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Agricultural Science

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Why Study Agricultural Science ?

Today's agricultural industry draws increasingly on scientific and technical expertise as it responds to the changing climate, the growing global demand for food and rising input costs, whilst striving for higher standards of food quality, animal welfare and environmental protection.

 

Farmers need high yielding crops that are more efficient in terms of water and nutrient use, and more resistant to pests, diseases and environmental stress.  They need livestock health and biosecurity measures to protect against future disease epidemics, and improved waste management systems to control pollution and protect the environment. The industry needs energy-efficient production systems that minimise emissions of greenhouse gases, optimise use of renewable resources and protect natural biodiversity. Well-trained scientists are needed to help meet these challenges.

 

The agricultural science course develops students' biological understanding, scientific skills and knowledge of sustainable agriculture so that they can contribute to the future success of the agricultural industry.

 

A course leaflet can be downloaded from the right of this page.

About The Course

Agricultural Science is a broad-based course that aims to equip students with knowledge of biological and associated sciences, skills in practical and laboratory techniques, and an understanding of how these can be applied to support the agricultural sector.

 

Laboratory classes develop practical skills to complement the theoretical aspects of the course, which are delivered using a mixture of lectures, seminars, computing sessions and group discussions. Modules are assessed using a combination of coursework and written examinations.

 

The Agricultural Science programme has good links with the agricultural industry and strong emphasis is placed on industrial and farm visits to reinforce the relevance of the topics studied.

 

This course is offered as a top-up degree only, allowing entry into Year 3 of the degree programme for those with an appropriate HND or foundation degree.

 

Past graduates of the Agricultural Science degree have an excellent track record of employment in a wide range of relevant career pathways. 

Awards Available

Click on a course title for further details

BSc/BSc (Hons) Agricultural Science

Study In Ayr: SAC SO1 D700 Y BSc/AgrSc

Length Of Course

This top-up degree (admitting those with an appropriate HND or foundation degree) takes 1 year for the BSc and two years for the BSc (honours) Agricultural Science.

Validating University

This degree is awarded by the University of Glasgow.

Minimum Entry Requirements

A related HND or foundation degree, to allow entry into Year 3 of the degree programme.

Progression Routes

Top-up degree only.

Course Content

Further information is available in SAC's undergraduate prospectus, and in our course leaflet which can be downloaded from this page. Please contact us for further information.

 

Here is a breakdown of what to expect from your studies over the length of this course.

 

Year 3:

The third year provides advanced practical training in analytical and research techniques and allows you extend and deepen your knowledge and understanding with elective options that include animal welfare and behaviour, pharmacology, GIS and remote sensing, plant protection, land and habitat restoration and the UK agri-food industries.

 

Year 4:

In addition to the Honours Project, where students research a topic of their choice, a wide range of advanced electives are available. These include applied livestock technology, animal feed technology, animal breeding and genetics, animal disease and diagnostics, advanced agronomy, plant responses to stress, biotechnology for crops and crop products, land-based environmental issues, soil environment interactions and food and agri-business economic policy.

 

Career Opportunities

Career destinations of former graduates include:

  • Farm conservation adviser (FWAG)
  • Trainee agricultural consultant (SAC)
  • Agricultural officer (SGRPID)
  • Animal health sales representative
  • Ruminant nutritionist
  • Crop representative
  • Grain quality technician
  • Assistant farm business analyst
  • Junior agricultural business consultant
  • Regional manager (NFUS)

Course Contacts

Ayr Course Contact

Mrs Chris Leggate
Programme Leader
SAC (Scottish Agricultural College) Work SAC, Riverside Campus, University Avenue,
Ayr
KA8 0SX
TelWork 01292 886172
Fax 01292 886199

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Ayr Campus General Contact

Mrs Jill Thomson
Student Recruitment Officer
SAC (Scottish Agricultural College) Work SAC Ayr, Riverside Campus, University Avenue,
Ayr
KA8 0SX
TelWork 01292 886196

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Student Experiences

Russell Allison graduated with BSc (Hons) Agricultural Science.

“SAC is at the centre of learning for the agricultural industries, so it was there I wanted to head for the best start to my higher education. The course provided me with practical, scientific and technical knowledge of agriculture, including current practices and looking to the future. During my studies, I took a special interest in the livestock management and ruminant nutrition sections, which helped immensely in my chosen career.

Since graduating, I worked for SAC at the Crichton Royal, Dumfries. Here I was in the team conducting trial work and I loved every minute while gaining invaluable experience. I then moved to Galloway & MacLeod, Lanarkshire where I am currently employed as our Ruminant Nutritionist. My position lets me get involved in new research and techniques in feeding and communicating this back onto farm. 

Without doubt, I would not be in such a role if it had not been for my grounding at SAC. The friends I made at SAC Ayr, both students and lecturers, and the good times we had are what sets SAC apart from the rest. I guarantee you won't regret your time there!”