Agribusiness MBA
Explore the business of food and how it’s produced, distributed and consumed. Study at ARU in Writtle and prepare for a career in innovation.
It's possible to study this course part-time. You'll take the same modules as MBA students, but sometimes in a different order or in different years.
As a part-time student you'll typically study for twice as long as full-time students. For example, if the MBA course takes one year, you can expect to study over two years, though for some courses this may vary.
in the region for postgraduates progressing into senior roles.
Source: Graduate Outcomes Survey 2026
As climate change, resource scarcity and global food insecurity challenge traditional systems, they also unlock vast opportunities for innovation, impact and growth. On this MBA, you’ll develop the systems-based approach, sustainability insight, and digital fluency to meet these challenges.
At the same time, you’ll develop your management skills, with a focus on strategy, decision-making, and leading people through times of change that require them to reskill, upskill, and adapt.
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Learn how to build more resilient and sustainable food systems
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Explore regenerative business models and circular economy thinking
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Gain digital and leadership skills, and the know-how to drive change
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Apply your knowledge to real-world challenges through live projects and industry collaboration
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Study on a campus with a history of agricultural excellence
Study at an award-winning university
We were named Times Higher Education University of the Year 2023. We've also been awarded a Gold rating in the Teaching Excellence Framework – a reflection of the outstanding education we offer our students.
Careers
Prepare to take on leadership roles in a rapidly changing industry.
You’ll graduate with critical skills in sustainability, circular economics and strategic management, opening doors to careers in agribusiness, food supply chains, policy and sustainability consulting.
Through hands-on projects and guidance from industry experts, you’ll gain the confidence to drive innovation, improve productivity and support sustainable growth in food systems worldwide.
Teaching and modules
Learn and apply professional skills as you explore sustainable food systems.
You’ll focus on the efficient use of resources, postharvest practices and supply chain management to reduce waste and environmental impact.
You’ll analyse food security challenges, global sustainability goals, and innovative strategies such as Controlled Environment Agriculture. You’ll also evaluate current food systems and propose resilient, context-specific solutions for the future of agri-food production and global food security.
You’ll complete your MBA with your dissertation – a substantial research project on a relevant topic of your choice.
Modules are subject to change and availability, and may vary by location. If you have the choice of optional modules, these are indicated with a *.
- Sustainable Global Business Management and Circular Economics (15 credits)
- Postharvest Systems Management (15 credits)
- Food Marketing and Value Chain Management (15 credits)
- Applied Research (Methods) for Managers (15 credits)
- Food Security and Sustainable Farm Management (15 credits)
- Strategic Management (15 credits)
- Controlled Environment Agriculture (15 credits)
- Leading Sustainable Change Strategies and Innovation in Food Systems (15 credits)
- Postgraduate Major Project (60 credits)
- Into ARU
It's possible to study this course part-time. You'll take the same modules as MBA students, but sometimes in a different order or in different years.
As a part-time student you'll typically study for twice as long as full-time students. For example, if the MBA course takes one year, you can expect to study over two years, though for some courses this may vary.
Read profiles of teaching and research staff on this course.
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Dr Robin GowersSenior Lecturer
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Dr Kami BaghalianSenior Lecturer in Crop Production
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Dr Anya PereraDeputy Head of School
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Dr Christos GerofotisLecturer
Facilities
Enjoy a range of facilities designed to support your studies and career development.
These include extensive library and IT resources, and careers support through our Employability Service. After you graduate, you’ll have lifelong access to our Alumni Career Centre.
You can also access support, should you need it, with study skills, health and wellbeing, and more.
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Extensive 150 hectare campus which is like an 'Open laboratory'
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The Postharvest Unit, which undertakes research and trials with commercial companies
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Numerous livestock on our field and farm
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New state-of-the-art Superlab facilities on our Lordship campus
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Get hands-on with the latest agricultural technology
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![A tractor in a field]()
Extensive 150 hectare campus which is like an 'Open laboratory' -
![The Postharvest Unit, which undertakes research and trials with commercial companies]()
The Postharvest Unit, which undertakes research and trials with commercial companies -
![Livestock at Sturgeons Farm - mixed farm home to crops, pigs, sheep and cattle]()
Numerous livestock on our field and farm -
![New state-of-the-art Superlab facilities on our Lordship campus]()
New state-of-the-art Superlab facilities on our Lordship campus -
![Three students and their lecturer inspecting a large piece of machinery]()
Get hands-on with the latest agricultural technology