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The University of Reading offers two options for postgraduate study in Crop Science: a taught MSc in Agriculture and Development, and an MSc by Research in Agriculture, Ecology and the Environment.

Image credit: C. Schubert (©CCAFS)

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Our courses

The Department of Crop Science is part of the School of Agriculture, Policy and Development, which is made up of five academic departments. Our departments work collaboratively to deliver teaching and research across the School.

MSc Agriculture and Development

Explore how agriculture may address the global challenges and opportunities of agricultural intensification and environmental sustainability, particularly in the tropics and subtropics.

This flexible programme also offers a horticulture pathway.

MSc by Research Agriculture, Ecology and Environment

This programme will prepare you for a research career in agriculture and agri-environment sectors, or for subsequent doctoral studies.

Taught by researchers from the Centre for Agri-Environmental Research, a leading centre for agroecology research and highly respected by employers in the sector, you will gain a multi-disciplinary appreciation of the underlying environmental, social and economic issues surrounding contemporary agriculture systems.

You will also receive rigorous training in commonly used research methods and statistical analyses.

MSc by Research Agricultural and Food Economics

This programme will prepare you for doctoral studies in agricultural and food economics and marketing. It provides rigorous training in research methods to prepare you for a career in academia or a research career in non-academic organisations.

You'll have the opportunity to learn, and then apply, the skills of applied economics and marketing to a diverse range of contemporary food, farm and rural issues in both developed and developing country contexts.

MSc by Research Animal Science

Further your knowledge of animal nutrition, health, behaviour and sustainable livestock production with our flexible MSc by Research Animal Science course. You'll also develop your skills as an independent researcher.

Master's funding

Scholarships are available for master's students enrolling in 2022, some offered directly by the University and others allocated by external funding bodies. In order to apply, a candidate must have received an offer of admission to one of our participating master's courses.

Find out more about our Master's Scholarships

Scholarships offered by the School of Agriculture, Policy and Development

The Graduate Institute of International Development, Agriculture and Economics (GIIDAE) – part of the School of Agriculture, Policy and Development – offers a diverse range of scholarships to candidates who have received an offer to study a GIIDAE programme.

Learn more about GIIDAE scholarships

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Why study with us?

Gain specialist skills for your future career, and benefit from our extensive research and teaching facilities.
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How you'll study

Develop your knowledge and skills through a blend of theoretical study and practical experience. You'll learn in an interdisciplinary environment that prepares you for the challenges faced by global communities and businesses.

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Life in the Department

Join a diverse, supportive community in the Graduate Institute of International Development, Agriculture and Economics.