Agriculture is considered one of the fastest growing subjects at UK universities, with over 20,000 students studying agriculture and its related subjects. The rise in applicants to study agriculture is partly due to a push from the industry to lower the average age of the UK farmer, which is currently 59. Younger people are being encouraged to enter the sector, and as a farming nation, universities in the UK can provide the knowledge and skills needed to succeed.
Gaining a degree in agriculture from a UK university in agriculture is the ideal preparation to enter and understand the industry. The course can often be studied alongside subjects such as business and supply chain and logistics, meaning a wider variety of careers to move into upon completing your degree.
Learn more about the top five universities in the UK (QS World University Rankings by Subject 2024) that offer agriculture programmes. Arrange a free consultation with SI-UK today to begin your application.
Top Five Agriculture Universities and Courses in the UK
1. University of Reading
The University of Reading is amongst the top 30 universities in the UK and is currently ranked 169th worldwide (QS World University Rankings 2024). Its talented, vibrant student community, passionate academics, and excellent facilities will enrich your life experience while studying there.
What they say: “This course covers everything that impacts production in the supply chain. It prepares you for senior roles in a wide range of farming enterprises.”
- Course to consider: BSc Agriculture
- Entry requirements: A-level: BBB; a minimum of one science at A level. IB diploma: 30 points overall, including an acceptable science subject at a higher level.
- International fee: £29,950
2. University of Nottingham
The University of Nottingham is a member of the UK's prestigious Russell Group and is ranked in the world's top 100 universities and the UK's top 25 (QS World University Rankings 2024).
What they say: “Combining a core programme of crop and animal production with business management and marketing, our course offers considerable flexibility to enable you to focus on your area of interest.”
- Course to consider: BSc Agriculture
- Entry requirements: IB score: 30 (including 5 in one science-based subject at Higher Level). A-level: BBB, including one science-based subject.
- International fee: £27,200
3. University of Edinburgh
The University of Edinburgh is a leading Scottish university with excellent facilities and varied resources that benefit its 13,000-strong international community of students.
What they say: "This programme crosses traditional disciplinary boundaries to produce graduates ready to address the challenge of achieving sustainable food security in the 21st century. Students simultaneously engage with the detailed scientific methods required to understand the physical dimensions of sustainable food systems, and the socio-economic theories required to achieve productive policy change across diverse societies."
- Course to consider: PhD Agriculture and Food Security
- Entry requirements: A UK 2:1 honours degree or its international equivalent in a related subject.
- International fee: £31,500
4. University of Leeds
The University of Leeds is a world top-100 university (QS World University Rankings 2024) and one of the most prestigious universities in the UK. Renowned for its teaching and research quality, Leeds welcomes over 38,000 students from 170 countries and is one of the widest ranges of degrees in the UK.
What they say: "Students can choose one of the following four pathways to specialise in after your first year, from molecular medicine, infection and disease, genome biology and disease or plants and agriculture."
- Course to consider: BSc Biological Sciences
- Entry requirements: IB diploma: 6,6,5 at higher level, including biology or chemistry and other science or science-related subjects.
- International fee: £30,250
5. Harper Adams University
Harper Adams University is a higher education institution specialising in agricultural and rural studies, offering undergraduate and postgraduate degrees and research opportunities in areas such as agriculture, agribusiness, animal sciences, engineering, environmental management, food science, and rural estate management.
What they say: “You will be studying in a diverse range of learning spaces located at the heart of our Future Farm alongside students from a wide range of rural and urban backgrounds, whilst establishing a life-long network of friends and professional contacts."
- Course to consider: Agriculture BSc Honours
- Entry requirements: 96-112 UCAS points for A level students
- International fee: £13,250
Study Agriculture in the UK
If you want to learn more about all aspects of agriculture and forestry in the UK, arrange a free consultation with SI-UK. Our international consultants can help you receive an offer to study in the UK with expert UCAS application and personal statement advice.
FAQ
What qualifications do I need to study agriculture in the UK?
Qualifications required to study an agriculture course in the UK typically include A-levels or equivalent qualifications in biology, chemistry, environmental science, geography, or related fields. IB diploma scores are also applicable in almost all universities.
What are the international fees for agriculture in the UK?
International students' tuition fees typically range from £14,000 to £30,000 annually. Postgraduate fees vary more widely, ranging from £10,000 to £35,000 annually.
How much do agriculture jobs pay in the UK?
Salaries for agriculture-related jobs can range from around £15,000 to £30,000 per year for entry-level positions, with experienced professionals potentially earning upwards of £40,000 or more annually, particularly in managerial or specialised roles.
Which universities in the UK have the highest acceptance rate for agriculture?
Some universities known for their strong agriculture programmes include Harper Adams University, the University of Reading, the University of Nottingham, and the University of Aberdeen.
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