PgC / PgD / MSc Data Science for Global Agriculture, Food and Environment

There is a huge skills gap in the UK workforce when it comes to data science and artificial intelligence. The Government’s Digital Skills strategy estimates that within the next 20 years, 90 per cent of all jobs will require some element of digital skills, with data science pinpointed as a priority area. At the same time, the agriculture, food and environment sectors are experiencing a radical shift in demand for data scientists, thanks to applications in agri-tech, and smart farming and a large surge in demand for general skills using big data and open data across the sector through 2030. At the same time, there is a huge demand for data-driven solutions for best-practice solutions for conservation and environment issues that are compatible with the future of farming. This new course, the first and only of its kind in the UK, seeks to address these challenges. This course is ideal for candidates with a background in agriculture, food science, or in wildlife, conservation and environmental science, or for someone from a data science background that wishes to enter one of these subject areas. Our flexible programme consists of core training in data science tools and further specialised training, so that you can choose your own path: help agri-food companies make smarter business decisions, or use data to solve important conservation challenges. Block-based study Modules are delivered in one week (and in a select few modules two week) blocks on campus. You will know in advance which weeks require physical attendance as they’ll be scheduled on the timetable. In addition to this, you will be required to allocate time for self-study to complete the assignments associated with each of the modules. Some modules may also include research and/or exam elements, these are also highlighted on the timetable. Each module will be delivered by block delivery over a five-day period. All PgC modules will be delivered online only. Whilst away from Harper Adams, students will be supported via the VLE as indicated in the module descriptors and will have access to teaching staff via telephone and email. The curriculum is designed to meet the requirements of two types of potential students who wish to work as data scientists within the agriculture and food-related industries. The first group are individuals who have an undergraduate or technical background in some aspect of data science and are looking to obtain the necessary agriculture and food experience and the second group are individuals who have a background in agriculture and/or food and wish to undertake training in data science.

This course is ideal for students with a background in agriculture who are interested in pursuing a career in data science, or for students with a background in computing or maths interested in pursuing a career in data science in the agriculture and food industries. Candidates should possess one of the following: An honours degree in an appropriate agricultural, scientific or veterinary subject; A good UK based Higher National Diploma or Foundation Degree or equivalent in an appropriate agricultural or scientific subject together with related industrial or professional experience of at least two years; A Graduate Diploma, Graduate Certificate or equivalent. To apply for this course a degree indicating basic quantitative and mathematical skills is required and applicants are expected to demonstrate some ability and interest in this area. Whilst formal techniques are taught as part of the MSc course, some prior training and enthusiasm in these areas is expected.