The Course

Efficient crop production remains the key to sustained and effective use of the rural resource. However, over recent years crop management systems have undergone considerable change. The emphasis has shifted away from purely commercial objectives, and modern crop managers must increasingly justify inputs and assess the impact of their activities on the environment.

These new demands are complex and require skilled and knowledgeable individuals to handle them successfully. Modern techniques and products are combined in the concept of Integrated Crop Management to develop environmentally sustainable systems of crop production. After the core period of agricultural study, you will study a wide range of Crop Management modules, such as Plant Nutrition, Crop Protection and Technology, Advanced Agronomy and Sustainable Farming. Optional modules include Farm Machinery Technology, Fresh Produce Production and Rural Business Opportunities.

Harper Adams has extensive academic and industrial experience and are actively involved in applied crop research and consultancy, including the delivery of short courses to industry. This means courses are vocationally relevant and up-to-date.

The Placement

You will enjoy a year of paid employment in a sector of the agriculture and ancilliary industries, depending on your individual interests and skills. Placements may involve working for large integrated businesses producing combinable crops and fresh produce, the packers and distributors of these crops, or as trial officers and agronomists for independent or crop protection companies.

The Future

The applied nature of the course and practical experience gained during the placement period give you the skills the industry needs. As a graduate you could choose from a variety of careers, working for a multi-national company or small rural business as an agronomist, technical representative or trainee manager, amongst others.