The honours degree in agricultural technology, a long-standing programme delivered jointly by CAFRE Greenmount and Queen’s University Belfast (QUB), is set to conclude. The last intake of students for this degree will be in September 2025, as confirmed by a QUB spokesperson. This decision follows a review by the School of Biological Sciences, which determined that changes were necessary in agricultural provision to better align with market needs and practices.
The agricultural technology degree, which has been running for over two decades, offers students a three- or four-year programme. The curriculum is structured with the first two years of teaching at Greenmount, followed by an optional work placement year, and the final year at Queen’s in Belfast. The programme has seen consistent interest, with 18 first-year students enrolling last year.
This development leaves the honours degree in sustainable agriculture, validated by Ulster University, as the sole degree-level course in agriculture available at CAFRE. This programme, which began in September 2021, typically attracts around 40 new students annually. The future of agricultural education at QFRE and QUB remains uncertain. It is unclear whether QUB will introduce a new degree in agriculture from September 2026 onwards, or if additional degree-level courses will become available at CAFRE.
The implications of this decision are significant for prospective students and the agricultural sector. The agricultural technology degree has been a key pathway for students seeking to enter the agricultural industry with a strong technical background. Its discontinuation may require students to explore alternative educational routes or institutions.
Despite the changes, QUB has expressed its commitment to continuing its partnership with CAFRE. The university plans to collaborate on various projects, including the delivery of an MSc in business for agri-food and rural enterprise business. This ongoing partnership underscores the importance of collaboration in agricultural education and research.
The decision to end the agricultural technology degree programme highlights the evolving nature of educational offerings in response to market demands. It also underscores the need for continuous review and adaptation of academic programmes to ensure they remain relevant and effective in preparing students for their future careers. As the agricultural sector continues to evolve, so too must the educational pathways that support it.