利默里克理工学院

What is the programme about?

Agri-food and Fisheries is Ireland’s largest indigenous industry. It collectively employs some 168,000 people with an annual output of over €26 billion. The agriculture and agribusiness sector is growing strongly, and there are further plans for expansion under the Food Wise 2025 strategy. A key challenge for agriculture will be to increase production in a sustainable manner, which does not negatively affect the natural environment. This programme will provide a strong foundation in science and environmental management, combined with specialist agriculture modules. It will allow successful graduates to work in the environment and agriculture sector, with a clear understanding of relationships between agricultural, food production and key environmental issues.

The programme is delivered in conjunction with the existing B.Sc. in Environmental and Geographical Sciences. Approximately two thirds of the programme focuses on science and environmental management with one third focused on agricultural issues. The degree is run in co-operation with Gurteen College, Ballingarry, Co. Tipperary where a ten-credit module takes place in the first year of the programme titled “Farm Enterprises - Theory & Practice”. The second and third year see progressively increased content relating to agriculture, with considerable lab work, fieldwork, field trips and computer skills sessions provided throughout the degree. A sustainable development stream allows wider reflection on balancing the needs of the environment, the economy and society while a professional development module prepares students for a work placement during the summer of third year.

Who is the programme suited to?

This programme will suit people with an interest in agriculture and the environment. School subjects such as geography, agricultural science, biology and chemistry are particularly relevant. It is also suitable for mature students with relevant work experience. The programme incorporates options for students to be able to exit with a Level 6 Higher Certificate award after two years. Graduates will be eligible for positions within the science and environmental management sector and be particularly qualified where these positions arise within the agri-sector.

Further Studies

Students may wish to progress to the 4th year B.Sc. (Hons) Environmental Management in Agriculture degree. The option is also available to transfer into the 4th year B.Sc. (Hons) in Environmental & Geographical Sciences. Employment opportunities include work with companies carrying out on-farm environmental and sustainability auditing; as environmental technicians or environmental officers with businesses, public sector bodies and non-governmental organisations (NGOs).