School of Biological and Marine Sciences

MSc Sustainable Food Production

Planned new course

Programme code 7953
Duration

1 year
Course type

Full-time, Part-time route available
Study location Plymouth
Register for open evening
Apply now

Feeding a growing global population while reducing carbon emissions and maintaining biodiversity is one of the major challenges of our time. Our programme is designed to encourage holistic engagement with innovative sustainable solutions to food production across the terrestrial and aquatic environment though consideration of technological advances and behavioural change.

  • @Subject to approval

Meet the lecturers

Register now and join our virtual drop-in sessions to speak with our postgraduate programme leaders.

Key features
  • The University is ranked top 15 in the UK and top 100 globally for Earth and Marine Sciences in the QS World University Rankings 2023.
  • Learn from leading experts in the field – the course is aligned with our new multi-million-pound Research England funded Centre of Research excellence in Intelligent and Sustainable Productive Systems (CRISPS) .
  • Benefit from teaching which is unique in its focus on a cross section of land and water-based food systems and covering plant and animal-based production.
  • Equip yourself for a career in 21st-century food production systems through the integration of skills training in data handling and technological developments.
  • Explore fundamental or applied problems in sustainable food production through a four-month independent research project.
  • Seize opportunities for practical, real-world experience through collaborative partnerships with food producers and other organisations.
  • Access graduate opportunities in the sustainable food industry, government organisations, NGOs, research and development, the advisory sector and sustainability bodies.

Course details

  • Year 1

  • BIO5133: Sustainable Agriculture
    The module will introduce the concepts and frameworks of environmental sustainability in agricultural systems. You will explore the impacts that agriculture has on the surrounding environment and a diversity of innovations used or proposed to increase sustainability and reduce environmental impacts of production on land. Throughout the module you will develop critical thinking, evaluation and communication skills.
    BIO5132: Sustainable Fisheries
    This module provides a framework for the analysis of resource utilisation and management of fisheries, aquatic resources and aquaculture. Students will study example systems appropriate to their programme of study to allow them to evaluate the extent to which resources are used sustainably.
    BIO5131: Postgraduate Research Skills & Methods
    The module provides the research- and communication-related skills that biology postgraduates require to carry out an original research project at the forefront of their academic discipline. Emphasis is given to the philosophy, design, ethics and management of research, effective communication to a range of audiences, and advice on career management and presentation skills involved in job applications and interviews.
    BIO5134: Advances in Plant Technology and Biotechnology
    This module, will explore groundbreaking innovations shaping the future of modern agriculture. This module is designed to provide participants with a deep understanding of cutting-edge practices and how technological advances are being integrated into plant production systems. By the end, you'll gain practical skills and knowledge to thrive in this dynamic and evolving field.
    BIO5135: Spatial Ecology of Animals in Managed Landscapes
    Understanding animal movement and spatial ecology is crucial for effective landscape management, animal management and conservation. This module introduces key sensor technologies and secondary data sources and develops skills in geospatial and statistical analysis. Students will apply these tools to real-world challenges, such as mitigating human-wildlife conflict and informing sustainable land-use practices.
    GEES506: Climate Change: Science and policy
    This module explores the science and policy of climatic change, including lessons from the past and the relevance of past climates to the global warming debate. We question climate change detection and attribution, feedbacks and uncertainty in climate change. We explore political actions through international political agreements and national policies and adaptation strategies and management of change in the UK.
    BIO505: Research project
    A 60-credit capstone module that enables students to design, conduct, and report an original piece of research aligned with the MSc programme. Working closely with an academic advisor, students develop a research hypothesis, implement experimental, field-based or desk-based investigations, and apply appropriate analytical techniques. The module fosters independent thinking, problem-solving, and scientific communication, culminating in the submission of a professional-quality dissertation. Assessment is based on both the written dissertation and practical conduct of the research.

Entry requirements
A 2:1 honours degree or equivalent, preferably in a biology, environmental science, zoology, marine biology or agriculture related subject*.
*Students with a 2:2 honours degree or equivalent and other relevant degrees will also be considered on a case by case basis.
If you don’t have any recent formal qualifications, we may accept workplace experience.
If English is not the first language, then evidence of English proficiency is required. The minimum IELTS score for acceptable English proficiency for entry is normally 6.5 (with a minimum of 5.5 in each element).

Fees, costs and funding
2024-2025 2025-2026
Home N/A £11,350
International N/A £20,400
Part time (Home) N/A £630
Full time fees shown are per annum. Part time fees shown are per 10 credits. Please note that fees are reviewed on an annual basis. Fees and the conditions that apply to them shown in the prospectus are correct at the time of going to print. Fees shown on the web are the most up to date but are still subject to change in exceptional circumstances. More information about fees and funding.

Scholarships for international students

We fund our international scholars to reach their goals.
Complete our short enquiry form and we will send you more information on the scholarships that may be available to you.

How to apply

Apply online

When to apply

Most of our taught programmes begin in September. Applications can usually be made throughout the year, and are considered until programmes are full.

Before you apply

Familiarise yourself with the information required to complete your application form. You will usually be required to supply:
  • evidence of qualifications (degree certificates or transcripts), with translations if not in English, to show that you meet, or expect to meet the entry requirements
  • evidence of English language proficiency, if English is not your first language
  • a personal statement of approximately 250-400 words about the reasons for your interest in the course and outlining the nature of previous and current related experience. You can write this into the online application form, or include it as a separate document
  • your curriculum vitae or résumé, including details of relevant professional/voluntary experience, professional registration/s and visa status for overseas workers
  • proof of sponsorship, if applicable.
If you require further information take a look at our application guidance.

Disability Inclusion Services

If you have an impairment, health condition or disability, learn about the additional support the University provides .

International students

Support is also available to overseas students applying to the University from our International Office. Take a look at our how to apply information or email admissions@plymouth.ac.uk.

Submitting an application

Once you are happy that you have all of the information required you can apply using our online postgraduate application form (the blue 'Apply' icon on this page).

What happens after I apply?

You will normally receive a decision on your application within four weeks of us receiving your application. You may be asked to provide additional information; two academic/professional references, confirming your suitability for the course; or to take part in an interview (which in the case of overseas students may be by telephone or video conference) and you will be sent a decision by letter or email.
We aim to make the application procedure as simple and efficient as possible. Our Admissions and Course Enquiries team is on hand to offer help and can put you in touch with the appropriate faculty if you wish to discuss any programme in detail.
If you would like any further information please contact the Admissions and Course Enquiries team:
Telephone: +44 1752 585858
Email: admissions@plymouth.ac.uk

Admissions policy

More information and advice for applicants can be referenced in our admissions policy which can be found on the student regulations, policies and procedures page. Prospective students are advised to read the policy before making an application to the University.
Enquiry form

Complete our short enquiry form and we will send you more information on the scholarships that may be available to you.

Our experts

Meet our school technical staff

Our technical staff are integral to the delivery of all our programmes and bring a diverse range of expertise and skills to support students in laboratories, workshops, and the field.

Research

Centre of Research excellence in Intelligent and Sustainable Productive Systems (CRISPS) logo (hero size)
Centre of Research excellence in Intelligent and Sustainable Productive Systems (CRISPS)
Tractor mowing field by the sea
Sustainable Food Production Research Group
Earth Smart logo
Earth Smart