Master of Science - Agriculture and Development

University of Reading

Examine the role of agriculture in international contexts with University of Reading's MSc Agriculture and Development master’s degree, designed for those pursuing careers in rural development, agricultural extension, or research.

Students will critically examine how agriculture – including horticulture – and agricultural research are addressing major challenges and opportunities in agricultural intensification and environmental sustainability, particularly in tropical and subtropical regions of the developing world.

With an emphasis on farming systems, students will explore:

• the role and contributions of agriculture and horticulture to human development, food and nutritional security, livelihoods and ecosystem services.
• the biophysical, economic and social environments in which agriculture is practised.
• advances in agricultural technology, research and practise in response to challenges such as poverty, climate change and environmental sustainability.
• how to enhance the relevance, quality and impact of agricultural research and farmer-led innovation processes.