Sustainable Agriculture (QA only), BSc (Plumpton College)

Sustainable Agricultural Management (BSc)

This accelerated BSc program provides students with the practical, holistic, and critical skills needed to manage sustainable agricultural systems in the rapidly changing agri-food landscape. Addressing the challenges post-Brexit and in response to climate change, the program equips students to contribute effectively to global food security, sustainability, and resource management, helping to shape the future of food production and agricultural practices.

Key Learning Outcomes:

• Develop a comprehensive understanding of current agricultural management techniques.
• Gain skills in evaluating emerging agricultural trends and sustainable land management.
• Improve communication and entrepreneurial problem-solving skills, essential for leadership in the agri-food sector.

Course Highlights:

• Accelerated Degree: Complete the program in two years with a fast-paced, rewarding experience.
• Blended Delivery: One week of campus attendance per month, allowing flexibility for industry professionals.
• Industry Expertise: Insights and guidance from agricultural experts and specialists.
• Focus on Sustainability: Emphasis on sustainable farming practices, climate change adaptation, and planetary restoration.

Programme Structure

Year 1 Compulsory Courses:

• Agronomy & Cropping Systems
• Introduction to Livestock Science and Production
• Introduction to the Rural Economy
• Nutrients and Water
• Principles of Machinery
• Waste Management, Recycling, and Energy
• Integrated Crop Production
• Livestock Production
• Agricultural Mechanisation and Technology
• Sustainable Soil Management
• Introduction to GIS
• Ecology, Biodiversity, and Natural Resources

Year 2 Compulsory Courses:

• Sustainable Business Management
• Sustainable Farming Communities
• Sustainable Horticultural Technologies
• Advanced Global Livestock and Forage Systems
• Agricultural Business Planning
• Computers in Sustainable Agriculture
• Emerging Technologies and Precision Cropping Systems
• Farming Across Scales for Food Security
• Sustainable Agriculture and Climate Change
• Research Methods and Statistics
• Honours Project

Workload and Expectations

• Full-time commitment with a workload comparable to a full-time job.
• Modules are worth 15 to 30 credits, requiring 150 to 300 study hours per module.

Career Opportunities

Graduates can pursue careers in:

• Agricultural Consultancy
• Supply Chain Management
• Policy Development
• Sustainable Farming and Food Security
• Agri-Tech and Precision Agriculture

Work Placements

Students are encouraged to secure employment early in the program and integrate industry placements to gain practical experience, enhancing employability and real-world expertise.

Support Services

• Career Services: Plumpton College’s dedicated Careers team offers both on-campus and online support.
• Academic Support: Resources are available for students facing learning challenges.
• Library and Learning Technology: Access to over 8,000 resources in land-based studies and academic journals, with a focus on technology to enrich the learning experience.

Program Collaboration

This course is offered in partnership with Plumpton College, located in East Sussex, and is designed for those passionate about sustainable agriculture and eager to contribute to the future of food security and environmental restoration.