MA European Food and Agribusiness
This course is subject to validation.
In view of the globalisation of the food and related industries more employers are looking to attract good quality graduates. Multinational companies require managers with transnational knowledge and linguistic skills who are capable of functioning confidently and competently within the European arena. Managers must have an understanding of social, cultural, production and consumption conditions in the major markets. Sourcing and supply in the food sector is becoming increasingly complex and competitive.
The course focuses on the food and agribusiness industry and provides a unique opportunity for recently graduated students to study at two internationally renowned centres to put the management subjects concerned into a European context. This is accomplished by studying the taught part of the course at a European Partner Institution (EPI) and the School of Business at the Royal Agricultural College (RAC). The syllabus has been designed in conjunction with employers to give students the tools needed to compete at a high level in an intensely competitive industry.
Who is the Course for?
The recruitment is worldwide and the ideal candidate will be highly motivated with a good undergraduate degree (or equivalent), who wishes to attain a management position within a European company, agency or institution, where international business is a major activity. It will also suit candidates with aspirations to be academics, advisers, planners and consultants in business or government.
The MA provides the opportunity for study in two centres within Europe, creating commercial networking, trade links and opening career possibilities. The objective is to produce MA graduates who have the characteristics and skills which the food and agribusiness sector requires; competence in the core business subjects and experience of conditions within a European context.
Course Structure
The course is offered to full-time students and is delivered in three parts. The taught element of the course is split between the EPI (August to December) and the RAC (January to March). There are eight taught modules, of which four are taught across both teaching centres, with each centre teaching two unique modules in addition.
Core Modules
The following is indicative only as electives continue to be developed.
- Critical Issues in Financial Management (EPI & RAC)
- Personal and Organisational Change (EPI & RAC)
- Marketing: European Food and Agribusiness (EPI & RAC)
- Strategic Management (EPI/RAC)
- International Agrifood Issues (RAC)
- Logistic and Operations Management (EPI)
- Innovation Management (EPI)
- Critical Issues in Ethical Corporate Renewal and Leadership (RAC)
- ·Dissertation
Dissertation
The dissertation will be undertaken after the examinations, although you will be encouraged to consider your topic and plan the dissertation as early as possible. The dissertation is normally submitted before 1st April the following year.
What is the Learning Style?
Each module has a core of formal lectures, which are complemented by tutorials, seminars, workshops and cooperative work. Case study and group work play a significant role in the learning process, together with visits to companies and markets.
Assessments
Assessments will be via coursework, examinations and, in some modules, presentations and seminars. Modules taught only at the EPI or RAC will be assessed in that institution, whereas modules taught at both institutions will have an assessment at each. The dissertation is marked by the supervisor and a second marker, as well as being considered by the external examiner.
Entry Requirements
- The normal minimum entry requirement will be an Honours degree at upper second level or an equivalent academic qualification from a comparable international institution.
- Mature candidates with significant relevant work experience and lower academic qualifications may also be considered for entry, following personal interview with the Course Manager.
- If your first language is not English, we will accept the International English Language Test (IELTS) with a minimum score of 6.5 average with no element below 5.5.
- If you have other qualifications, including overseas awards and alternative English language qualifications, you are advised to contact Admissions to discuss the suitability of your award for entry onto the course