Program Overview

Pre-Tertiary Certificate in Agriculture

The Pre-Tertiary Certificate in Agriculture is a two-semester course focusing on agricultural Biology and Chemistry. Students will be introduced to rural sciences and considered as probationary students. By studying for this course, students will learn about the basic science, concepts, and practice of farming and cultivation, which will serve as the foundation for the Diploma itself.

Course Overview

Topics covered range from principles of agricultural chemistry, agricultural systematics, and agricultural biotechnology, to agricultural biochemistry, applied agricultural biotechnology, and anatomy and physiology of crops.

Admission Criteria

• General Entry Requirements: Refer to the list of country-specific qualifications.
• Notes and any other requirements:
  • Applicants shall be in possession of passes in the Secondary Education Certificate Examination at Grade 5 or better in the following:
    1. Any TWO subjects from English Language, Mathematics, or Maltese.
    2. Any ONE subject from Chemistry, Biology, Environmental Studies, Agribusiness, Geography, Physics, Economics, Business Studies, or Information Technology.
    3. Any other subject.
  • Applicants not in possession of the qualifications indicated above but in possession of other qualifications in an area of study related to Agriculture may also be considered.
  • Adult Learners (mature applicants) must be in possession of those qualifications and/or experience that would satisfy the Board that they have reached the academic standard required to follow the Course with profit.

Program Structure

Year 1

• Semester 1
  • Compulsory Units:
    • RFS0070: Communication Technology and Skills (2 ECTS)
    • RFS0100: Agricultural Systematics (4 ECTS)
    • RFS0200: Principles of Agricultural Chemistry (4 ECTS)
    • RFS0290: Laboratory Techniques in Agricultural Chemistry (4 ECTS)
• Semester 2
  • Compulsory Units:
    • RFS0210: Agricultural Biochemistry (4 ECTS)
    • RFS0400: Extension Service and Rural Society (4 ECTS)
    • RFS0500: Anatomy and Physiology of Crops (4 ECTS)
    • RFS0600: Anatomy and Physiology of Farm Animals (4 ECTS)

Requirements for Progression

Requirements for regular progression to the Diploma in Agriculture: 30 ECTS credits.

Learning Outcomes

By the end of the course, students will be able to:

• Follow the Diploma Course with the necessary foundational knowledge.
• Understand the science behind rural activities.
• Present a short report on an agricultural topic.
• Deliver a presentation on an agricultural topic.
• Research about agriculture and understand the basic principles.

Tuition Fees

• Total Tuition Fees for Non-EU Applicants: Eur 5,400.

Governance

This programme of study is governed by the General Regulations for University Undergraduate Awards, 2019, and by the Bye-Laws for the award of the Pre-Tertiary Certificate in Agriculture under the auspices of the Institute of Earth Systems.