The agricultural industry is undergoing an unprecedented period of change. Traditional reliance on production is being challenged through changes in government policy at local, national, European and global levels, as well as changes in consumer demand.
Agricultural production now requires an understanding of these demands and other concerns regarding food quality and safety and the environmental impact of production methods in the short, medium and long term.
The Agricultural Technology degree programmes enable graduates to gain an understanding of:
• Crop and animal production systems for the sustainability of the agricultural industry, including the underpinning scientific, economic and business principles and the applicability of recent developments
• The impact of global, EU and regional policy on the agricultural industry
• Assessing agri-environment interactions and devising environmental management strategies
• Managing agriculture as a business
• A professional approach to the work environment, study and life-long learning
• Devising, managing and evaluating project work
Additionally, the Agricultural Technology with Professional Studies Programme enables graduates to gain an understanding of the application of their degree to the workplace and career management planning.
Agricultural Technology with Professional Studies highlights
World Class Facilities
A unique feature of this degree is the opportunity for students to take responsibility for the operation and management of a College farm enterprise, allowing immediate practical application of knowledge.
Student Experience
Students taking this four-year degree are required to complete a minimum 46-week work placement period as an integral component of their degree. Past students have gained work placement with organisations such as the Agri-Food and Biosciences Institute, Countryside Services, Dale Farm, Fane Valley, John Thompson and Sons, Monaghan Mushrooms, Moy Park, and Millridge Ltd and Tamar Farming Co. (both in New Zealand).
Further Study Opportunities
Further study is also an option – development of research skills in final year through project work means that graduates are also well equipped for postgraduate study for PhDs, and can choose from a wide range of Master’s programmes, including those in Animal Behaviour and Welfare and Leadership for Sustainable (Rural) Development offered through the School of Biological Sciences.
Student Testimonials
Agriculture is a passion of mine and I felt that this degree offered excellent job prospects. I am really enjoying the course – it’s relevant, and interests me, which is a help when it comes to learning. For my work placement I hope to go into the genetics side of arming, as I have a keen interest in this from running a pedigree herd at home. For this I hope to either go to America or New Zealand.” Robert Patterson, Northern Ireland
Student, BSc Agricultural Technology
The degree has been developed in consultation with employers, industry and academics, to offer students a combined curriculum of formal education and practical experience, which is designed to enhance employability and graduate skills.
The BSc in Agricultural Technology with Professional Studies is provided jointly by the School of Biological Sciences, Queen’s and the College of Agriculture, Food and Rural Enterprise (Greenmount Campus, Antrim). Stages 1 and 2 are delivered mainly at Greenmount Campus, where students are involved in the work and management of specific agricultural enterprises. Students spend their third year on placement and Stage 3 is delivered mainly at Queen's University Belfast.
Students will spend a minimum of 46 weeks in a work placement during which they will carry out some project type work. Students will begin preparations for the placement in the first semester of stage 2 and the placement will be assessed within the module, Professional Studies, BIO3303. Any students who are unable to secure a work placement will be transferred to the BSc Agricultural Technology Programme.
School of Biological Sciences Biosciences-ug@qub.ac.uk
Contact Teaching Hours
Large Group Teaching
9 (hours maximum)
Personal Study
29 (hours maximum) Additional Private study of 29 hours
Learning and Teaching
On the BSc in Agricultural Technology with Professional studies programme, aim to deliver a high quality learning environment by providing a range of learning experiences. This programme is provided jointly with the College of Agriculture, Food and Rural Enterprise (CAFRE). The partnership arrangement between CAFRE and Queen’s capitalises on the strengths of both institutions to provide a course that is academically challenging but also focused on the application of science, business and economic principles. Stages 1 and 2 are mainly delivered at the CAFRE Greenmount Campus and Stage 3 is mainly delivered at Queen’s in Belfast. The Greenmount Estate Farm is a major resource used to deliver this programme. The campus “farm” comprises the Farm Development Centre (200 hectares) and the Livestock Development Centre (1,100 hectares).
Complementary Qualifications
At Stages 1 and 2 students have the opportunity to take a range of complementary qualifications that enhance employability e.g. PA series of spraying courses, Health and Safety, ECDL, Artificial Insemination, First Aid, Telehandler driving.
Assessment
Details of assessments associated with this course are outlined below:
The way in which you are assessed will vary according to the Learning objectives of each module. Some modules are assessed solely through project work or written assignments. Others are assessed through a combination of coursework and end of semester examinations. Details of how each module is assessed are shown in the Student Handbook which is provided to all students during their first year induction.
Feedback
As students’ progress through their course at Queen’s they will receive general and specific feedback about their work from a variety of sources including lecturers, module co-ordinators, placement supervisors, personal tutors, advisers of study and peers. University students are expected to engage with reflective practice and to use this approach to improve the quality of their work. Feedback may be provided in a variety of forms including:
formal written comments, face-to-face comments, placement employer comments or references, online or emailed feedback, pre-submission advice, and feedback and outcomes from practical classes.
The information below is intended as an example only, featuring module details for the current year of study (2024/25). Modules are reviewed on an annual basis and may be subject to future changes – revised details will be published through Programme Specifications ahead of each academic year.
Animal Biology: An introduction to the structure and function of animal cells, anatomy and physiology. Principles of microbiology and the major roles of micro-organisms in animal production. Principles of genetics.
Animal Nutrition: comparative digestion and metabolism of ruminant and non-ruminant farm animals; feed analysis, composition and use of feeds; nutrient requirements of farm animals. Ration formulation/feeding practice/feed efficiency. Animal Health: introduction to the nature and control of disease.
Animal Husbandry: The key husbandry and management components of milk, beef, sheep, pig and poultry production including the basic principles of feeding, reproduction, animal behaviour and animal welfare. Production cycles, systems and targets of dairy and beef cattle, sheep, pigs and poultry. The Codes of Practice and legislative requirements of milk, beef, sheep, pig and poultry production.
Learning Outcomes
On completion of the module, students will have acquired knowledge and developed understanding of the scientific principles of animal biology, health, welfare and nutrition and be able to appreciate the relevance and importance of these topics in animal production systems. Students will have gained an introduction to the key husbandry, management and legislative requirements of milk, beef, sheep, pig and poultry production systems.
Skills
By successful completion of the module, students will be able to apply relevant scientific principles to animal production and will have developed competence in practical laboratory skills, safe laboratory working, numeracy, manual and computerised formulation of diets, presentation and interpretation of data, written communication, collating and interpreting physical performance data for a range of livestock enterprises, improving their own learning and performance, development of group skills, problem solving and literature reviewing.
Principles of mechanisation of agricultural production systems; power production and utilisation; conventional and alternative energy sources; hydraulics; mechanical and electronic control systems; ergonomics of machinery; machinery management; soil cultivation machinery; grassland machinery and the distribution of agricultural waste.
Farm Buildings: Farmyard planning, building design and layouts, use of materials, construction, ventilation, farm waste storage & treatment.
Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of the module, students will have acquired the knowledge to (i). Assess the risks associated with the use of agricultural machinery, the physical performance and environmental efficiency of agricultural machines and mechanised systems. Select tractors and equipment on the basis of technical criteria. Cost and manage farm machinery. (ii) Appreciate the need for planning the built environment in order to ensure efficient production and meet environmental requirements. Assess welfare and legislative requirements for the design, construction and operation of agricultural buildings.
Skills
On completion of the module the student should be able to demonstrate the ability to: write technical reports, presentation skills, draw and interpret graphs and charts, interpret building layout drawings and undertake calculations of physical and financial data
Basic and applied aspects of growth, development, physiology and, reproduction and nutrition of crops. Principles of identification, competitive effects and control of weeds, diseases and pests. Structure, composition and sustainable management of soils. Interaction between soil characteristics and plant growth. Plant species and soil identification skills. The key husbandry components of selected crops including the basic principles of cropping systems, crop establishment, nutrient management, their environmental impact and sustainability.
Learning Outcomes
On completion of the module, students will have acquired knowledge and understanding of the fundamental concepts of soil science, plant growth, plant processes, their application to crops and the key principles of the sustainable production of selected crop species.
Skills
By successful completion of the module, the student should have achieved competence in a range of crop husbandry, analytical, interpretative and identification, laboratory, development of team working and report writing skills.
Business
The management process, setting farm business objectives and the role of IT in farm management. Farm accounts, recording systems and data analysis, preparation of enterprise accounts, profit and loss account and balance sheets for farm businesses. Basic principles of economics including supply, demand, elasticities and production economics. Synopsis of agricultural production and historical structural changes.
Research Methods
The essential skills to maximise academic achievements and learning. Key elements of the research process; information retrieval and referencing procedures. The scientific method and an introduction to statistical analysis using appropriate statistical software
Learning Outcomes
On completion of this module students should have developed knowledge and understanding of:
The basic concepts of farm management including setting farm objectives, recording and analysing enterprise data and the economic principles of resource allocation.
The role of research and the key components of the scientific method. The role of statistics in the research process. An introduction to statistical analysis – hypothesis testing, inference statistics and experimental design.
Skills
On completion of this module students should be able to:
*Allocate resources within the farm business
*Record and analyse farm data
*Prepare and analyse Gross Margin and Profit and Loss accounts
*Retrieve, select, reference and evaluate information from a range of sources
*Interpret data using inference statistics
*Competently use selected software applications for statistical analysis.
*Demonstrate ICT, numeracy and decision making skills.
Introduction to farm enterprises. Operation and management of selected farm enterprises. Systems, processes, controls and outputs of an enterprise, use of information technology and its application within these systems. Recording and retrieving physical and financial information. Production of enterprise management reports and comparison with targets and industry benchmarks. Interview skills and CV preparation.
Students will select 2 enterprises at the commencement of the module from: milk production (C.R.E.A.M. Project), beef & sheep production (Hill beef &sheep production: U.P.L.A.N.D.S. Project* or lowland beef & sheep production : REDMEAT Project*) & crop production (CROPS Project). Each enterprise will be studied for 1 semester.
Students will be allocated to their chosen enterprises on a Semester basis, based on student numbers and practicality.
( * 1 from UPLANDS or REDMEAT per year)
Learning Outcomes
By the end of the module students will be able to demonstrate knowledge and understanding of:
i) Annual/seasonal enterprise policy (assessed in presentations and interview)
ii) The key aspects of husbandry and their effect on product quality and quantity (assessed in presentations and interview)
iii) The implications of husbandry on animal welfare and behaviour (assessed in enterprise duties and skills demonstrated)
iv) The implications of enterprise policy on sustainable, environmentally sensitive production (assessed in enterprise duties)
v) Factors affecting farm enterprise physical performance (assessed in reports and interviews)
vi) Factors affecting farm enterprise financial performance (assessed in presentations and reports)
vii) CV preparation (assessed in CV to be presented to mock interview panel)
viii) Main points for consideration when preparing for a job interview (assessed during mock interview)
Skills
i) Operation and management of farm enterprises in a safe manner with cognisance of animal welfare and environmental implications (assessed in enterprise duties, skills demonstrated and interview)
ii) Assimilation and evaluation of information (assessed in presentations and skills)
iii) Numerical procedures (assessed in presentations)
iv) Data presentation and interpretation (assessed in presentations and skills)
v) Written communication (assessed in skills and CV preparation)
vi) Oral communication (assessed in presentation, skills and enterprise duties and mock interview)
vii) Interpersonal, team and group working skills (assessed in enterprise duties and skills)
viii) Practical husbandry and mechanisation skills (assessed in skills demonstrated)
Farm business management including farm business planning, enterprise performance studies & benchmarking, budgeting (cash flow, partial, break-even, sensitivity analysis), concepts of financial (profit & Loss, balance sheet etc) and management accounting (enterprise gross profits, fixed costs etc), investment appraisal techniques, income and capital taxation and EU agricultural policy.
Agri-food supply chain and marketing management including the procurement, movement and storage of materials, parts and finished inventory through organizations and their marketing channels. Logistics management, communication, globalization, moral and ethical issues in the supply chain. Cost reduction and sustainability. Market research including demand and supply, market segmentation, and competitor analysis. The elements of the marketing mix including product development, pricing, promotion & selling.
The alternative land use and diversification element will investigate diversification options for rural farm businesses, such as food processing, tourism, leisure related facilities as well as various alternative land use systems such as renewable energy (wind, solar, hydro & AD).
Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of the module students will have acquired knowledge and developed an understanding of the concepts of farm management. These include planning, budgeting, accounting, investment appraisal, taxation and impact of EU agricultural policy.
They should have acquired knowledge and understanding of effective agri-food supply chain management and marketing.
They will have the knowledge and basic understanding of the underlying principles necessary to investigate options for sustainable diversification including alternative land use.
Skills
On successful completion of the module students should have achieved competence in planning, budgeting, accounting, investment appraisal and be aware of taxation and impact of EU agricultural policy implications on their farm businesses. Students will also be able to interpret and critically evaluate data, demonstrate problem solving, use of ICT and competency in numeracy.
Students should have achieved competence in planning, organizing and monitoring of agri-food supply chains. They should be able to research the market and understand the marketing & selling of agri-food products. Students will be able to demonstrate creative thinking and communication skills; presentation skills and group debating will also be developed.
Students should have developed competence in understanding alternative land uses and diversification opportunities, report writing, oral communication with peers and industry, time management and computer applications.
Agricultural practices over the last century & their impact on landscape, water, soil, air and biodiversity. The evolution of sustainable agriculture: economic, societal and environmental. Sustainability and agricultural policy (eg CAP, IACS and LPIS; Cross Compliance. Rural Development Policy and implementation; Agri-environment Schemes). Sustainability in agri-business (eg Carbon Trust ; ISO 14001, LEAF). Sustainable livestock and crop production. Biodynamic and organic systems. Emerging transitions (community supported agriculture, social farming). Renewable energy in agri-business.
Learning Outcomes
By the end of the module, students will have knowledge and understanding of :
- the development and implementation of policies for sustainable agriculture.
- sustainable livestock and crop production systems.
Skills
Students should have developed competence in understanding the history and development of modern sustainable agricultural policies and systems. Students will have achieved competence in the production of case studies and reports. Students will be able to demonstrate communication skills and creative thinking.
This module aims to give students an in depth understanding of the principles of production and marketing of milk, beef, sheep, pigs and poultry and associated products.
Topics studied include:
Breeds, genetic improvement and associated technologies. Feed efficiency, growth, and carcase/product composition. Factors affecting product quality and modification of product composition to meet consumer requirements. Feeding breeding, lactating, growing and finishing animals. Feeds, feeding systems and alternative feeds.
The key principles of grass production, utilisation and conservation are also addressed along with the agronomic characteristics of the main grass varieties used in UK agriculture and identification of unproductive weeds and grasses detrimental to profitable livestock production.
The impact of livestock production on soil, air and water pollution are investigated along with statutory strategies: Statutory Management Requirements (SMRs), Cross Compliance and Codes of Good Agricultural Practice (COGAP), to reduce pollution. The impact of livestock production on biodiversity and the contribution of livestock production to climate change and carbon foot printing are also investigated.
This module builds on applied animal science, studied in year 1 and examines in more detail the key components of market led, environmentally sensitive, sustainable production of milk, beef, sheep, pigs and poultry and associated products in a commercial environment.
Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of the module the student will have acquired knowledge and developed an understanding of the principal components of and recent developments in sustainable livestock production of the major farm animal species, the environmental impact of livestock production and steps that can be taken to ameliorate.
Skills
On successful completion of the module the student will have developed competence in, word processing, numeracy, data assimilation, presentation, interpretation and analysis, creative thinking, written communication and self management skills
This module aims to give students an in depth understanding of the principles of sustainable crop production management and marketing including alternative land use, quality assurance schemes and diversification and greening.
Topics studied include:
Management of crop yield and quality. Integrated crop management; organic systems and precision agriculture. Applied crop physiology and yield formation. Manipulation of crop physiology. Pest and disease identification, assessment and risk management for specific crops. Harvest and post-harvest management.
Marketing and supply chain. Market specifications. Sustainable crop production. Economic vs environmental sustainability – the balance and opportunities to improve efficiency. Economic and environmental sinks –nitrogen and diesel.GM Crops. Horticultural crops.
EU policies, cross compliance and CAP greening.
Alternative land use – forestry, energy crops and biomass production.
Learning Outcomes
By the end of this module students will have developed their knowledge and understanding of sustainable crop production systems, their management strategies and marketing systems.
Skills
On completion of the module students will have developed competence in selection, planning, implementation and evaluation of crop production systems. They will have developed creative thinking, ability to interpret and summarize scientific literature, written and oral communication skills.
1. Preplacement preparation including; the selection of placement,
application forms, CV's and interviews. Evaluation of placement by student,
including potential to relate academic theory to the work place, skills
development and project development.
2. On placement work including; relating academic theory to the workplace, recording activities and reflection in a log book. 3. Post placement reflection of learning and career prospects.
1. Preplacement preparation including; the selection of placement,
application forms, CV's and interviews. Evaluation of placement by student,
including potential to relate academic theory to the work place, skills
development and project development.
2. On placement work including; relating academic theory to the workplace, recording activities and reflection in a log book. 3. Post placement reflection of learning and career prospects.
Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of this module students will be able to:
LO1: Apply subject knowledge of theoretical and practical concepts to provide solutions in the work-related environment
LO2: Evidence development in work related transferable skills
LO3: Manage and deliver project type work in the workplace setting
LO4: Demonstrate employability skills and an enhanced career plan.
LO5: Demonstrate an understanding of the importance of Health and Safety in the work environment.
LO6: Exhibit effective communication skills in both the academic and work environment.
LO7: Demonstrate the ability to work as part of a team and reflect on your role in the team.
LO8: Evaluate and reflect upon your learning experience in the work environment
Skills
Students will identify and evaluate the skills which they have developed
during the placement, which may include: communication (oral and written); problem-solving; team work; IT; presentational; personal development and reflection.
An individual desk-based project with literature review and associated report in the form of a dissertation. The project will include a literature review, data analysis and problem solving. The dissertation will be prepared according to accepted protocol within the discipline. The project topic and dataset will be provided by the module coordinator. The project literature review will be on a topic to be agreed between the student and lecturer and may be on any topic of relevance to the degree programme.
Learning Outcomes
By the end of the module students will demonstrate: the ability to critically analyse current information on a specific topic and communicate findings in written and oral form; the ability to execute a work plan and manage progress on a day-to-day basis; the ability to interpret data and communicate their findings in written form.
Skills
By the end of the module students will have demonstrated skills in: retrieval of relevant information using traditional and computer-based search facilities; organisation and time management; project management and planning; interpretation of data and presentation of results in written form; oral and written communication.
This module with cover a range of international, national and local policies about an array of important environmental concerns. Students will learn about air and water quality policies, climate change policy, waste management, agricultural policies and managing biodiversity, wildlife and fisheries. Students will also learn about the impacts that Brexit has had on UK and NI policies.
Learning Outcomes
By the end of the module students will be able to demonstrate a knowledge and understanding of international and local policies in relation to environmental quality and sustainability and the practical implementation of these policies.
Skills
By the end of the module students will be able to demonstrate written skills and presentation of information; they will be able to gather, analyse, interpret and synthesise information.
Strategic business management and innovation . An introduction to management theory and management practice, comprising, planning, organising, staffing, leadership, entrepreneurship and control of management resources.
Learning Outcomes
By the end of the module students will be able to demonstrate: an enhanced understanding and appreciation of key business management issues; the need for innovation and the role of entrepreneurship.
Skills
By the end of the module students will be able to demonstrate: written and oral communication skills; analytical skills based on the theory and methodology of business economics and marketing to solve business problems; IT skills.
Advances in Crop and Animal Science and Technology
Overview
This module will investigate recent developments in science and technology of benefit to those subject areas covered within the Agricultural Technology degree programme. These include recent developments in animal nutrition and production science, in plant biotechnology and in environmental sustainability.
Learning Outcomes
By the end of the module students will be able to demonstrate knowledge and understanding of recent scientific and technological advances relevant to their course, how these may be applied and what the consequences of application may be. Students will also be able to evaluate these recent advances in relation to their benefits and drawbacks.
Skills
Written and oral skills; ICT including powerpoint; Sourcing, evaluating and synthesising information; Critical evaluation and decision making; Group working and team skills.
This course is designed to provide an overview of topical areas of concern in relation to farm animal health and welfare. This will include outlining key diseases and animal welfare problems within the intensive and extensive agricultural sectors. In addition, fundamental information on the concept of animal welfare, on animal suffering, and on animal health issues such as immunity, disease transmission and biosecurity will be provided. The aim is also to provide an overview of relevant regulatory procedures, and of the role of research in improving farm animal health and welfare. This course is designed to build on Level 1 Applied Animal Science.
The course will consist of a series of lectures and a visit to a commercial fam. In addition, students will be required to prepare seminar presentations on areas related to animal health and welfare, and to do a practical assignment in parasitology. Individual written reports will also be assigned.
Learning Outcomes
A student completing this course should have a good understanding of the basis of various disease syndromes and welfare problems in farm animals, and be familiar with management practices for the control of such issues. Students should also have a knowledge and understanding of fundamental issues relating to animal health and welfare. Students should be able to critically assess the role of research in improving farm animal health and welfare.
Skills
Oral and written communication; analysis and synthesis of information; problem solving.
This module investigates issues affecting agriculture at an international level. These include issues such as food safety, global population growth and food security, and climate change. In addition, mechanisms of policy formation and impacts of recent policy changes (such as decoupling of EU agricultural support) will be discussed. Possible future changes in agriculture related to issues such as obesity, or to increasing competition from aquaculture enterprises, will also be addressed.
Learning Outcomes
On completion students will be able to demonstrate a knowledge and understanding of key issues affecting agriculture on a global scale. In particular, students will gain a greater understanding of likely future changes to conventional systems of agriculture. Critical assessment of the range of information available and synthesise info into a comprehensive discussion.
Skills
Written and oral skills: Information Computer Technology including bibliographic databases; sourcing evaluation and synthesising information; critical evaluation and decision making; group working and team skills.
BBB including at least two relevant subjects (see list below) + GCSE Mathematics grade C/4
OR
ABB including a relevant subject (see list below) + GCSE Mathematics grade C/4.
Applicants not offering A-level Biology, A-level Chemistry or a BTEC in Agriculture should have GCSE Chemistry grade C/4 or GCSE Double Award Science grades CC/44.
A maximum of one BTEC/OCR Single Award will be accepted as part of an applicant's portfolio of qualifications with a Distinction* being equated to a grade A at A-level and a Distinction being equated to a grade B at A-level.
Irish Leaving Certificate
H3H3H3H3H4H4/H3H3H3H3H3 including Higher Level grade H3 in two relevant subjects (see list below) + if not offered at Higher Level then Ordinary Level grade O4 in Mathematics
OR
H3H3H3H3H3H3/H2H3H3H3H3 including Higher Level grade H3 in a relevant subject (see list below) + if not offered at Higher Level then Ordinary Level grade O4 in Mathematics.
Applicants not offering Agricultural Science, Biology or Chemistry at Higher Level must have Chemistry at Ordinary Level grade O4.
BTEC Level 3 Extended/National Extended Diploma
A relevant agriculture/science QCF Level 3 BTEC Extended Diploma (180 credits), with DDD + GCSE Chemistry grade C/4 or GCSE Double Award Science grades CC/44 + GCSE Mathematics grade C/4.
OR
A relevant agriculture/science RQF Level 3 BTEC National Extended Diploma (1080 Guided Learning Hours (GLH)), with DDD + GCSE Chemistry grade C/4 or GCSE Double Award Science grades CC/44 + GCSE Mathematics grade C/4.
Access/Foundation Course
Successful completion of Access Course with an average of 65%. Must be relevant Access Course - normally Science based. GCSE Mathematics grade C/4 or equivalent in Access Course.
BTEC Higher National Certificate
Successful completion of a relevant agriculture/science HNC with 1 Distinction and remainder Merits + GCSE Chemistry grade C/4 or GCSE Double Award Science grades CC/44 + GCSE Mathematics grade C/4.
Graduate
A minimum of a 2:2 Honours Degree, provided that subject specific requirements are met.
All applicants
Relevant Subjects:
Agricultural Science, Biology, Chemistry, Computer Science, Digital Technology, Environmental Science/Technology, Geography, Geology, Home Economics, ICT, Life & Health Sciences, Mathematics, Physics, Physical Education, Psychology, Software Systems Development, Technology & Design. Other subjects considered on an individual basis.
Note
All applicants must have GCSE English Language grade C/4 or an equivalent qualification acceptable to the University.
How we choose our students
In addition, to the entrance requirements above, it is essential that you read our guidance below on 'How we choose our students' prior to submitting your UCAS application.
Applications are dealt with centrally by the Admissions and Access Service rather than by the School of Biological Sciences. Once your on-line form has been processed by UCAS and forwarded to Queen's, an acknowledgement is normally sent within two weeks of its receipt at the University.
Selection is on the basis of the information provided on your UCAS form, which is considered by a member of administrative staff from the Admissions and Access Service and, if appropriate, the Selector from the School. Decisions are made on an ongoing basis and will be notified to you via UCAS. These decisions can only be made on the basis of the information given and applicants must show due care and diligence when completing their applications. In particular, full details must be included about qualifications completed or still to be completed.
For entry last year, applicants for the Agricultural Technology degree must have had, or been able to achieve, a minimum of five GCSE passes at grade C or better (to include English Language and Mathematics), though this profile may change from year to year depending on the demand for places. The Selector also checks that any specific entry requirements in terms of GCSE and/or A-level subjects can be fulfilled.
Offers are normally made on the basis of three A-levels. Two subjects at A-level plus two at AS would also be considered. The minimum acceptable is two subjects at A-level plus one at AS though candidates offering this combination will be considered on an individual basis.
The offer for repeat candidates is normally the same as that for first time applicants. Grades may be held from the previous year.
A-level General Studies and A-level Critical Thinking would not normally be considered as part of a three A-level offer and, although they may be excluded where an applicant is taking four A-level subjects, the grade achieved could be taken into account if necessary in August/September.
Applicants offering other qualifications, such as BTEC National and Higher National Certificates/Diplomas, the International Baccalaureate, Irish Leaving Certificate or an Access course, will also be considered. The same GCSE profile is usually expected of those candidates offering other qualifications.
For applicants offering Irish Leaving Certificate, please note that performance at Junior Certificate is taken into account. For last year’s entry applicants for this degree must have had, a minimum of 5 IJC grades C/Merit, though this profile may change from year to year depending on the demand for places. The Selector also checks that any specific entry requirements in terms of Leaving Certificate subjects can be satisfied.
For those offering a relevant Higher National Diploma or Foundation Degree, there may be the possibility of advanced entry to Stage 2 depending on relevance of the HND/Foundation Degree and first year results. Where offers are made for entry to Stage 2 students would be required to achieve good results in the units assessed in final year of their HND/Foundation Degree. Those not eligible for entry to Stage 2 would be considered for entry to Stage 1.
The information provided in the personal statement section and the academic reference together with predicted grades are noted but, in the case of the Agricultural Technology degree, these are not the final deciding factors in whether or not a conditional offer can be made. However, they may be reconsidered in a tie break situation in August.
Applicants are not normally asked to attend for interview.
If you are made an offer then you may be invited to a School Visit Day, which is usually held in the second semester. This will allow you the opportunity to visit the University and to find out more about the degree programme of your choice and the facilities on offer. It also gives you a flavour of the academic and social life at Queen's.
If you cannot find the information you need here, please contact the University Admissions and Access Service (admissions@qub.ac.uk), giving full details of your qualifications and educational background.
International Students
Our country/region pages include information on entry requirements, tuition fees, scholarships, student profiles, upcoming events and contacts for your country/region. Use the dropdown list below for specific information for your country/region.
English Language Requirements
An IELTS score of 6.5 with a minimum of 5.5 in each test component or an equivalent acceptable qualification, details of which are available at: http://go.qub.ac.uk/EnglishLanguageReqs
If you need to improve your English language skills before you enter this degree programme, INTO Queen's University Belfast offers a range of English language courses. These intensive and flexible courses are designed to improve your English ability for admission to this degree.
Academic English: an intensive English language and study skills course for successful university study at degree level
Pre-sessional English: a short intensive academic English course for students starting a degree programme at Queen's University Belfast and who need to improve their English.
International Students - Foundation and International Year One Programmes
INTO Queen's offers a range of academic and English language programmes to help prepare international students for undergraduate study at Queen's University. You will learn from experienced teachers in a dedicated international study centre on campus, and will have full access to the University's world-class facilities.
These programmes are designed for international students who do not meet the required academic and English language requirements for direct entry.
Studying a degree in Agricultural Technology with Professional studies provides a wide range of graduate opportunities for students interested in the agricultural, agri-environmental and related industries.
The majority of our graduates will seek careers in the agricultural, agri-environment or agri-food sectors, in roles including; marketing/sales, production and management, technical advice, and research and development in commercial companies.
Employment after the Course
The degree has been developed in consultation with employers, industry and academics, to offer students a combined curriculum of formal education and practical experience, which is designed to enhance employability and graduate skills.
Employment Links
This programme was developed after extensive consultation with government bodies, major farming organisations, the food processing sector, farmers and conservation organisations, and the curriculum reflects these consultations. This close industry involvement has continued. The initial years of this programme were overviewed by an industry group representing LANTRA, AFBI, DARD and the UFU.
Industry representatives play a significant role in the operation of student learning projects where they use their expertise to guide students running major college enterprises.
In addition, major employers such as Dunbia, Moy Park and Thompsons have contributed competitive bursaries to support students on the programme.
Students organise an industry symposium as part of final year, providing opportunities to engage with key stakeholders within the local industry.
Placement Employers:
The work placement is compulsory and is assessed as an integral component of the degree programme, contributing 10% to the final degree classification. Students are supported in obtaining work placement through a series of workshops and by a dedicated School Work Placement and Careers Advisor. We work repeatedly with a number of employers and students can also propose their own placement.
Past students have gained work placement with organisations locally, nationally and internationally such as:
Moypark
John Thompson and Sons
Countryside Services
Dale Farm
Fane Valley
Monaghan Mushrooms
Agri-Food and Biosciences Institute
Tamar Farming Co (New Zealand)
Millridge Ltd (New Zealand)
Each year several students are offered permanent jobs, on graduation, from their work placement providers.
Degree Plus/Future Ready Award for extra-curricular skills
In addition to your degree programme, at Queen's you can have the opportunity to gain wider life, academic and employability skills. For example, placements, voluntary work, clubs, societies, sports and lots more. So not only do you graduate with a degree recognised from a world leading university, you'll have practical national and international experience plus a wider exposure to life overall. We call this Degree Plus/Future Ready Award. It's what makes studying at Queen's University Belfast special.
1EU citizens in the EU Settlement Scheme, with settled status, will be charged the NI or GB tuition fee based on where they are ordinarily resident. Students who are ROI nationals resident in GB will be charged the GB fee.
2 EU students who are ROI nationals resident in ROI are eligible for NI tuition fees.
3 EU Other students (excludes Republic of Ireland nationals living in GB, NI or ROI) are charged tuition fees in line with international fees.
The tuition fees quoted above for NI and ROI are the 2024/25 fees and will be updated when the new fees are known. In addition, all tuition fees will be subject to an annual inflationary increase in each year of the course. Fees quoted relate to a single year of study unless explicitly stated otherwise.
Tuition fee rates are calculated based on a student’s tuition fee status and generally increase annually by inflation. How tuition fees are determined is set out in the Student Finance Framework.
Additional course costs
Year 1 students on the Agricultural Technology pathway must buy a laboratory coat, boiler suit, waterproof coat and leggings, safety wellington boots and safety boots.
Students undertake a placement in year 3 and are responsible for funding travel, accommodation and subsistence costs. These costs vary depending on the location and duration of the placement.
Students may receive payment from their placement provider during their placement year. In year 2 students may choose to go on a Brussels Study Tour costing £250.
All Students
Depending on the programme of study, there may be extra costs which are not covered by tuition fees, which students will need to consider when planning their studies.
Students can borrow books and access online learning resources from any Queen's library. If students wish to purchase recommended texts, rather than borrow them from the University Library, prices per text can range from £30 to £100. Students should also budget between £30 to £75 per year for photocopying, memory sticks and printing charges.
Students undertaking a period of work placement or study abroad, as either a compulsory or optional part of their programme, should be aware that they will have to fund additional travel and living costs.
If a programme includes a major project or dissertation, there may be costs associated with transport, accommodation and/or materials. The amount will depend on the project chosen. There may also be additional costs for printing and binding.
Students may wish to consider purchasing an electronic device; costs will vary depending on the specification of the model chosen.
There are also additional charges for graduation ceremonies, examination resits and library fines.
How do I fund my study?
There are different tuition fee and student financial support arrangements for students from Northern Ireland, those from England, Scotland and Wales (Great Britain), and those from the rest of the European Union.
Application for admission to full-time undergraduate and sandwich courses at the University should normally be made through the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS). Full information can be obtained from the UCAS website at: www.ucas.com/students.
When to Apply
UCAS will start processing applications for entry in autumn 2025 from early September 2024.
The advisory closing date for the receipt of applications for entry in 2025 is still to be confirmed by UCAS but is normally in late January (18:00). This is the 'equal consideration' deadline for this course.
Applications from UK and EU (Republic of Ireland) students after this date are, in practice, considered by Queen’s for entry to this course throughout the remainder of the application cycle (30 June 2025) subject to the availability of places. If you apply for 2025 entry after this deadline, you will automatically be entered into Clearing.
Applications from International and EU (Other) students are normally considered by Queen's for entry to this course until 30 June 2025. If you apply for 2025 entry after this deadline, you will automatically be entered into Clearing.
Applicants are encouraged to apply as early as is consistent with having made a careful and considered choice of institutions and courses.
The Institution code name for Queen's is QBELF and the institution code is Q75.
Additional Information for International (non-EU) Students
Applying through UCAS
Most students make their applications through UCAS (Universities and Colleges Admissions Service) for full-time undergraduate degree programmes at Queen's. The UCAS application deadline for international students is 30 June 2025.
Applying direct
The Direct Entry Application form is to be used by international applicants who wish to apply directly, and only, to Queen's or who have been asked to provide information in advance of submitting a formal UCAS application. Find out more.
Applying through agents and partners
The University’s in-country representatives can assist you to submit a UCAS application or a direct application. Please consult the Agent List to find an agent in your country who will help you with your application to Queen’s University.
