Agriculture
This is a 60-credit, part-time, level 7 add-on degree programme which will be delivered over 2 years. It was developed by DkIT in partnership with Teagasc Ballyhaise Agricultural College and is the first programme of its kind in Ireland.
| Award Name | Degree - Ordinary Bachelor (Level 7 NFQ) |
|---|---|
| NFQ Classification | Major |
| Awarding Body | Dundalk Institute of Technology |
| NFQ Level | Level 7 NFQ |
| Award Name | NFQ Classification | Awarding Body | NFQ Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Degree - Ordinary Bachelor (Level 7 NFQ) | Major | Dundalk Institute of Technology | Level 7 NFQ |
Duration
2 Years
Course Delivery
The course will be delivered on two evenings per week, one of which will be online and one on campus in either DkIT or Ballyhaise College. Laboratory and farm practical classes will be held on two-three Saturdays during each semester.
Entry Requirements
The minimum entry requirements for entry to the programme are as follows:
Higher Certificate in Science in Agriculture or equivalent (NFQ level 6 Higher Education);
OR
Advanced Certificate in Agriculture (NFQ level 6 QQI award) and a minimum of 2 years relevant post qualification experience;
OR
Certificate in Agriculture (NFQ Level 5 QQI award) with NFQ level 6 Specific Purpose Certificate in Farm Administration and a minimum of 3 years relevant post qualification experience;
OR
Other NFQ level 6 Agriculture awards that meet the requirements for the Green Cert, which may be considered under the DkIT Recognised Prior Learning (RPL) Policy.
Candidates may be invited for interview and this will form part of the selection process where demand exceeds available places.
For candidates who do not meet the above entry criteria but have considerable relevant experience, the DkIT Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) policy and procedures may be applied.
Applicants should include a letter from an employer confirming that they have the relevant amount of full time work experience.
Careers / Further progression
Career Opportunities
A part-time Honours Degree, which students will be able to progress to on completion of this programme, is currently under development.
? Level 8 programme opportunities in agriculture related disciplines.
? Commercial farmer or Farm Manager.
? Technical Sales Role/Sales Advisor. ? Manufacturing
– Agri-Food Sector. ? Rural entrepreneurs (e.g. artisan food products, etc.).
? Quality Management / Quality Assurance roles in the Agri-Food industry.
Further information
Registration for a part-time course at DkIT could not be easier.
Just click on dkit.ie/parttime or dkit.ie/postgraduate to search for your course and follow the ‘How To Apply’ instructions on the course page.
Please note that early registration is advisable as the number of places on many courses are limited. Applications will be dealt with in order of receipt of completed application and appropriate fee. Applicants must notify the Lifelong Learning Centre in writing in the event of your withdrawal from any course for any reason.
If you have any questions about registering for a course, contact our Lifelong Learning Team on parttime@dkit.ie or call us on +353 (0)42 9370290
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Tax Relief / Other Funders
Tax relief at the standard rate of tax (20%) is available for certain tuition fees on courses which lead to third-level awards.
For further information visit revenue.ie to receive a copy of form IT31. This applies only to students who are funding their studies from their own income. Always retain your receipt of payment from DkIT for tax purposes.
In certain circumstances students may receive financial aid in paying their fees from County Enterprise Boards, Leader Partnerships, Department of Social Protection and other organisations.
How to Apply
You can enrol online for this course by clicking the application weblink below
Please ensure to upload any required documentation (i.e. scanned copies of existing educational qualifications and your CV) when you apply.
It is evident that there is a need to provide ongoing education for qualified, experienced farmers and those working in agri-business, to allow them to keep pace with ongoing technological and policy changes in the sector. This programme is aimed at holders of ‘Green Certs’ who have significant experience but did not pursue higher or further education beyond NFQ level 6.
Graduates of this programme will demonstrate:
A strong foundation in biological, physical and chemical sciences and mathematics and an understanding of the relevance of science to agri-food industry
A strong skills base in business, finance and entrepreneurship to enable on farm diversification, while also applying a sustainable approach to Agri-business in terms of increased competitiveness and enhanced market orientation.
An informed approach to sustainable forage and crop production, based on an in-depth understanding of present and evolving soil nutrient management, technological advances, and plant protection methodologies.
Knowledge of animal production, husbandry, breeding, disease control, all of which are underpinned by a strong sustainable environment focus with a view to optimising animal health and associated environment.
Understanding of the key quality management and food safety standards and tools with a view to producing efficient, sustainable, safe, traceable and value-added food products.
The ability to apply evolving science, technology and business acumen through an innovative and adaptable approach to meet current and future challenges in the Agriculture sector.
This programme has a strong central theme of ‘Sustainability’ and this will be reflected in the profile of the graduates.
Biology and Chemistry in Agriculture
Mathematics and Physics
Soil Science and Sustainable Farming
Crop and Forage Science
Agricultural Biochemistry and Nutrition
Poultry and Pig Production Systems (elective)
The Science of Food (elective)
Advanced Livestock Management
Finance and Communications
Agri-Food Quality Management
Agricultural Entrepreneurship and Diversification
Agriculture and Climate Change (elective)
Food Processing (elective)
Who Should Apply?
Holders of ‘Green Certs’ who have experience in the industry and wish to:
Progress academically and obtain a level 7 award.
Develop new skills in identified areas such as sustainable animal and crop production, environmental management, financial management, marketing and entrepreneurship.
Update and improve skills and practices and obtain better access to funded existing and future schemes.
Develop skills to support diversification or the development of a home-based industry.
Pursue new career paths or enable further career progression within the Agri-Food sector
Dr Siobhan Jordan (Acting Head of Department of Agriculture, Food and Animal Health)
Email: Siobhan.Jordan@dkit.ie
Dr. Geraldine O'Connor (Head of Part-time Programmes, School of Health and Science)
Email: geraldine.oconnor@dkit.ie