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WHO IS THE COURSE FOR:
This is an advanced
course for students from a broad range of biological disciplines, who
want to develop an in-depth understanding of the way fresh horticultural
produce must be handled, transported and stored to maintain quality from
grower to consumer. 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:
Study to an
advanced level the techniques used for the postharvest handling of
horticultural crops and the underlying mechanisms which determine
and limit these techniques
Develop a
thorough knowledge of the fresh horticultural business environment
and marketing processes concerned within the trade of
horticultural produce
Apply research
methodology and information technology to postharvest
horticultural practice
Identify and
critically evaluate important trends and developments within the
horticultural industry
Identify the
needs of national and international communities, and reconcile
these with the aims and objectives of specific postharvest
technology 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 a practical
experimental 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, but 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 course with a
strong commercial focus, including site visits and guest lecturers
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A strong
international flavour in both crops and practices
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Opportunity to
undertake original research in the UK or abroad |
CAREER PROSPECTS:
Upon successful
completion of the course, graduates have gained employment with major
wholesale, retail and import/export organisations where produce quality
is paramount, and where supply objectives are on a global scale.
Modules
Compulsory
Core Units
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Controlled Environment Agriculture (H4S407) |
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Dissertation Project (M0040) |
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International Horticultural Crop Production (R0032) |
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Literature Review (M0010) |
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Logistics & Supply Chain Management (H4B409) |
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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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Post Harvest Technology (M0044) |
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Research Methods (M0001) |
Options
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Floriculture (H4S408) |
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Tropical Crops (M0006) |
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