Bachelor of Science (Honours) Agricultural Science

4 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

South East Technological University Waterford

Program Overview

The BSc (Hons) in Agricultural Science at South East Technological University is a four-year Level 8 programme designed for students who want to combine science, technology, and practical farming knowledge to build a career in modern agriculture. It is well suited to students interested in food production, farm management, agri-business, and sustainable agricultural systems, with a strong focus on both scientific learning and real industry experience.

Curriculum Structure:
In Year 1, students build a strong scientific foundation through modules such as Introductory Biology, Chemistry for Scientists, Plant Biology, Animal Biology, Mathematics for Scientists, and Good Laboratory Practice and Core Skills. This year is focused on understanding the core biological and chemical principles that support modern agricultural science.

In Year 2, students move into more applied agricultural science with subjects including Microbiology, Agricultural Soils Management, Animal Nutrition, Grassland and Dairy Production, Beef and Sheep Production, Tillage Crop Production, and Food Process Technology. Practical and laboratory work becomes more important as students begin to connect science with real farming and food production systems.

In Year 3, the programme focuses on real-world application and industry experience through modules such as Food Management Systems, Agriculture and the Environment, Farm Business, Animal Breeding and Technology, and Crop Technology. Students also complete either a Farm Placement or Industrial Placement, giving them direct exposure to commercial farming or agri-food operations.

In Year 4, students specialise further with advanced topics including Applied Farm Management, Animal Health, Welfare and Behaviour, Soil Nutrient Management, Food Traceability and Bio-analysis, Sustainable Crop Management Systems, Agricultural ICT, and Marketing Strategy for Small Business, along with a major Land Science Research Project. This year develops strong analytical, research, and leadership skills for careers in agriculture.

Focus Areas:
Agricultural science, farm systems management, livestock production, crop production, soil science, food science, agribusiness, environmental sustainability, biotechnology, agricultural research

Learning Outcomes:
Graduates will be able to apply scientific knowledge to agricultural systems, manage farm and food production processes, analyse data to improve efficiency and sustainability, and contribute to innovation in the agri-food sector.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation):
This programme supports eligibility for the Green Cert, which is required for young farmer schemes and agricultural land transfer in Ireland. It is also aligned with industry expectations in the agri-food sector through its strong focus on science, research, and practical training.

Reputation (Employability rankings):
South East Technological University is a recognised Irish technological university with strong links to the agriculture and agri-food industries. The programme is highly practical and placement-focused, supporting strong graduate outcomes across farming, research, food production, and agribusiness careers.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

Students on the BSc (Hons) in Agricultural Science at South East Technological University develop strong practical and industry-ready skills through a combination of scientific laboratory work, real farm experience, and structured industry placements. A key feature of the programme is its strong connection with Kildalton Agricultural College, where students work directly in active livestock, crop, and soil systems while applying scientific knowledge in real agricultural settings. This is supported by fieldwork, research projects, and industry engagement that ensures students graduate with both scientific understanding and hands-on competence.

Experiential learning is delivered through practical training, research-based learning, and real industry exposure:

Practical farm training at Kildalton Agricultural College using working dairy, beef, sheep, and tillage systems
Laboratory work in microbiology, soil science, animal nutrition, plant science, and food analysis
Option in Year 3 to complete a farm placement or industrial placement in agri-food companies, gaining real workplace experience
Structured farm placements on commercial farms through industry partnerships, including real farm management exposure
Use of agricultural machinery and farm mechanisation equipment for field operations and production systems
ICT and digital tools for agricultural planning, budgeting, and data-based decision-making
Field visits and applied learning activities focused on sustainability, environmental management, and modern farming practices
Final-year research project involving field or laboratory-based investigation using scientific methods
Access to university library resources, scientific journals, and agricultural research databases
Continuous mentoring and support from academic staff and industry professionals throughout practical training and placements

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of the BSc (Hons) in Agricultural Science at South East Technological University are well prepared to build careers across Ireland’s farming, agri-food, and environmental sectors. The programme develops strong scientific understanding alongside practical and business skills, allowing graduates to step into roles in farm management, advisory services, agribusiness, and food production. It also supports long-term career growth into leadership and specialist positions within modern agriculture.

Typical graduate roles include Farm Manager, Agricultural Advisor, Quality Assurance Officer, Agribusiness Sales Representative, and technical roles within food production and environmental services.

University services supporting employment:

SETU Careers Service offering CV preparation, interview training, and personalised career guidance
Structured farm and industrial placements that help students build strong industry connections before graduation
Continuous academic mentoring and placement supervision to strengthen employability skills

Employment stats and salary figures:

Strong employability outcomes due to extensive practical training and industry placements
Entry-level salaries vary by role, with clear opportunities for progression into higher-paying supervisory and management positions over time
Consistent demand in Ireland’s agri-food sector supports stable long-term employment prospects

University–industry partnerships:

Collaboration with Teagasc and Kildalton Agricultural College for hands-on training and farm-based learning
12-week supervised farm or industrial placement in Year 3 with industry partners
Direct exposure to commercial farming operations and agri-food enterprises throughout the programme

Long-term accreditation value:

Supports eligibility for the Green Cert, which is required for young farmer schemes and land transfer in Ireland
Recognised Level 8 honours degree aligned with national standards in agriculture and agri-food industries

Graduation outcomes:

Prepared for employment in farming, agribusiness, advisory, and food production sectors
Ability to manage agricultural systems and contribute to sustainable farming practices
Strong foundation for both technical and managerial roles in agriculture

Further Academic Progression:
Graduates can continue to postgraduate study such as Master’s degrees in Agricultural Science, Agribusiness, Environmental Management, or other specialised agricultural and rural development areas at SETU or other higher education institutions.