Course summary

This agricultural course delivers a thorough understanding of modern agricultural crop and animal production systems and the underlying scientific and technological principles to equip students to manage and support sustainable agricultural businesses in the complex and dynamic rural economy. This is a very broad and challenging remit, and consequently the course is designed to develop a breadth of expertise across a range of sectors. The innovative application of science and technology to agriculture will be even more critical, with the likely withdrawal of direct subsidies to the sector and threat to existing markets for some products associated with ‘Brexit’. As a recognised centre of agricultural knowledge exchange excellence through the activities of Bicton and Duchy College’s Rural Business School (RBS), which is closely engaged with the industries, professions and organisations involved in the global agri-food chain and the UK rural economy, there is the capacity to develop students’ skills to play a key role in regional and national agricultural production systems. Students will understand the underlying science and economics of sustainable crop and animal production systems and their impact on environmental quality. They will be able to produce solutions that take into account the balance between crop and animal production, economic and social needs as well as environmental protection. They will achieve this through the formulation, testing and drawing of conclusions from hypotheses, solving problems through novel research techniques and the communication of ideas and technical management solutions to different audiences. This approach has been ratified by a large sample of employers across agriculture and its ancillary industries, representing regional national and international interests Facilities at our Duchy College Stoke Climsland campus • 260-cow dairy herd with increasing research capabilities • Internationally recognised Rural Business School • Part of the national Centre for Innovation Excellence in Livestock • Base to Agritech Cornwall leading innovation and change • Close links with Rothamsted Research Possible careers available with this qualification • Agricultural consultant • Agricultural journalist • Agricultural Knowledge Exchange Specialist • Agricultural lecturer • Agricultural scientist • Agriculture-related Financial Manager • Agritech specialist • Animal Nutritionist • Animal Scientist • Crop Scientist • Farm Manager • Livestock Breeding Specialist • Technical Adviser Learner and Pastoral Support We pride ourselves on our student focused, friendly and supportive environment. Our dedicated support team are available for regular or ad hoc 1:1 learning or pastoral support needs.