undergoing an unprecedented period of change. Traditional reliance on production is being challenged through changes in government policy at local, national, European and global levels, as well as changes in consumer demand. Agricultural production now requires an understanding of these demands and other concerns regarding food quality and safety and the environmental impact of production methods in the short, medium and long term.

Course Structure

The degree has been developed in consultation with employers, industry and academics, to offer students a combined curriculum of formal education and practical experience, which is designed to enhance employability and graduate skills.

Stages 1 and 2 are mainly delivered at Greenmount Campus, where students are involved in the work and management of specific agricultural enterprises. Professional Studies students spend their third year on placement, and Stage 3 is mainly delivered at Queen's University Belfast.

Modules

Year 1

• Applied Animal Science (40 credits)
• Applied Crop Science (20 credits)
• Enterprise Technology (20 credits)
• Mechanisation and Farm Buildings (20 credits)
• Introduction to Business and Research Methods (20 credits)

Year 2

• Crop Production Systems (20 credits)
• Livestock Production and Management (40 credits)
• Agri-food Business Marketing & Management (40 credits)
• Work Placement (20 credits)

Year 3

• Project Work (Ag Tech) (20 credits)
• Global Issues in Agriculture (20 credits)
• Advances in Crop and Animal Science and Technology (20 credits)
• Farm Animal Health and Welfare (20 credits)
• Policies for Environmental Sustainability (20 credits)
• Business Innovation and Entrepreneurship (20 credits)

Entrance Requirements

A-level

• BBB including at least two relevant subjects (see list below) + GCSE Mathematics grade C/4
• OR
• ABB including a relevant subject (see list below) + GCSE Mathematics grade C/4

Irish Leaving Certificate

• H3H3H3H3H4H4/H3H3H3H3H3 including Higher Level grade H3 in two relevant subjects (see list below) + if not offered at Higher Level then Ordinary Level grade O4 in Mathematics
• OR
• H3H3H3H3H3H3/H2H3H3H3H3 including Higher Level grade H3 in a relevant subject (see list below) + if not offered at Higher Level then Ordinary Level grade O4 in Mathematics

BTEC Level 3 Extended/National Extended Diploma

• A relevant agriculture/science QCF Level 3 BTEC Extended Diploma (180 credits), with DDD + GCSE Chemistry grade C/4 or GCSE Double Award Science grades CC/44 + GCSE Mathematics grade C/4
• OR
• A relevant agriculture/science RQF Level 3 BTEC National Extended Diploma (1080 Guided Learning Hours (GLH)), with DDD + GCSE Chemistry grade C/4 or GCSE Double Award Science grades CC/44 + GCSE Mathematics grade C/4

Access/Foundation Course

• Successful completion of Access Course with an average of 65%. Must be relevant Access Course - normally Science based. GCSE Mathematics grade C/4 or equivalent in Access Course.

BTEC Higher National Certificate

• Successful completion of a relevant agriculture/science HNC with 1 Distinction and remainder Merits + GCSE Chemistry grade C/4 or GCSE Double Award Science grades CC/44 + GCSE Mathematics grade C/4

Graduate

• A minimum of a 2:2 Honours Degree, provided that subject specific requirements are met.

All applicants

• Relevant Subjects:
  • Agricultural Science
  • Biology
  • Chemistry
  • Computer Science
  • Digital Technology
  • Environmental Science/Technology
  • Geography
  • Geology
  • Home Economics
  • ICT
  • Life & Health Sciences
  • Mathematics
  • Physics
  • Physical Education
  • Psychology
  • Software Systems Development
  • Technology & Design
• Other subjects considered on an individual basis.

Career Prospects

Studying a degree in Agricultural Technology provides a wide range of graduate opportunities for students interested in the agricultural, agri-environmental and related industries.

The majority of our graduates will seek careers in the agricultural, agri-environment or agri-food sectors, in roles including; marketing/sales, production and management, technical advice, and research and development in commercial companies.

Tuition Fees

• Northern Ireland (NI): £4,855
• Republic of Ireland (ROI): £4,855
• England, Scotland or Wales (GB): £9,535
• EU Other: £25,300
• International: £25,300

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.

How to Apply

Application for admission to full-time undergraduate and sandwich courses at the University should normally be made through the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS). Full information can be obtained from the UCAS website at: www.ucas.com.