Bachelor of Science (Hons) in Agriculture

4 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

Atlantic Technological University - Donegal Letterkenny Campus

Program Overview

The Bachelor of Science (Honours) Agriculture – Common Entry at Atlantic Technological University Donegal provides a strong foundation in modern agriculture, covering animal science, crop production, environmental management, and agricultural business. It is designed for students who want flexibility in the early years before specialising in either Animal and Crop Science or Environmental Management in the final year.

Curriculum structure

Year 1:
Students are introduced to the core principles of agriculture and the science behind food production systems. Modules such as Introduction to Agriculture, Animal Husbandry, Nutrition and Welfare, Fundamentals of Biology and Chemistry, and Agricultural Business Management help build a solid base in both science and farming practices. Alongside this, Communications and IT Skills and Mathematics Skills for Science develop essential academic and analytical abilities needed for future years.

Year 2:
In the second year, students deepen their understanding of animal science, soil and plant systems, and agricultural business while gaining valuable industry exposure through work placement. Modules like Animal Science, Soil and Plant Science, and Agricultural Business Management and Marketing help students connect theory with real farm and agribusiness practice, strengthening their technical and decision-making skills.

Year 3:
The third year focuses on more advanced and specialised agricultural knowledge. Students study areas such as Sustainable Agriculture, Animal Health, Reproduction and Genetics, and Crop Science and Mechanisation, which prepare them for higher-level thinking and applied problem-solving in farming systems and agricultural industries.

Year 4:
In the final year, students choose to specialise in either Animal and Crop Science or Environmental Management. Modules such as Agricultural Business and Economics, Climate Change and Agriculture, Environmental Management, and a Research Project allow students to focus on their career interests while developing strong research and analytical skills.

Focus areas (in a string):
Animal science, crop production, soil science, environmental management, sustainable agriculture, agricultural business, livestock production, agricultural economics, climate change and agriculture, agri-food systems

Learning outcomes (in a string):
Apply scientific principles to agriculture, manage livestock and crop systems, evaluate sustainable farming practices, analyse soil and environmental data, use agricultural business and economic concepts, conduct research projects, apply practical farm and industry skills, communicate technical agricultural information

Professional alignment (accreditation):
The programme is closely aligned with industry needs through practical training, structured work placement, and specialist study pathways that prepare graduates for roles across the agriculture and agri-food sectors.

Reputation (employability rankings):
Graduates progress into careers such as farm management, environmental management, agricultural consultancy, and agri-food research roles, reflecting strong industry relevance and applied learning outcomes.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

Students on the Bachelor of Science (Honours) Agriculture – Common Entry at Atlantic Technological University develop strong practical and technical skills through a mix of lectures, laboratory work, field-based training, and real farm experience. Learning is very hands-on at the Donegal campus, where students work with agricultural systems, take part in group projects, and gain industry exposure through structured placement opportunities built into the programme. The course also uses modern agricultural tools and scientific methods to prepare students for real farming and agri-business environments:

Practical training in animal science, crop production, soil science, and agricultural business using real farm systems and teaching facilities
Laboratory work in biology, chemistry, soil analysis, and environmental testing linked directly to agriculture modules
Structured industry placement providing real experience in farms and agri-business environments
Field-based learning including crop assessment, livestock management, and environmental studies
Group projects focused on solving real agricultural and sustainability challenges
Use of IT tools and digital systems for farm data analysis, reporting, and agricultural management tasks
Learning in animal husbandry, nutrition, welfare, crop science, and agricultural economics guided by academic and industry-experienced staff
Access to university library resources and agricultural research materials
Practical exposure to sustainable farming systems and environmental management practices throughout the programme.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of the Bachelor of Science (Honours) Agriculture – Common Entry at Atlantic Technological University are well prepared for careers across the agriculture, agri-food, and environmental sectors. The programme develops strong scientific knowledge, practical farming experience, and industry-ready skills that support students in moving into roles in farm management, agricultural consultancy, environmental services, and agribusiness operations.

Farm Manager, Agricultural Consultant, Environmental Manager, Agri-business Executive, Agricultural Sales Representative, R&D Scientist, Agricultural Advisor, Livestock Production Manager, Crop Production Specialist, Farm Business Manager

ATU careers and employability services support students with CV building, interview preparation, and access to employer networking opportunities
Structured industry placement built into the programme helps students gain real work experience and improve employability after graduation
Strong links with the agriculture sector, agri-food industry, and related organisations support student career pathways
The honours degree is widely recognised within the agriculture industry and supports long-term professional development
Graduates typically progress into roles in farming, environmental management, agricultural services, and agribusiness sectors
Practical, work-based learning and placements help students build industry contacts and job readiness before graduation

Further Academic Progression:
Graduates can continue to postgraduate diplomas or master’s degrees in agriculture, environmental management, agri-business, or related scientific areas. They may also pursue research or specialised professional study to progress into advanced consultancy, policy, or leadership roles within the agricultural sector.