The University of Reading is the highest-ranking UK university for this subject area and ranked 6th globally in the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2018 (Agriculture & Forestry). We are very proud to be the only UK university in the top 50 and have a longstanding reputation for excellence.

Agriculture combines the study of natural and life sciences with valuable academic and practical aspects of management. You will learn how to use biology and technology to maximise crop and animal production to meet economic targets and achieve environmental objectives. In addition to practical knowledge, you will gain a thorough understanding of business. You will also study globally recognised farming practices on the University's own farms.

As part of the degree you can study globally recognised farming practices on the University's own farms. These include livestock production (Centre for Dairy Research), agronomy (Crops Research Unit) and environmental enhancement (Centre for Agri-Environmental Research).

You can focus on animal science and production, crop science and production, agri-environment or agri-business, or tailor your course to your own interests by combining these areas.

You'll have the opportunity to visit a wide range of local farming businesses, rural estates and businesses in the related sectors including Waitrose’s Leckford Estate, Sygenta and NIAB TAG. Visiting speakers include those at the forefront of the industry from agronomists to those involved in the livestock and dairy sectors, giving you the chance to network and build relationships while you learn.

In one of our most popular modules you will grow a winter cereal, test it in the lab for quality and then sell it to merchants. You will also complete a week-long study tour to a different part of the country to look at different farming enterprises as part of this degree.

In the final year, your dissertation allows you to choose a subject that inspires and interests you. This could involve a farm, including your home farm, research at the University or an enterprise that you’ve had contact with during the course.

Outside of the curriculum, the student-run Agri-club runs the UK’s largest student conference. It gives you the opportunity to debate key issues like food security and self-sufficiency and get your voice heard.

Placement

If you would like to complete a one-year work placement in between years two and three, you should consider studying BSc Agriculture with Industrial Training. In the past, students have undertaken their year in industry in the UK with DairyCo and Case New Holland, as well as internationally, in Europe and New Zealand. You will be supported by our advisory services and a dedicated member of staff who will assist with finding and supporting your year out.

Some students can also participate in six-week summer placements linked to research undertaken at the University, which are generally completed before the final year.