Qualification - ADVANCED DIPLOMA IN AGRICULTURE - ALTERNATIVE AGRICULTURE (VAG005)

Develop an ability to deal with change by alternative approaches to agriculture

Agriculture today is a highly competitive, global market. Many traditional forms of agriculture are sometimes difficult to operate competitively particularly within developed countries, but even in the most competitive economies, some agricultural enterprises still remain not only viable, but highly profitable. Success may be gained by value adding, or perhaps by filling a market niche not able to be readily filled by international or mass market competition. This is a very solid  training program for people wishing to work in alternative areas of agriculture at a technician or management level; in positions such as a farm manager, technical representatives, trainers or consultants.

 

The looming food crisis has been created by energy-consuming, broad-acre systems that rely heavily on chemical inputs. These systems need to be urgently dismantled and replaced by healthy, environmentally sustainable, alternative farming systems.

  • Learn about permaculture and sustainable farming systems.
  • Study soils, plant culture, animal physiology and health.
  • Learn about environmentally friendly approaches to protecting plants and maintaining their health.
  • Study organic plant culture.

An extensive course covering a wide range of subject areas from production and management to marketing. Choose from a selection of Elective Modules to tailor the course to refine and develop your knowledge and skills to meet your needs and career goals.

COURSE STRUCTURE AND CONTENTS

1. There are 20 standard MODULES (i.e. subjects) to be studied, all available by correspondence study.

CORE MODULES (12)

Animal Husbandry I, Organic Plant Culture, Engineering I, Irrigation, Soil Management, Plant Science I, Farm Management, Agricultural Marketing, Biochemistry, Business Studies, Instructional Skills, Workplace Health & Safety.

ELECTIVE MODULES (8)

Eight additional modules are chosen from: Animal Husbandry II, Animal Husbandry III, Animal Breeding, Plant Protection, Horse Care I, II & III, Aquaculture, Poultry, Pigs, Permaculture Systems, Advanced Permaculture, Sheep, Dairy Cattle, Beef Cattle, Pasture Management, Fruit Production, Cut Flower Production (Other options will be offered next year).
Outlines of modules listed above are found elsewhere on this site or throughout our handbook.

2. WORKSHOPS

Two PBL (Problem Based Learning) modules that develop practical skills, related to real life industry needs.

  • Workshop I,
  • Workshop II.

 

3. Industry CONFERENCES or SEMINARS

You are required to attend conferences, seminars, etc. totalling 100 hrs.

4. RESEARCH PROJECTS

Two Research Project modules. Each involves a component that teaches you about research theory & skills; followed by a mini project to practice what was covered in the first part of the course.

  • Research Project I,
  • Research Project II.

 

Duration: 2,500 hours

 

STUDY SEQUENCE

The 20 modules are divided into six stages. In stage 1, you study Biochemistry, Business Studies, Instructional Skills and Workplace Health & Safety. This stage is completed before workshops, research projects or other modules. Remaining core modules are then completed before commencing electives.

Enrolment Fee does not include exam fees (x 20) and workshop fees.

Note: Fees cover all tuition and "essential" texts. This does not include fees for any Industry conferences or seminars or workshops which are attended.

 

Do not underestimate the significance of the need for alternative agricultural practices

Alternative methods of farming are increasingly important.

  • Knowing more about organics, sustainability, being ecologically friendly is essential for anyone in the agriculture industry.
  • This course will provide you with detailed knowledge of alternative agriculture.
  • The elective modules enable you to choose modules that fit specifically with you and your requirements.
  • Learn about alternative approaches to agriculture - develop your understanding of agriculture, gain knowledge and new skills under the expert guidance of our specialist Agriculture and Environmental tutors.
  • Improve your job and career prospects. Move into management.

Taking this course shows the discipline and determination you need to gain essential knowledge to improve your knowledge and skills.

 

 

WOULD YOU LIKE TO LEARN MORE?

ENROL TODAY!


Just go to the top of this page for pricing and enrolment options. If you have any questions you can contact us now, by:
Phone (UK) 01384 44272, (International) +44 (0) 1384 442752, or

Email us at [email protected]