This degree gives you a broad knowledge of the science and business of both animal and crop production and their interactions in a constantly changing environment. You will develop:

• Knowledge of the growth, development and improvement of farm animals and crops
• Knowledge of the agribusiness industry
• The capacity to formulate economical and sustainable animal and crop production systems
• The capacity for life long learning so you remain informed of evolving technical, economic and regulatory frameworks
• Communication and IT skills

First year concentrates on developing the basic sciences, before the focus moves to more applied sciences. You can also choose elective modules, while the facilities at the UCD Lyons Farm are widely used as teaching aids in the final two years of the course. Modules include:

Students spend an average of 40 hours a week attending lectures, tutorials and laboratory-based practicals, and undertake independent study. In third and fourth year, students make regular visits to UCD’s Lyons Farm.

A combination of continuous assessment and end-of-trimester written examinations is used. Certain modules also require project work.

Between January and August in third year, you undertake a period of PWE in Ireland or abroad. You can also study abroad in trimester one of third year, at universities including:

• Lincoln University, New Zealand
• Iowa State University, USA
• Texas A&M University, USA
• Purdue University, USA
• Michigan State University, USA
• Cornell University, USA

This is also a very suitable degree if you intend to pursue full-time farming or combine part-time farming with a professional career. Research opportunities to Master’s and PhD level are available.