MSc Agriculture and Development

Our MSc Agriculture and Development course examines the role of agriculture in development, and is designed for those pursing careers in research, extension or development, with national and international institutions.

The University of Reading is the highest-ranking UK university for agriculture and forestry and ranked 9th in the world (QS World University Rankings by Subject, 2019 – Agriculture & Forestry. We are the only UK university in the top 50.)

This MSc Agriculture and Development critically examines the role of agriculture (including horticulture) and agricultural research in addressing the major challenges and opportunities related to agricultural intensification and environmental sustainability particularly in tropical and subtropical regions of the developing world.

It explains the role of agriculture in development, the different biophysical, economic and social environments in which agriculture is practised, elaborates recent developments in agricultural research and practice in response to challenges such as poverty, climate change and environmental sustainability, and describes the factors and processes that influence and enhance the relevance, quality and impact of agricultural research and farmer-innovation processes.

This master's programme:

• examines the role of agriculture and agricultural research for development in response to challenges such as the food crisis, poverty, climate change and environmental sustainability.
• provides skills in strategic thinking, quantitative and qualitative analysis, communication and teamwork in biological and social sciences.
• is designed for students interested in pursuing careers in research, extension or development, within international and national institutions.

Class sizes vary by subject and module, but emphasis is always placed on good contact time with lecturers. Learning occurs across a variety of lectures, seminars, tutorials and field trips.

WHAT CAREER CAN YOU HAVE?

Our programmes are excellent preparation for careers in practice, research and policy in the areas of international and rural development, agricultural economics, and marketing within the food chain.

Engagement with a wide variety of visiting speakers and field trips provides many opportunities for networking. In addition, competitive internships, placements and research dissertations are opportunities to showcase your skills, undertake field research or link with organisations in the development sector.