The College of Agriculture, Food and Rural Enterprise is encouraging school leavers in Northern Ireland to explore study routes in agriculture, agri-food and agri-business as they consider their next step after receiving results this summer.
CAFRE said places are available through UCAS Clearing for higher education programmes, while direct applications are open for further education courses. The college says its provision is aimed at giving students the knowledge, skills and experience needed for careers in the agri-food sector.
The college delivers honours degree and foundation degree programmes in partnership with Ulster University. CAFRE said its degree courses are developed with employers and industry organisations so that academic study is linked with practical preparation for work.
According to CAFRE, 95% of its graduates secure employment or progress to further study within six months of completing their course. First-year degree students can also access more than 45 industry-sponsored bursaries, while specialist facilities include three farm centres used for experiential learning and applied skills development.
Higher education options cover areas including agriculture, agri-food, business, sustainability and environmental management. CAFRE said students combine academic study, practical learning and industry engagement, with opportunities to gain work experience alongside their courses.
The recently launched BSc honours degree in Sustainable Agri-Food Management is delivered at Loughry Campus and validated by Ulster University. The programme covers the agri-food chain from primary production to food manufacturing, quality assurance and business management.
CAFRE said GCSE school leavers can apply directly for full-time Level 3 and Level 2 agriculture programmes, which cover agricultural science, livestock and crop production, business management and practical farming skills while preparing students for employment or progression to higher education.