MSc Agriculture and Development

University of Reading

Examine the role of agriculture in international contexts with our MSc Agriculture and Development degree, designed for those pursuing careers in rural development, agricultural extension, or research.Study at one of the UK’s leading universities for environmental and ethical performance (the University of Reading is ranked 4th in the People and Planet University League, 2024/25).You will critically examine how agriculture – including horticulture – and agricultural research are addressing major challenges and opportunities in agricultural intensification and environmental sustainability, particularly in tropical and subtropical regions of the developing world.With an emphasis on farming systems and value chains, you’ll explore:the role and contributions of agriculture and horticulture to human development, food and nutritional security, livelihoods and ecosystem management.the biophysical, economic and social environments in which different types of agriculture are practised.advances in agricultural technology, research and practise in response to challenges such as institutional governance, poverty, climate change and environmental sustainability.how to enhance the relevance, quality and impact of agricultural research and farmer-led innovation processes in specific contexts, while recognising the weight of history and global political economy in the workings of the global agri-food system.