Total of 180 credits

Module code Module title Level Credit value Core/ Elective Semester
7A014 Integrated Agricultural Systems 7 15 Core Autumn
7M001A Research Skills 7 15 Core Autumn
7A004 International Rural Development 7 17 Core Autumn
7A001 Poverty and Food Security 7 15 Core Autumn
7B007 Entrepreneurship and Business Planning 7 15 Elective Autumn
7A012 Environmental Science and Technology in Agriculture 7 15 Elective Autumn
7B006 Sustainable Business Strategy 7 15 Elective Autumn
7A009 Organic and Regenerative Systems 7 15 Elective Autumn
7M002 Dissertation 7 45 Core Spring
7A008 Managing Global Soils in a Changing Climate 7 15 Core Spring
7A015 Facing the Global Challenges in Food and Agriculture 7 15 Core Spring
7A007 Livestock Production Technology and Innovation 7 15 Elective Spring
7A005 Climate Change and Sustainability 7 15 Elective Spring
7A002 Small Scale Farming and Local Food Supply 7 15 Elective Spring
7A006 Crop Production Technology and Innovation 7 15 Elective Spring
Total Credits: MSc Sustainable Agriculture and Food Security    180    

7A001 Poverty and Food Security

Led by Philip Hudson, this module explores global challenges in poverty alleviation and food security, including food sovereignty, nutrition, and supply chain resilience. Students critically evaluate international and local strategies and propose solutions. Assessment is a three-part written report: a 750-word analysis, a 30-minute interview (750 words), and a 1000-word self-reflection. Learning is supported by online resources and seminar discussions.

7A002 Small Scale Farming and Local Food Supply

Led by Jonathan Code, this module examines the role of small-scale farming in sustainable food systems. Topics include policy, agroecological initiatives, economics, and ethics. Students engage with case studies and local food innovators. Assessment includes a 1500-word case study and a 2000-word policy brief. The module supports critical evaluation of farming scale, sustainability, and food security across diverse contexts.

7A004 International Rural Development

Led by Dr Atenchong Talleh Nkobou, this module critically explores rural development theory and practice, emphasizing sustainability, decoloniality, and systemic approaches. Students engage in team projects, scenario-based activities, and field visits. Assessment includes a team presentation (30%) proposing solutions to rural development challenges and a 3000-word individual critical essay (70%). The module builds competencies in project management, cross-cultural communication, and policy analysis.

7A005 Climate Change and Sustainability

Led by Emmanuel Zuza, this module addresses the causes, consequences, and solutions to climate change, focusing on sustainability and adaptation strategies. Students critically evaluate mitigation approaches and design multidisciplinary responses. Assessment is a 3000-word essay (100%), testing critical analysis and argumentation. Weekly online lectures and seminars support student-led discussions and collaborative learning.

7A006 Crop Production Technology and Innovation

Led by Patricia Mathabe, this module explores advanced crop technologies including AI, robotics, IoT, and remote sensing. Students critically assess their impact on food systems and environmental sustainability. Assessment includes a 3000-word case study (70%) and a 20-minute presentation (30%). Teaching combines blended learning, field activities, and seminars to develop innovation, synthesis, and communication skills.

7A007 Livestock Production Technology and Innovation

Led by Lisa Morgans, this module focuses on precision livestock technologies and their application to welfare, yield, and sustainability. Students evaluate current and emerging agritech solutions across global livestock systems. Assessment includes a 2000-word professional practice report (80%) and a 10-minute presentation (20%). Learning is supported by lectures, seminars, and field visits, with emphasis on evidence-based innovation.

7A008 Managing Global Soils in a Changing Climate

Led by Ishwar Pun, this module addresses soil degradation and climate change impacts on global agriculture. Students explore soil biodiversity, carbon sequestration, and sustainable management strategies. Assessment is a 3000-word report (100%) requiring critical analysis and solution design. Weekly seminars and lectures support student-led discussions and collaborative learning, with a focus on adaptation and resilience.

7A009 Organic and Regenerative Systems

Led by Jonathan Code, this module explores the principles and practices of organic and regenerative agriculture in addressing food sovereignty, climate change, and environmental degradation. Students engage in lectures, seminars, and farm visits. Assessment is a 3000-word report (100%) synthesizing learning and proposing pathways for transitioning to sustainable food systems. The module emphasizes systems thinking, peer learning, and policy analysis.

7A012 Environmental Science and Technology in Agriculture

Led by Emmanuel Zuza, this module examines the environmental impacts of agriculture and the role of technology in promoting sustainability. Students analyse environmental factors, innovations, and policy frameworks. Assessment is a 3000-word report (100%). Learning includes lectures, seminars, and field sessions, fostering critical evaluation and proactive engagement with sustainability challenges.

7A014 Integrated Agricultural Systems

Led by Karen Rial-Lovera, this module explores temperate and tropical farming systems, including agroforestry and aquaponics. Students critically evaluate crop, livestock, and mixed enterprises under social, economic, and environmental pressures. Assessment includes a group case study report (70%) and a 5-minute individual presentation (30%). Learning is delivered through blended formats including seminars, farm walks, and group discussions.

7A015 Facing the Global Challenges in Food and Agriculture 

Led by Philip Hudson, this module examines global policy mechanisms affecting the agri-food industry. Students analyse climate agreements, trade policies, and development strategies, and propose innovative solutions. Assessment is a 2500-word essay (100%) critically analysing a policy instrument. Teaching includes lectures, seminars, and group work, fostering strategic thinking and policy engagement.

7B006 Sustainable Business Strategy

Led by Tosin Lagoke, this module explores strategic business models with a focus on sustainability, CSR, and competitive advantage. Students analyse internal and external environments, evaluate strategic options, and integrate sustainability into operations. Assessment is a 3000-word report (100%) on development options for a real organisation. Learning includes seminars, case studies, and online resources.

7B007 Entrepreneurship and Business Planning

Led by Ian Evans, this module explores the entrepreneurial process from opportunity recognition to business planning and pitching. Students examine SME start-up strategies, financial forecasting, legal structures, and sustainable growth. Assessment information is yet to be ratified.

7M001A Research Skills

Led by Atenchong Talleh Nkobou, this module develops core research competencies for postgraduate study and professional practice. Students explore research philosophy, design, data analysis, and ethics, preparing for dissertation work. Assessment includes a 1000-word self-reflection (30%) and a 2000-word research proposal (70%). Teaching combines seminars and online learning to foster critical thinking and enquiry-based learning.

7M002B Dissertation

Led by Atenchong Talleh Nkobou, this summer variant of the dissertation module mirrors the autumn version. Students conduct independent research, applying problem-solving and analytical skills developed throughout their programme. Assessment is a 12,000–15,000 word dissertation (100%), showcasing their ability to investigate a topic in depth and contribute original insights.