Agricultural Systems Technology  (ETS2)

The Agricultual Systems Technology programme(s) is aimed at students who wish to build their knowledge and skills-base to address the complexities of developing, deploying and managing technology for the agriculture sector. With a focus on design, numeracy and technology, our students are committed and engaged wtih agricultural production, and specifically technology to enhance efficiency, sustainablity and reliability. Technologies of interest range from computer systems, networks, data management and sensors through machinery systems to precision agriculture. Students will work both individually and in teams while studying modules in basic science, agricultural sciences, engineering technologies and data science delivered by internationally recognised research active academic staff to ensure the content addresses state-of-the-art technologies and innovation. While the major retains an emphasis on lectures and practicals, there is a significant use of problem solving, applications, online materials and work experience to support learning and to provide practical experience. The Agricultural Systems Technology major results in a level 8 BAgrSc (Hons) degree, that can lead directly to a career path or to Masters degrees in Agricultural Systems Technology, Environmental Technology or Sustianable Energy and Green Technologies. These allow students the flexibility to specialise with advanced programmes aligned to their specific interests.

1 - Understand the main components and processes underpinning agricultural systems
2 - Understand the scientific underpinning of technology for agriculture
3 - Understand and assess the full range of health & safety issues associated with work in a farm, factory or forest environment, and be able to use a range of field/laboratory/office/equipment in an efficient and safe way
4 - Manage sensors, data and information in the farm management environment
5 - Assess the role of, and potential for development, of technology for sustainable agricultural development
6 - Devise scientific investigations relevant to all aspects of agricultural systems technology, apply appropriate research methodologies, and interpret findings
7 - Devise and implement technical and technological strategies for optimum agricultural production
8 - Carry out holistic environmental assessment of agricultural production systems
9 - Evaluate agricultural machinery and energy systems and carry out sustainable farm systems management
10 - Evaluate and devise sensing technology for agricultural management
11 - Use a range of written and oral communication techniques and channels to interact effectively with all stakeholders
12 - Develop the ability to direct personal learning and understand the importance of engagement in life-long learning

There are opportunities to study abroad for one trimester in third year. Possibilities include:

• University of California, USA
• University of Queensland, Australia
• Michigan State University, USA
• Kansas State University, USA
• Purdue University, USA

UCD is Ireland’s Global University and its largest university with a track record in empowering students to enter a diverse range of careers that reflects the most diverse curriculum on the Island of Ireland. Consistently, over 90% of graduates are employed or in further study or training 9 months following course completion. The QS World Ranking on Graduate Employability has placed UCD at number 1 in Ireland for Graduate Employability since 2018. On the global stage UCD leads the Irish higher education sector and is the only Irish university to be ranked inside the world’s top 80 for Graduate Employability.

At University College Dublin we are aware that for many students, programme outcomes in terms of graduate jobs and career options is important. The purpose of this statement is to help you understand and appreciate the range of skills you may develop during your time at UCD and how you may develop your employability. Visit the UCD Careers Networks website and MyCareer, the UCD Career management Platform, to access career information, internships and graduate roles as well as information about the range of initiatives, supports and events available to you.

Graduates will find rewarding and challenging employment in agri-food industries, including:

• Production Agriculture
• Environmental Protection
• Consulting
• Equipment Manufacturing
• Agri-Tech

Typical Roles Include Technical and Managerial Positions in:

• Production
• Service Provision
• Environmental Protection
• Information Technology
• Manufacturing
• Process & Product Design

There are also excellent graduate study opportunities to specialise in Digital Technology for Sustainable Development, Environmental Technology, Food Engineering, Sustainable Energy and Green Technology.

Dr Sharon O’Rourke
e. sharon.orourke1@ucd.ie

UCD Agriculture & Food Science School Office
Agriculture & Food Science Centre
Belfield, Dublin 4

Contact Us

Stage 1

In addition to the 50 credits of core and option modules, students must take elective modules amounting to 10 credits.

Stage 2

In addition to the 55 credits of core modules, students must complete 5 credits of elective modules.

Stage 3

In addition to the 55 credits of core modules, students must complete 5 credits of elective modules.

Stage 4

In addition to the 55 credits of core modules, students must complete 5 credits of elective modules.

See the UCD Assessment website for further details, including worked examples of how degree award GPAs are calculated

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