BSc in Agriculture (Part Time Level 7 Add-On)
NOW CLOSED FOR APPLICATIONS
The Closing date for applications is Monday 26th August OR until all places are taken whichever comes first.
Course Overview
This is a 60-credit, part-time (year 3 entry only), 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. 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.
What makes this course different
Study Part-time
Aimed at holders of ‘Green Certs’ who have significant experience but did not pursue higher or further education beyond NFQ level 6, this is currently the only programme in Ireland that will allow you to get a level 7 degree in Agriculture on a part-time basis
Delivered Jointly with Teagasc
This is a collaborative programme delivered jointly with Teagasc at Ballyhaise Agricultural College. See more information in the course description below.
Career Opportunities
It is anticipated that graduates may progress to career opportunities in the following areas:
• 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.
Course Delivery and Modules
The course will be delivered on 2 evenings per week (Mondays and Wednesdays 17.30 to 21.00hrs (approx.). Classes on Monday will be on campus in DkIT (which may be streamed live), while Wednesday classes will be online. Laboratory and farm practical classes will be held on 2-3 Saturdays during each semester in either DkIT or Teagasc, Ballyhaise.
Final exams may be scheduled in the DkIT campus during the day time.
Due to the blended learning delivery within this course students should have access to a PC / Mac, a headset with a mic, and a broadband internet connection from home, so as to be able to fully participate in the course. Basic IT skills essential.
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Year 1
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Year 2
Education Progression
Graduates of this programme may be interested in progressing to an add-on Honours Degree (Level 8) programme.
Fees and Funding
Total Course fee is €2,800 or €1,400 per year.
Tuition fees for YEAR 1 are as follows:
- Instalment 1: €200 (non-refundable) is payable to confirm your acceptance of a course place.
- Instalment 2: €500 is payable by the 31st October.
- Instalment 3: €700 is payable by the 28th February.
Tuition fees for YEAR 2 are as follows:
- Instalment 1: €700 (non-refundable) is payable to confirm your acceptance of a course place.
- Instalment 2: €700 is payable by the 31st October.
Fees
€1,400 per year
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. Learn more about RPL at DkIT
Applicants should include a letter from an employer confirming that they have the relevant amount of full time work experience.
How To Apply
Please apply for this course using our online application system below. Please submit the following documents with your application:
- An up-to-date CV
- Applicants should include a letter from an employer confirming that they have the relevant amount of full time work experience
- Copy of NFQ Level 6 in Agriculture (see entry requirements above)
Ask us a Question
If you have a question about the BSc in Agriculture (Part Time Level 7 Add-On) please ask it below and we will get back to you.
Dr Siobhan Jordan
Acting Head of Department of Agriculture, Food and Animal Health
Email: Siobhan.Jordan@dkit.ieDr. Geraldine O'Connor
Head of Part-time Programmes, School of Health and Science
Email: geraldine.oconnor@dkit.ieDisclaimer: All module titles are subject to change and for indicative purposes only. All courses are delivered subject to demand and timetables are subject to change. Elective Module options will only run subject to student numbers. The relevant Department will determine the viability of each elective module option proceeding depending on the number of students who choose that option. Students will be offered alternative elective modules on their programme should their preferred elective option not be proceeding. Award Options for Common Entry Programmes: The relevant Department will determine the viability of each award option proceeding depending on the number of students who choose either option. If the numbers for one of the Award options exceed available places, students for this option will be selected based on Academic Merit (highest grades).
