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CHOOSE A SUBJECT
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MSc by Research Agriculture, Ecology and Environment

  • Year of entry
    2023/24
  • Course duration
    Full Time:  12 months Part Time: 24 months
  • Year of entry
    2023/24
  • Course duration
    Full Time:  12 months Part Time: 24 months

Prepare for a research career in the agricultural and agri-environment sectors – or for doctoral studies – with our MSc by Research in Agriculture, Ecology and Environment master’s degree.

You’ll gain a multi-disciplinary appreciation of the underlying environmental, social and economic issues surrounding contemporary agricultural systems, and receive rigorous training in commonly used research methods and statistical analyses.

You’ll also learn from researchers from the Centre for Agri-Environmental Research, a leading centre for agroecology research that’s highly respected by employers in the sector.

Choose MSc by Research in Agriculture, Ecology and Environment at the University of Reading

You will:

  • join the highest-ranking UK university for Agriculture and Forestry (QS World University Rankings by Subject 2022 - Agriculture & Forestry). We’re ranked 11th in the world, and are the only UK university in the top 50.
  • develop your critical appraisal skills of research literature at the interface between agriculture, ecology and environmental science.
  • gain the skills to plan, manage and conduct an in-depth field and/or lab-based independent research project.

Joining this programme means you’ll also be joining the Graduate Institute of International Development, Agriculture and Economics based in the School of Agriculture, Policy and Development, where we are committed to empowering change through our teaching and research. Our academics tackle some of the world’s most pressing issues across their respective fields of expertise, and our mission is to make a difference in the context of the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals.

Facilities

As a MSc by Research in Agriculture, Ecology and Environment student, you will have access to the:

  • Crops Research Unit at Sonning Farm, which has facilities to support field plot experiments on all temperate arable and forage crops within a dedicated 12 ha, irrigable field site, and supporting laboratory and teaching facilities.
  • Crop and Environmental Laboratory, with 2,500 m2 of heated glasshouses, climate controlled and factorial houses, controlled environment growth cabinets, and a protected field plot experimental area.

Your learning environment

As part of your degree, you will participate in a one-week field trip visiting a range of different organisations in the sector, giving you broad exposure to potential employers and job roles.

You may also have the opportunity to conduct research projects through placements at local organisations.

You will choose from a diverse range of modules that aim to give you the knowledge and skills you need to have an impact and be part of global change, and you can choose to undertake an optional placement during the summer term, as well.

Class sizes vary by module, but emphasis is always placed on good contact with lecturers.

Learning occurs across a variety of:

  • interactive learning methods
  • seminars
  • lectures
  • tutorials
  • participation in the classroom: debates, discussions
  • field trips
  • laboratory sessions.

You will also have opportunities for research, networking, and personal development, as well as access to modern study resources and employability support. We also offer study skills support that’s tailored to our School’s master’s students.

The Graduate Institute of International Development, Agriculture and Economics

As an MSc by Research in Agriculture, Ecology and Environment student, you’ll be a member of the School’s Graduate Institute of International Development, Agriculture and Economics (GIIDAE).

GIIDAE attracts a diverse community of master’s students from more than 40 countries, and holds diversity, equality and high-quality teaching and learning as core values in its approach to education.

  • GIIDAE has an active scholarship programme. Visit our dedicated scholarships webpage for more information about scholarships, bursaries, and other sources of funding.
  • Visit the GIIDAE website for more information about the modules you can take during your degree.
  • Download a copy of the GIIDAE brochure, which tells you more about postgraduate study in our School.

Overview

Prepare for a research career in the agricultural and agri-environment sectors – or for doctoral studies – with our MSc by Research in Agriculture, Ecology and Environment master’s degree.

You’ll gain a multi-disciplinary appreciation of the underlying environmental, social and economic issues surrounding contemporary agricultural systems, and receive rigorous training in commonly used research methods and statistical analyses.

You’ll also learn from researchers from the Centre for Agri-Environmental Research, a leading centre for agroecology research that’s highly respected by employers in the sector.

Choose MSc by Research in Agriculture, Ecology and Environment at the University of Reading

You will:

  • join the highest-ranking UK university for Agriculture and Forestry (QS World University Rankings by Subject 2022 - Agriculture & Forestry). We’re ranked 11th in the world, and are the only UK university in the top 50.
  • develop your critical appraisal skills of research literature at the interface between agriculture, ecology and environmental science.
  • gain the skills to plan, manage and conduct an in-depth field and/or lab-based independent research project.

Joining this programme means you’ll also be joining the Graduate Institute of International Development, Agriculture and Economics based in the School of Agriculture, Policy and Development, where we are committed to empowering change through our teaching and research. Our academics tackle some of the world’s most pressing issues across their respective fields of expertise, and our mission is to make a difference in the context of the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals.

Facilities

As a MSc by Research in Agriculture, Ecology and Environment student, you will have access to the:

  • Crops Research Unit at Sonning Farm, which has facilities to support field plot experiments on all temperate arable and forage crops within a dedicated 12 ha, irrigable field site, and supporting laboratory and teaching facilities.
  • Crop and Environmental Laboratory, with 2,500 m2 of heated glasshouses, climate controlled and factorial houses, controlled environment growth cabinets, and a protected field plot experimental area.

Learning

Your learning environment

As part of your degree, you will participate in a one-week field trip visiting a range of different organisations in the sector, giving you broad exposure to potential employers and job roles.

You may also have the opportunity to conduct research projects through placements at local organisations.

You will choose from a diverse range of modules that aim to give you the knowledge and skills you need to have an impact and be part of global change, and you can choose to undertake an optional placement during the summer term, as well.

Class sizes vary by module, but emphasis is always placed on good contact with lecturers.

Learning occurs across a variety of:

  • interactive learning methods
  • seminars
  • lectures
  • tutorials
  • participation in the classroom: debates, discussions
  • field trips
  • laboratory sessions.

You will also have opportunities for research, networking, and personal development, as well as access to modern study resources and employability support. We also offer study skills support that’s tailored to our School’s master’s students.

The Graduate Institute of International Development, Agriculture and Economics

As an MSc by Research in Agriculture, Ecology and Environment student, you’ll be a member of the School’s Graduate Institute of International Development, Agriculture and Economics (GIIDAE).

GIIDAE attracts a diverse community of master’s students from more than 40 countries, and holds diversity, equality and high-quality teaching and learning as core values in its approach to education.

  • GIIDAE has an active scholarship programme. Visit our dedicated scholarships webpage for more information about scholarships, bursaries, and other sources of funding.
  • Visit the GIIDAE website for more information about the modules you can take during your degree.
  • Download a copy of the GIIDAE brochure, which tells you more about postgraduate study in our School.

Entry requirements

IELTS:  6.5 overall with no element less than 5.5 (or equivalent).

Entry requirements

Normally a good undergraduate honours degree (2:1 or above), or equivalent from a university outside the UK, in a subject relevant to agriculture, ecology, geography or environmental sciences. Applicants who have relevant career experience are also welcome to apply.

Students may join immediately after their undergraduate degree, or after some years of employment to enhance career prospects by acquiring further skills. 
For a list of requirements by country, please visit our Country-Specific Information page.

Your personal statement

Your personal statement needs to demonstrate that you understand what the course is about, your motivation for studying, and what you would like to get out of your studies. You may reflect on paid or unpaid experience in the field to help support your personal statement.

Please tell us about your interest in the subject.

Language requirements

Applicants may need to provide evidence of their ability to study in English (if required by UK Visa and Immigration). Our online list of English language tests and qualifications is routinely updated, so please check to see if you already have an acceptable qualification or test, and for the most recent changes to language requirements.

If you have any questions about your evidence of English language proficiency, please email pgadmissions@reading.ac.uk.

Pre-sessional English language programme

If you need to improve your English language score, you can take a pre-sessional English course prior to entry onto your degree.

  • Find out the English language requirements for our courses and our pre-sessional English programme

Structure

  • Year 1

Compulsory modules include:

X

Module details


Title:

Research Methods: Agriculture, Ecology and Environment

Code:

APMA110

Convenor:

DR Jake Bishop

Summary:

Develop the knowledge and skills needed to design and conduct an independent Masters level research project in agriculture, ecology and the environment. Learn about experimental design and statistics, field study techniques and the use of R for data manipulation and analysis. Visit a variety of key research organisations in the sector on a series of field visits, during which you will explore the different types of research methods used to conduct research in agriculture, ecology and the environment.

Assessment Method:

Assignment 30%, Set exercise 20%, Project 50%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

X

Module details


Title:

Research Project: Agriculture, Ecology and Environment

Code:

APMA111

Convenor:

DR Jake Bishop

Summary:

Conduct an in-depth 30-week research project in a specialist area relating to agriculture, ecology and environment. In this entirely practical module you will develop a project on a topic that most interests you. You will work with an academic from the School to plan, design, train in key skills, conduct research and statistically analyse your project, and write up your findings as a scientific paper.

Assessment Method:

Assignment 25%, Oral 10%, Report 65%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

X

Module details


Title:

Issues in Agriculture, Ecology and Environment

Code:

APMA112

Convenor:

DR Lindsay Todman

Summary:

Gain the contextual background for the MSc by Research in Agriculture, Ecology & Environment, integrating the ecology and environmental science with social and economic considerations. The module will comprise lectures over autumn and spring terms combined with a series of seminars and debates in the autumn term. Lecture content is shared with APMA103 and will cover a range of contemporary issues, allowing you to question and consider the scope for sustainable intensification of agriculture. We will draw on material from a range of disciplines (environmental and social sciences, and economics).

Assessment Method:

Assignment 60%, Oral 40%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

Code Module Convenor
APMA110 Research Methods: Agriculture, Ecology and Environment DR Jake Bishop
APMA111 Research Project: Agriculture, Ecology and Environment DR Jake Bishop
APMA112 Issues in Agriculture, Ecology and Environment DR Lindsay Todman

Optional modules include:

X

Module details


Title:

Ecosystem Services

Code:

APMA102

Convenor:

DR Yuan Pan

Summary:

The planet carries humans on its shoulders, its ecosystems constantly providing a myriad of things and subsidies which we use and often abuse. You will learn the fundamentals of the relationship between the humans and the provision of Ecosystem Services, their consumption, management, and conservation. You will discuss your ideas on how to preserve Ecosystem Services in a range of UK environments with researchers and practitioners, who bring cutting edge information and knowledge to the module. 

Assessment Method:

Assignment 50%, Report 50%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

X

Module details


Title:

Principles of Integrated Pest Management

Code:

APMA104

Convenor:

DR Robbie Girling

Summary:

Learn the core principles of integrated pest management (IPM) and how IPM is being used globally to increase the sustainability of agricultural production. Through lectures and laboratory practical sessions you will discover the major classes of pest organisms in crop and forestry systems and will learn integrated methods for their control. You will develop a framework to help you consider the factors that determine the impacts of pests, disease and weeds. By drawing on a range of case studies from around the world you will develop an understanding of how IPM can be incorporated in a whole system approach.

Assessment Method:

Exam 50%, Practical 20%, Class test 30%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

X

Module details


Title:

Horticultural Crop Technology

Code:

APMA118

Convenor:

DR Luke Bell

Summary:

Crop technologists in the horticulture industry are required to be innovative and to design new technologies to improve production efficiency. Learn about specific aspects of crop technology and the development of new horticultural technologies. Build on your previous knowledge by focusing on subjects in greater detail. Examine advanced technical and scientific elements of horticultural production systems in temperate areas, which illustrate the relationship between plant physiology and genetics. Research these technologies and appraise their potential. Through interactive lectures and seminars, gain experience in evaluating scientific research critically. In addition, learn on the ground during a field visits to a local farm and the National Fruit Collection (COVID19 restrictions permitting).

Assessment Method:

Exam 60%, Assignment 20%, Oral 20%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

X

Module details


Title:

Agriculture in the Tropics

Code:

APMA41

Convenor:

DR Andrew Daymond

Summary:

Learn about the agricultural systems of tropical and sub-tropical regions. Examine the major components of agricultural systems including crops, livestock, soils and climate, and their interactions. Discuss Awareness of current issues for agriculture in developing countries such as the 'Green Revolution' and the use of pesticides.

Assessment Method:

Assignment 80%, Oral 20%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

X

Module details


Title:

Water, Agriculture and Irrigation

Code:

APMA89

Convenor:

DR Gillian Rose

Summary:

Globally agriculture uses approximately 70% of the available freshwater therefore responsible water management is key to global sustainability. In this module you will gain an understanding of the soil and plant processes which contribute to the management of water for crop production and how these are used to schedule irrigation. After learning about the different irrigation methods you will use your knowledge to design an irrigation system and schedule using the Aquacrop simulation model.

Assessment Method:

Set exercise 45%, Class test 55%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

X

Module details


Title:

Climate change and food systems

Code:

APMA90

Convenor:

DR Jake Bishop

Summary:

Anybody working in the food system needs to consider climate change. You will learn about the global climate system and how organisms respond to climate factors. You will apply this knowledge to understand how agriculture and the wider food system need to adapt to climate change. You will learn about a range of scientific approaches used in this area of research, how to decipher the methodology sections of scientific papers, and how to critique what you read in scientific journals and in the media. You will also develop transferable skills in literature review and information synthesis.

Assessment Method:

Assignment 80%, Class test 20%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

X

Module details


Title:

Qualitative Research Methods

Code:

APME40

Convenor:

DR Giacomo Zanello

Summary:

Gain fundamental knowledge of qualitative research methods and evaluate the contribution of such methods to social science research, particularly in relation to economics and as applied in the fields of agriculture and food. Learn through integrated lectures, practical sessions, and applied group work.

Assessment Method:

Oral 60%, Class test 40%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

X

Module details


Title:

Laboratory Analysis of Soils and Pollutants

Code:

GVMLASP

Convenor:

DR Udeme Dickson

Summary:

GVMLASP develops your laboratory and reporting skills. Over the course of 10 practical classes you will develop knowledge of the main analyses which are applied to soils to determine properties pertinent to the fate and behaviour of pollutants. You will also undertake a number of tests that are used to assess the concentration and bioavailability of a suite of contaminants in polluted soils. This module provides practical experience of techniques introduced and applied in GVMPBE.

Assessment Method:

Practical 30%, Report 70%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

X

Module details


Title:

Personal and Professional Development Programme for International Students

Code:

IDM089

Convenor:

DR Georgia Koromila

Summary:

GIIDAE is home to a large international learning community attracting students from around 40 countries each year – and as such is an outstanding example of a globalised educational experience. This module will provide specific support to international students for whom the masters course will be their first experience of living and studying in the UK. The course is designed primarily to further academic, personal and professional development in a friendly, relaxed and informal setting but also aims to ensure that international students learn about UK culture, develop a sense of ‘place’ by learning about Reading and its environs and provide support with the English language.

The module does not have any formal assessment but is recorded on student transcripts dependent on attendance / participation.

Assessment Method:

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

Code Module Convenor
APMA102 Ecosystem Services DR Yuan Pan
APMA104 Principles of Integrated Pest Management DR Robbie Girling
APMA118 Horticultural Crop Technology DR Luke Bell
APMA41 Agriculture in the Tropics DR Andrew Daymond
APMA89 Water, Agriculture and Irrigation DR Gillian Rose
APMA90 Climate change and food systems DR Jake Bishop
APME40 Qualitative Research Methods DR Giacomo Zanello
GVMLASP Laboratory Analysis of Soils and Pollutants DR Udeme Dickson
IDM089 Personal and Professional Development Programme for International Students DR Georgia Koromila

These are the modules that we currently offer. They may change for your year of study as we regularly review our module offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

Fees

New UK/Republic of Ireland students: £12,300

New international students: £23,150

Tuition fee information

The fees listed are for full-time study, unless otherwise stated. Fee information will be confirmed in offer letters sent out to successful applicants. You can find further information, including information for part-time study, through our dedicated fees and funding page.

EU student fees

With effect from 1 August 2021, new EU students will pay international tuition fees. For exceptions, please read the UK government's guidance for EU students.

Additional costs

Some courses will require additional payments for field trips and extra resources. You will also need to budget for your accommodation and living costs. See our information on living costs for more details.

Financial support for your studies

You may be eligible for a scholarship or bursary to help pay for your study. Students from the UK may also be eligible for a student loan to help cover these costs. See our fees and funding information for more information on what's available.

The Graduate Institute of International Development, Agriculture and Economics also offers a number of scholarships.

International students applying to study this degree may be eligible to apply for a Chevening Scholarship.

Careers

Your MSc by Research in Agriculture, Ecology and Environment degree is excellent preparation for research careers in the agricultural and agri-environment sectors, as well as doctoral studies.

A wide variety of visiting speakers and field trips means you’ll have many opportunities for networking, while competitive internships, placements, and research dissertations provide opportunities to showcase your skills, undertake field research, or link with organisations in the development sector.

Our graduates

  • Read about Sarah Shepperd, an MSc by Research in Agriculture, Ecology and Environment graduate who is now working on her PhD in ecology and agri-environment at the University of Reading.

Take the next step


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Related Subjects


  • International Development and Applied Economics
  • Agriculture

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