This intensive course in agriculture is unique to the Royal Agricultural College and provides an opportunity for graduates or professionals in other disciplines to re-direct their careers towards agricultural and associated rural industries.

Who is the Course for?

The course attracts students from a wide age group and is particularly appropriate for more mature students who are re-directing their careers towards agriculture. In addition to developing the pure agriculturist, the Graduate Diploma in Agriculture is also designed to provide members of the professions who are aiming to serve the rural community with a detailed knowledge of the industry.

The course may be studied full-time over one academic year (30 weeks), or part-time over two, three or four years. You are able to choose the pattern, in consultation with the Course Manager, which best suits you.

How is the Course organised?

You are able to design your course of study by selecting from our extensive undergraduate and postgraduate courses. It includes a limited number of compulsory modules, designed to provide a clear, coherent underpinning knowledge of the UK agricultural industry. You are then able to tailor the remainder of your course to meet future career aspirations. Visits and a summer study tour expose you to a wide variety of agricultural enterprises.

What is the learning style?

In addition to lectures and farm walks, you will participate in case studies, assignments, and management projects dependent on module selections, in order to develop and apply your knowledge across curricular themes. This approach fosters teamwork and complements individual study and student learning.

You are strongly encouraged to complete pre-course reading in order to secure a minimum basic knowledge of agriculture and to highlight possible areas of weakness.

Entry Requirements

• The normal minimum entry requirement will be an Honours degree at upper second level, or an HND award with a Distinction profile.
• Mature candidates with significant relevant work experience and lower academic qualifications may also be considered for entry, following personal interview with the Course Manager.
• If your first language is not English, we will the accept International English Language Test (IELTS) with a minimum score of 6.5 average with no element below 5.5.
• If you have other qualifications, including overseas awards and alternative English language qualifications, you are advised to contact Admissions to discuss the suitability of your award for entry onto the course.

Career Prospects

Graduates usually enter practical farming after completing the course. Mature students who have a degree or career experience in other fields are attractive candidates for commercial or administrative posts in the industries ancillary to agriculture. Alternatively, you may qualify for progression to a Masters course.