SRUC offer new online agriculture practice course

A new post-graduate Diploma (PgDIP) and Masters Degree (MSc) in Agricultural Professional Practice from Scotland's Rural College (SRUC) can be studied part-time and online.

The course is designed to help those in full-time work or coping with family commitments. Validated by the University of Glasgow, the course will start in September 2015.

Caroline Daniel, Agricultural Programme LEADER with SRUC, said: "There is a high demand in the industry for well trained, qualified staff who not only have specialist knowledge but also the ability to get their message across to clients.

"We have aimed it at professionals such as consultants, agronomists, animal nutritionists and farm business managers who want to extend their professional knowledge and skill. It is for graduates or others with significant work experience."

With five compulsory and three optional modules to study a typical student is expected to complete four modules a year, studying for an average of 12 -15 hours a week.  Two residential study weekends, held each year on SRUC’s Aberdeen campus, are also strongly recommended.

The compulsory modules to be covered include Professional Leadership and Management, Business Planning & Decision Making and Project Management. Among the optional choices are Nutrient Management, Animal Health and Veterinary Medicine or Grassland and Fodder Crop Protection.

SRUC's unique professional qualification has been welcomed by industry representatives.

Richard Cooksley, Director of the Institute of Agricultural Management, said: "The IAgrM are very pleased to support this initiative and promote the SRUC course. To achieve the P.Agric - our Professional Grade of membership - members must be able to demonstrate they have the necessary academic and practical skills to meet the required standard. This course fits perfectly and we would accept it as evidence of CPD."

Find out more about the course and how to apply.