MCAST-BTEC Extended Diploma in Agriculture
Or
2 A-Level passes and 2 I-Level passes
Compulsory I-Level: Biology or Chemistry

Interview and Portfolio

This two-year course is designed to expand the knowledge and skills of students from an animal management point of view.

You will be given opportunities to develop higher-level skills in a land-based context, and how your role and your business fits within the overall structure of the land-based industries and the national and international economy.

The programme will be spread over two years and will include site visits, practical sessions and work placements, laboratory work as well as project management.

You will be expected to attend scheduled animal husbandry duties which form part of this course. This practical experience will back up the theoretical knowledge gained at the Institute.

The units will be delivered through a combination of classroom-based lectures, tutorials , site visits, practical placements , laboratory practicals , workshops and applied scientific activities . Hands on farming and visits to various soft areas will be part of the course prospectus.

An ongoing assessment is an integral part of the course. Assessment will include practical and theoretical work. Students will follow practical ongoing assessment, written assessment, projects as well as practical work experience at the institute and industry sites.

× Understand and apply principles of animal biology including those related to ecology, animal adaptations, animal breeding, nutrition and animal behavior
× Carry out practical work on specific animal farm sites and undertake specialised tasks related to animal husbandry
× Undertake practical tasks related to veterinary services including animal nursing and veterinary regulatory affairs
× Understand and plan land based policies to build on sustainable development principles and business development.

Business Environment
Animal Husbandry Management
Animal Health and Welfare
Animal Nutrition
Research Project
Biological Principles
Exotics and the Pet Trade
Plan and Manage Breeding Programmes for Animals
Environmental Management
Work Based Experience
Principles of Ecology
Animal Nursing
Animal Adaptations
Animal Behaviour
Sustainable Development
Aquatics and Fishkeeping

Farm Manager (entry level)
Assistant veterinary clinic manager
NGO administrator
Pet shop manager
Assistant veterinary pharmacist
Veterinary assistant