Agriculture and Related Sciences - Subject Guide

Single Honours 

• Agriculture 

• Agricultural Science 

• Sustainable Agriculture 

• Environmental Science  

Joint Honours 

• Agriculture and Business Management 

• Agricultural Science and Environmental Studies 

• Crop Science and Horticulture 

• Animal Science and Veterinary Studies 

SOURCE: COMMON DEGREE TITLES FROM WHATUNI

 Alternative options 

• Foundation years: Typically lasting for a year, this course provides a solid foundation for individuals interested in pursuing a career in agriculture but who may not have the prior knowledge or experience needed. 

• Sandwich degrees: Extending your undergraduate degree in agriculture and related sciences by an additional year offers valuable opportunities to gain practical experience through work placements, research projects, or hands-on experience in the agricultural industry. 

• Integrated Master’s: An integrated Master's degree is a great way to deepen their knowledge and skills by extending your undergraduate studies by one year and emerging with a postgraduate qualification. 

• Degree apprenticeships: Embark on a journey of learning and professional development through degree apprenticeships in agriculture and related sciences. These programs typically last between three and six years, combining academic study with practical training and work-based learning. Employers cover tuition fees and provide students with mentorship and guidance. 

FIND OUT MORE: Different types of undergraduate degree

SOURCE: WHATUNI

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• What you need to know to apply to university through UCAS

• UCAS points calculator

There usually isn’t too strict of a requirement for your A-level (or equivalent) subjects, and an offer will most likely be made to you on the basis of UCAS Tariff points. However, for many of the degree options in the agricultural field, a strong foundation in science, particularly in biology or chemistry, will be an advantage.

FIND OUT MORE: How to choose your A-level subjects

Looking at everything from plant breeding and livestock nutrition to land management and ethical business structures, students can explore a wide range of disciplines and develop expertise in their chosen area. Some specialisations include: 

• Crop genetics: Scientists alter the genetic makeup of crops to enhance features such as yield, resistance to pests and diseases, and nutritional content developing improved crop varieties that meet the demands of modern agriculture.  

• Soil science and agronomy: This specialisation covers the properties, composition, and fertility of soils to enhance crop production and land management practices. Researchers investigate soil health, nutrient cycling, and erosion control, providing farmers with knowledge to sustainably improve soil quality and productivity. 

• Animal nutrition and production: Involves studying the dietary needs of livestock to develop balanced diets, feed formulations, and husbandry techniques to ensure the optimum well-being and efficiency of animals in meat, dairy, and poultry production systems. 

• Agricultural economics: Many aspects of farming, like production, distribution and consumption, can be looked at from an economics point of view. Economists study market trends, government policies, and financial strategies to support sustainable agricultural practices and access to food. 

• Sustainable agriculture: This field aims to meet current food needs while preserving natural resources and ecosystems for future generations. Agriculturalists employ techniques like conservation tillage, crop rotation, and integrated pest management to minimise the environmental impact of farming, enhance biodiversity, and promote crop resilience. 

FIND OUT MORE: View all courses

• Crop production and management 

• Animal husbandry 

• Rural development and community engagement 

• Soil management 

• Pest and disease management 

• Agricultural economics 

• Sustainable practices 

• Supply Chain management 

• Environmental impact assessment 

• Food safety and quality assurance 

You can expect to learn about agricultural practices, food production, and environmental sustainability on one of these courses. More broadly, you’ll also cover topics like the economics and policy of agriculture, and their social implications.  

Additionally, you’ll learn about emerging technologies and innovative practices within agriculture and the businesses which support them.  

You’ll also learn a range of transferable skills such as: 

• Communication 

• Teamwork 

• Critical thinking 

• Presentation 

• Communication 

Agriculture and related sciences programs may be accredited by professional organisations or regulatory bodies to ensure they meet the high standards required to work in the UK or around the world.  

Your degree might include professional accreditation from bodies such as the Royal Society of Biology, the Institute of Chartered Foresters, or the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors. 

There are many alternative degree subjects which can lead to a career within agriculture. You can tailor your choice to be more business oriented, more community-focused, or to have a greater emphasis on plants and animals. 

Here are several related degrees worth exploring: 

• Horticulture and plant science 

• Veterinary medicine 

• Food science and technology 

• Rural development studies 

• Sustainable resource management 

Studying a degree in agriculture gives you a firm grounding (sorry, couldn’t resist the pun) in the way rural land is managed, from the intricacies of plant genetics up to the social policies which shape agricultural businesses. Gaining a degree opens doors to a multitude of careers in agriculture, from the most independent of local practices to the largest global challenges.  Potential career pathways include: 

• Agricultural researcher 

• Farm manager 

• Environmental policy analyst 

• Food safety inspector 

• Agribusiness manager 

• Soil conservationist 

• Rural development specialist 

• Agricultural educator 

These are just a few of the most common job roles. You'll find plenty of other options available to you, and you can also continue your studies by completing a postgraduate degree in agriculture or a related subject. 

FIND OUT MORE: Career guides