Introduction to Agriculture & Rural Business

This four-day course is designed to offer participants an in-depth insight into resource use and the industries key to the rural economy. Interactive learning sessions will encourage in class discussion and debate in a series of workshop style forums.

Experiential and problem-based exercises will develop the ability of participants to learn about key concepts as they formulate action plans based upon the principles of the rural agricultural economy, farming systems and markets, environmental land resource management and business case study and investment options.

Completion of the course provides a good grounding for participants progressing the full BSc (Hons) 'Fast Track' degrees of either 'Rural Land and Business Management' or 'Sustainable Agriculture.

The course is designed as a four-day programme with progression from the first day (Day 1) to the second block (Day 2). 

Course Delivery

Block 1: 5th and 6th March

• Day 1: 9:00 - 16:00 with evening lectures
• Day 2: 9:00 - 16:00

Block 2: 8th and 9th April

• Day 1: 9:00 - 16:00 with evening lectures
• Day 2: 9:00 - 16:00

Course Cost

• Course fees for the full four-day programme (including lunch and an evening meal): £595
• Attendees may also book either block (Day 1 or Day 2) at a cost of £310 including lunch and evening meal
• Accommodation may be available on campus if required

Topics include:

• The global agricultural economy and commodities
• Agriculture in the UK ~ systems and change
• C21st Challenges & Opportunities
• The pressure for land and the rural land market
• Land Use and Net Zero

Of interest to those considering a career in agriculture or the rural economy whether:

• Pre-University
• Considering a change in career
• In their career in professional or advisory sectors servicing the rural economy and wanting to gain a broader picture of the sector
• New entrants to agriculture and rural business

Optional Reading Preparation 

This is an introductory course so there is no essential pre-reading. However, for those coming to the project completely afresh the following texts may be useful as part of wider study around the subject:

• Agriculture: A Very Short Introduction. Paul Brassley & Richard Soffe. 1st Edition 2016. Oxford University Press

We will refer to physical and financial outputs from various farming systems and one or other of the following will support this and will be important sources for a future career in agriculture:

• John Nix Pocketbook for Farm Management. Graham Redman. 54th Edition 2024. The Anderson Centre (published annually ~ colloquially referred to as Nix )
• Agricultural Budgeting and Costing Book. 98th Edition May 2024. Agro Business Consultants (published six monthly ~ colloquially referred to as ABC)

The following statistical sources might also be helpful and will be referenced during the course:

• Agriculture in the UK 2023
• RICS Rural Market Survey