Crop Production (Horticulture) MSc
Writtle Campus, United Kingdom
MSc Crop Production (Horticulture)
Writtle University College (ARU Writtle)
Horticulture & Crop Production
Program Overview: MSc Crop Production (Horticulture)
The MSc Crop Production (Horticulture) at Writtle University College (now part of Anglia Ruskin University) explores the expanding global industry of production horticulture, where vast amounts of fresh food and flowers are grown and transported worldwide. The program addresses critical challenges including population growth, climate change, and the need for sustainable growing systems, with soil, water, and resource management as key considerations.
Delivered at the picturesque Writtle campus in Essex, just two miles from Chelmsford and with excellent transport links to London, you will have access to a research glasshouse, campus farm, and the Postharvest Unit, which undertakes research and trials with commercial companies. The teaching combines theory, practical experience, industrial visits, and presentations from industry experts.
This program attracts both home and international students from many different countries, providing a stimulating and diverse environment in which to study crop production. Teaching staff have developed close links with industry on a worldwide basis, and their research and consultancy work underpins the curriculum throughout.
Key Program Highlights
- Access to on-campus research glasshouses, a working farm, and a dedicated Postharvest Unit for hands-on learning and trial work
- Strong industry partnerships with organisations such as Syngenta, Tozer Seeds, Palmstead Nurseries, and iGrowing for dissertation projects
- Opportunity to undertake original research in the UK or abroad, with the option to base dissertation work in an industrial setting
- Part of Anglia Ruskin University, which holds a Gold rating in the Teaching Excellence Framework and was named THE University of the Year 2023
Curriculum & Modules
The MSc Crop Production (Horticulture) requires 180 UK credits for the named award. A common first semester provides an introduction to all aspects of crop production, with students contextualising assignments to their chosen area. Option modules in semester two allow further specialisation before undertaking the dissertation in the third trimester.
Horticultural Production (Postgraduate)
30 CreditsEvaluates the factors determining the level and location of horticultural production in relation to climatic and agro-economic factors. Examines changing cropping systems, production techniques, global trade sustainability, and environmental considerations including energy consumption and non-renewable resources.
Postharvest Systems Management
30 CreditsExamines ways of reducing food loss and waste across the supply chain, including at retail and consumer levels, for a range of edible and non-edible crops. Covers the maintenance and modification of crop quality after harvest, which is particularly important for perishable fresh produce.
Global Trade and Supply Chain Management
15 CreditsFocuses on the design and development of global supply chains for perishable produce and related packaging issues. Students study logistics, cool chain management, and supply chain trends in the context of UK, European, and multinational retailers, as well as implications for emerging economies.
Crop Production Technology (Postharvest)
15 CreditsProvides a deeper understanding of the factors which determine modern approaches to crop production technology. Covers the latest advances in production techniques, growing systems, and postharvest handling methods relevant to horticultural crops.
Experiential Learning
15 CreditsAllows students to investigate the application of knowledge and techniques at the forefront of their discipline in a professional practice setting. Students work with a high level of autonomy on an industry-related problem, critically evaluating current research to develop novel and creative solutions.
Dissertation
60 CreditsSupports students in the preparation and submission of a Masters-level dissertation or project involving 20 weeks of student commitment. A conventional dissertation will contain a maximum of 15,000 words and may be undertaken in collaboration with commercial partners or at an institution abroad.
Elective Modules
Admission Requirements
Admissions to the MSc Crop Production (Horticulture) follow the standard postgraduate policies at Writtle University College (ARU Writtle). The program is designed for those who already have an interest in crop production as well as those who wish to develop or update their existing knowledge. Contact Uni4Edu for guidance on your eligibility and to begin your application.
Academic Requirements
- Undergraduate DegreeA first honours degree at 2:2 or above in a related subject such as horticulture, agriculture, floristry, or environmental sciences
- Alternative QualificationsA first honours degree in another discipline with significant work experience in horticulture, agriculture, or related areas will also be considered
- International QualificationsInternational students must hold qualifications equivalent to the UK minimum entry requirements, assessed using UK ENIC (formerly NARIC) criteria
- Professional ExperienceApplicants with extensive relevant industrial experience may be considered even if outside the stipulated academic guidelines
- European ApplicantsApplications from European students will be guided by the European Credit Transfer System (ECTS)
English Language Requirements
- IELTS (Academic)Overall score of 6.5 with a minimum of 5.5 in all elements
- TOEFL iBTOverall score of 88 with minimum 17 in Writing and Listening, 18 in Reading, and 20 in Speaking
- Pre-sessional EnglishIf you have lower scores, you may be accepted onto a Pre-sessional English Language course leading to entry on the program
Required Documents
Application Deadlines
For personalized admission guidance, document verification, and application support, please contact Uni4Edu
Scholarships & Funding
Writtle University College (ARU Writtle) and Anglia Ruskin University offer a range of scholarships and bursaries to support postgraduate students. Contact Uni4Edu for personalised advice on funding opportunities and eligibility for your specific circumstances.
ARU Alumni Scholarship
20% tuition fee reductionAvailable to graduates of Anglia Ruskin University or Writtle University College who return to study a postgraduate degree. This discount is applied automatically to eligible students.
ARU International Scholarship
Merit-based scholarships available to international students enrolling on full-time postgraduate taught programs at ARU. Eligibility and amounts may vary by academic year.
External Funding Opportunities
VariesA range of external scholarships and funding bodies support postgraduate study in agriculture and horticulture in the UK. Uni4Edu can help you identify and apply for relevant funding sources.
For detailed tuition fee information, please contact Uni4Edu — we will guide you through the costs and available funding options for this program.
Career Prospects
On successful completion of the MSc Crop Production (Horticulture), graduates possess the knowledge and skills to gain employment with crop producers and in management positions with major import/export organisations. There are also opportunities to undertake further research or pursue doctoral studies in related fields.
Potential Career Roles
Industry Partners & Potential Employers
Rankings & Recognition
Writtle University College is a specialist institution with a strong reputation in agriculture, horticulture, and animal management. As a small, specialist college now part of Anglia Ruskin University, it does not feature in major global university league tables such as QS or THE. However, ARU has received significant national recognition for teaching quality and student experience.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Agriculture & Horticulture | Specialist Reputation | Among the UK's leading land-based institutions |
| Postharvest Technology | Industry Recognition | Nationally recognised research centre |
| Land-Based Education | Heritage & Reputation | Established 1893 — over 130 years of expertise |
| Overall University (ARU) | QS World Rankings | Contact Uni4Edu for current data |
How to Apply
Applying for this program is easy with Uni4Edu. Our team will guide you through every step of the process — from document preparation to final enrolment.
Contact Uni4Edu
Reach out to our team via email or phone. We will assess your profile and confirm your eligibility for this program.
Prepare Your Documents
Our advisors will provide you with a personalised checklist of required documents and help you prepare your application package.
Submit Your Application
Uni4Edu will submit your application on your behalf and keep you updated on its progress throughout the review period.
Receive Your Offer
Once accepted, we will help you understand your offer, arrange visa support if needed, and guide you through the enrolment process.
Similar Programmes
Bachelor's Degree
48 months
Plant Health
Kwantlen Polytechnic University, Surrey, Canada
Earliest Intake
October 2025
Gross Tuition
24841 C$
Certificate & Diploma
24 months
Horticulture Technology (With Optional Specializations)
Kwantlen Polytechnic University, Surrey, Canada
Earliest Intake
October 2025
Gross Tuition
24841 C$
Bachelor's Degree
48 months
Bachelor of Horticulture (Turkish)
Sakarya University of Applied Sciences, Serdivan, Turkey
Earliest Intake
July 2026
Gross Tuition
400 $
Bachelor's Degree
48 months
Horticulture (Plant Science & Technology) BSc
Scotland’s Rural College (SRUC), Edinburgh, United Kingdom
Earliest Intake
July 2026
Gross Tuition
16000 £
Bachelor's Degree
36 months
Horticulture (3 Years) BSc
Writtle University College, Chelmsford, United Kingdom
Earliest Intake
February 2026
Gross Tuition
16700 £
Uni4Edu AI Assistant
