Agriculture

Fees are required to be paid in full before training commences.

The Professional Doctorate of Agriculture is delivered in two parts:

• Part I is undertaken for a minimum of two years and comprises two taught modules from the MSc Sustainable and Efficient Food Production and ‘Research Methods taught module, plus a portfolio of work or a research thesis (approximately 20,000 words in length). Each taught module is worth 20 credits and takes 12 or 14 weeks to complete. The short Part I thesis should involve analysing existing data from the candidate’s workplace. For example: 'Reviewing historical mineral deficiency data by species and region: analysing and interpreting the findings'. Students may exit here with an MRes.
• Part II is undertaken for a minimum of three years and comprises a longer portfolio of work or a research thesis (up to 60,000 words). It will involve experimentation and must embody the methodology and results of original research. It should, ideally, be built upon the Part 1 thesis. Thus, from the example above, could be something like: 'Changing practices and introducing innovation to combat mineral deficiencies'.

Duration:

Five to seven years to complete. 14 weeks for one module by distance learning. Three intakes per year (January, May, September).

Part I of the doctoral route comprises three taught modules (including Research Methods) followed by a 120 credit dissertation (20,000 words). This part will typically take 2-3 years. Part II is undertaken for a minimum of three years and comprises a longer thesis (up to 60,000 words). It will involve experimentation and must embody the methodology and results of original research. It should, ideally, build upon the Part I dissertation. 

We have designed our training to be as accessible as possible, particularly for those in full time employment. Each taught module comprises a 12 or 14 week distance learning module worth 20 credits which can be taken for your own continuing professional development or interest, or built towards a postgraduate qualification. The research elements of our qualifications are carried out in your workplace with regular academic supervision. The training is web-based which means that as long as you have access to a reasonable broadband connection (i.e. are able to stream videos such as on YouTube), you can study where and when best suits you. Learning material includes podcast lectures, e-group projects, guided reading, interactive workbooks and discussion forums, as well as assignments and e-tutorials. By signing a re-registration form each year you will have access to e-journals and library resources for the duration of your registration.

Assessment:

There are no exams within this programme. Taught modules are assessed via course work and forum discussion. Research is monitored and assessed. The viva is an integral part of the examination of the Part II thesis.

Core Modules:

Research Methods - This compulsory module is available three times a year so that students can fit it around their optional modules. This module must be taken before you begin your research project.

Work-based Thesis (120 Credits) - This compulsory module can be started in any semester. This module should only be taken when Research Methodology and Advances in Biosciences has been completed and will involve a work-plan developed with your tutor, academic supervisor and employer (if relevant). The thesis should involve analysing existing data from your workplace.

Research Thesis - The compulsory Research Thesis is undertaken for a minimum of three years and comprises a longer portfolio of work or a research thesis (up to 60,000 words). It will involve experimentation and must embody the methodology and results of original research. It should, ideally, be built upon the Work-Based Thesis. It will involve a work-plan developed with your tutor, academic supervisor and employer (if relevant).