BAgrSc (Hons) Agricultural Systems Technology

4 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

University College Dublin

Program Overview

The Agricultural Systems Technology (ETS2) program at University College Dublin focuses on applying engineering, data, and digital tools to modern agriculture and food production. This course is ideal for students interested in precision farming, agricultural machinery, sensors, and smart technologies while building a strong foundation in agriculture, computing, and engineering.

Curriculum structure

Year 1:
In first year, students develop core scientific knowledge through modules such as Animal Biology and Evolution, Introductory Chemistry, and Mathematics for Agriculture. They also study Physics for Agricultural Science and Introduction to Agricultural Economics and Business, alongside Cell and Plant Biology to understand the biological and physical systems used in agricultural technology.

Year 2:
Second year introduces engineering and computing concepts with modules including Agricultural Engineering Principles, Computer Programming, and Applied Biostatistics. Students also explore Agricultural Microbiology and Animal, Crop and Soil Science, helping them connect agricultural production systems with technology-driven solutions.

Year 3:
In third year, students focus on smart farming technologies through modules such as Agricultural Mechanisation, Sensors and Sensing Systems, and GIS and Remote Sensing. The year also includes Data Structures and Algorithms and Professional Work Experience, giving students practical exposure to agricultural technology and digital agriculture systems.

Year 4:
Final year develops advanced knowledge in precision agriculture with modules including Precision Agriculture, Precision Livestock Management, and Databases and Information Systems. Students also complete an Experimental Project and study Life Cycle Assessment and Quantitative Risk Assessment, preparing them for careers in technology-driven agricultural environments.

Focus areas: Precision agriculture, agricultural engineering, sensors and sensing systems, GIS and remote sensing, agricultural data science, machinery systems, smart farming technologies, agricultural automation

Learning outcomes: Understanding of agricultural engineering systems, ability to apply sensors and digital technologies in farming, knowledge of precision agriculture tools, data analysis and programming skills, machinery and mechanisation expertise, sustainable agricultural technology development

Professional alignment (accreditation): Technology-focused agricultural science degree combining engineering, computing, and agriculture with professional work experience and research project

Reputation (employability rankings): Graduates develop specialist skills in precision agriculture, agricultural engineering, and digital farming technologies supported by industry placement and project-based learning

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

Students in the Agricultural Systems Technology (ETS2) program at University College Dublin build practical skills through hands-on training with agricultural machinery, sensors, and data-driven farming technologies. The course combines laboratory work, programming, and field-based learning, allowing students to apply engineering and digital tools to real agricultural systems. A structured professional placement and final-year project further strengthen technical experience, while students work with GIS, precision agriculture tools, and modern agricultural equipment throughout the degree:

16-week Professional Work Experience placement in third year with agri-tech companies, farms, and technology-focused organisations
Laboratory practicals linked to modules such as Sensors and Sensing Systems, Optical Sensing Technology, and Agricultural Mechanisation
Training in GIS and Remote Sensing for spatial analysis and precision agriculture applications
Programming and data analysis experience through modules including Computer Programming, Data Structures and Algorithms, and Databases and Information Systems
Final-year Experimental Project focused on developing precision agriculture or agricultural technology solutions
Hands-on learning with agricultural machinery, mechanisation systems, engines, and hydraulics
Practical training in precision agriculture and precision livestock management using digital monitoring tools
Group-based technical projects and applied assignments across engineering and agricultural technology modules
Opportunities for international study at partner universities in the USA and Australia
Applied learning in sustainability engineering, life cycle assessment, and risk assessment for agri-food systems

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of the Agricultural Systems Technology (ETS2) program at University College Dublin progress into technology-focused careers across agriculture, engineering, and agri-food industries. The blend of engineering, data science, and precision farming skills prepares students for roles such as agri-tech specialist, precision agriculture advisor, agricultural engineer, and machinery systems manager. With professional work experience and technical project training, graduates are well positioned for roles in production, consulting, IT, and manufacturing environments:

Career pathways include production agriculture, environmental protection, consulting, equipment manufacturing, and agri-technology sectors
Graduates move into technical and managerial roles in production systems, service provision, environmental protection, information technology, manufacturing, and product design
16-week Professional Work Experience placement in third year provides real-world industry exposure in Ireland or abroad
Study abroad opportunities with partner universities in the USA and Australia help build international experience
UCD Careers Network supports students with career coaching, CV workshops, employer events, and recruitment fairs
Strong training in sensors, precision agriculture, machinery systems, and data management enhances employability in agri-tech industries
Graduates secure roles across agri-food companies, agricultural engineering firms, and technology-focused organisations

Further Academic Progression:
After completing this program, students can continue to postgraduate study in areas such as digital technology for sustainable development, environmental technology, food engineering, sustainable energy, or green technology. These options allow graduates to specialise further in agricultural engineering, precision agriculture, sustainability, or advanced technology innovation.