Crop Production
Learn how to tackle food insecurity and climate change through real-world research and transformative learning. Become an innovator at ARU in Writtle.
It's possible to study this course part-time. You'll take the same modules as MSc/MA 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 MSc/MA course takes one year, you can expect to study over two years, though for some courses this may vary.
Save money on your course fees as an ARU graduate.
See if you're eligible for our Alumni Scholarship
With the global population rising, climate change intensifying, and land use under increasing pressure, sustainable crop production has never been more vital. On this course, you’ll gain the in-depth knowledge and practical skills required to meet these urgent global challenges.
You’ll discover how innovative technologies, advanced production techniques, and new sustainable crops are already transforming the horticulture and agriculture sectors – and how you can take the lead on future developments.
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Study on a specialist land-based campus with research glasshouses and a working farm
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Learn from experts in sustainable agriculture, horticulture and controlled environment agriculture systems
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Develop advanced practical skills through field work, commercial visits and research
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Explore the supply chain from production to postharvest and global trade
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Engage with industry partners and guest speakers leading innovation in sustainable food systems
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Build strong research and analytical skills to address real agricultural challenges
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 lead innovation in agriculture and horticulture.
You’ll graduate ready to make an impact in a range of dynamic, future-focused roles – for example, with major crop producers, ornamental plant industries, or organisations involved in wholesale, retail, and import/export.
Graduation doesn't have to be the end of your time with us. You might decide to continue your academic career and join a research programme at ARU. Take advantage of our Alumni Scholarship and save £400 on your fees.
Teaching and modules
Gain an understanding of crop production today and in the future.
By studying sustainable practices, postharvest management, circular economies, strategic business management and the global forces shaping food supply, you’ll develop a broad and integrated understanding of crop production across field and protected systems.
At the same time, you’ll practice analysing complex problems and designing evidence-based systems. You’ll accrue hands-on experience through practical sessions, case studies, commercial site visits, and opportunities to explore emerging technologies.
You’ll complete your Master’s with 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 Crop Production (15 credits)
- Applied Research (Methods) for Managers (15 credits)
- Cropping Systems and Innovations (15 credits)
- Strategic Management (15 credits)
- Into ARU
- Postharvest Systems Management (15 credits)
- Sustainable Global Business Management and Circular Economics (15 credits)
- Controlled Environment Agriculture (15 credits)
- Food Security and Sustainable Farm Management (15 credits)
- Taught Masters Degree - Dissertation (60 credits)
It's possible to study this course part-time. You'll take the same modules as MSc/MA 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 MSc/MA 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 Kami BaghalianSenior Lecturer in Crop Production
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Dr Robin GowersSenior Lecturer
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Dr Anya PereraDeputy Head of School
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Dr Anne MumbiSenior Lecturer in Agribusiness for Sustainable Production
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Chungui LuProfessor in Smart Agriculture
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Dr Christos GerofotisLecturer
Facilities
Here at ARU Writtle, you'll enjoy our expansive 150 hectare campus, offering:
- A rural campus on the edge of the village of Writtle, in the middle of the Essex countryside.
- A fully operational farm, home to sheep, pigs, and cattle, alongside a variety of arable crops and grass leys.
- Dedicated conservation areas, carefully managed to support local biodiversity.
- A state-of-the-art Science Centre, complete with modern labs and purpose-built teaching spaces.