Who is the Course for
This is a broadening course for students with a basic grounding in plant
biology, who want to develop their knowledge of commercial crop
production and the postharvest handling of horticultural crops.
Applicants will normally hold a BSc or equivalent in a related topic,
but applications are equally welcome from individuals with extensive
industrial experience. Applications from non-UK students are
particularly welcome.
Course Aims
The scheme will provide students with the opportunity to:
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Study to an advanced level the techniques used for
the production and postharvest handling of horticultural crops and
the underlying mechanisms which determine and limit these
techniques |
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Develop a thorough knowledge of the horticultural
business environment and marketing processes concerned with the
trade of horticultural produce |
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Apply research methodology and information technology
to horticultural practice |
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Identify and critically evaluate important trends and
developments within the horticultural industry |
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Identify the needs of national and international
communities, and reconcile these with the aims and objectives of
specific horticultural organisations |
Delivery and
Assessment
Teaching methods include lectures, workshops, seminars, tutorials,
visits, case studies and student managed learning. Self guided study
takes place under the supervision of horticultural staff who ensure that
students maximise their use of all study facilities at the College,
including the estate. Students will be assessed by a variety of methods
including written papers, case studies and project reports. This
flexible approach allows students to monitor their knowledge and skills
development throughout the course.
The research project/dissertation provides an opportunity to undertake
specialist research in specific fields. It must also include an
investigative component to demonstrate that the student can apply
learning to a problem-solving situation. The project is supervised by a
member of the academic staff, and takes place over a 20-week period
during the summer. The research project can be based at Writtle or at an
external organisation; international placements may also be arranged.
However students who embark upon an industry-based project must have
access to the same level of facilities and support as students carrying
out their research at the College.
Key Features
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A combination of theory, practical experience and
industrial visits alongside the development of interpersonal and
communication skills |
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An international dimension to the course content |
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Opportunity to undertake original research in the UK
or abroad |
Career Prospects
Upon completion of the course, graduates have moved into crop production
with international growers and management positions with major
import/export organisations.
Modules
Compulsory Core
Units
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Controlled Environment Agriculture (H4S407) |
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Dissertation Project (M0040) |
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Floriculture (H4S408) |
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Fruit & Vegetable Production (R0030) |
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International Horticultural Crop Production (R0032) |
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Literature Review (M0010) |
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Managing in the International Environment (H4B362) |
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Packaging & Product Innovation (H4S410) |
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Postharvest Physiology & Pathology (R0035) |
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Personal Development Planning (R0034) |
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Research Methods (M0001) |
Options
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Logistics & Supply Chain Management (H4B409) |
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Tropical Crops (M0006) |
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