Agriculture

Agriculture is an exciting and rapidly evolving field of study, encompassing the scientific, practical and business principles behind this varied industry.

With a history spanning more than 130 years of educating the world’s agriculturalists, the University of Reading is consistently highly ranked in the subject league tables. We are the highest-ranking UK university for this subject area, ranked 20th in the world (QS World University Rankings by Subject 2025 – Agriculture & Forestry). We’re ranked 6th in the UK for Agriculture and Forestry (in the Times & The Sunday Times Good University Guide 2025).

Our academics' research influences government policy, and new innovation and industry developments, and this expertise feeds directly into their teaching across many areas, including sustainable land management, crop science, and animal sciences. Study at a UK leading university for environmental and ethical performance (the University of Reading is ranked 4th in the People and Planet University League, 2024/25).

We have an international mission and ethos, with more than 70 nationalities represented in our staff and student body. This mix, and the broad range of degrees offered in the wider University, means that you will meet and socialise with people with diverse interests and backgrounds.

Our close and longstanding links with farmers and other land-based industries provide real-life experience and an opportunity for networking and research. Our degrees are supported by an extensive programme of visits to regional farms, agricultural businesses, enterprises and organisations, including a residential course. You will also have access to our own 800 hectares of mixed farms and woodland, home to our modern research facilities and commercial farming enterprises.

In BSc Agriculture you will primarily focus on the applied science underpinning agricultural production and will learn how to use biology and technology to meet crop and animal production targets and achieve environmental objectives. 

BSc Agricultural Business Management combines in depth study of financial and business management principles for rural enterprises, with understanding of agricultural processes across key sectors. 

These courses cover practical skills and can include time spent on university-based farms and on placements. Guest speakers and other stakeholders of the agricultural industry contribute actively to the courses, giving you the opportunity to build relationships and improve your knowledge of employment options. You will have the chance to attend farming and rural conferences and seminars, locally and nationally, all of which provide excellent networking opportunities. You will also have the opportunity to participate in six-week summer placements linked to research undertaken at the University, generally completed between your second and final year.

Possible careers after these degrees include farm management, animal and crop research and consultancy services, and overseas development work. They are the perfect route into the diverse agriculture sector, its related industries and sustainable rural livelihoods. The University of Reading ranks 1st for graduate salary for Agriculture, Food and related studies after five years.*

Studying Agriculture at Reading means you’ll be part of a School committed to empowering change and our academics are working to tackle some of the world’s most pressing issues. Consideration of global sustainability issues and how they impact all areas of our lives, including the sustainable production of our food, form a key part of our teaching.

*Based on The Telegraph, August 2024, analysis of DfE data on the earnings of first degree graduates after five years from English Higher Education Institutions.