Course Structure

Introduction

The degree has been developed in consultation with employers, industry professionals, and academics to offer students a curriculum that integrates modern agricultural sciences. The course combines formal education with hands-on experience, incorporating emerging fields such as big data and artificial intelligence to enhance employability and graduate-level skills.
Students will complete a minimum 12-week work placement, during which they will undertake project-based work.

Stage 1

Core Modules

Agricultural systems sciences
Environmental management
Fundamentals of microbiology
Applied animal biology
Sustainable food systems
Environmental sciences

Stage 2

Core Modules

Comparative animal physiology
Plants, people, planet
Applied Ecology
Vertebrate biology
Foundations for research in the agrisciences
Introduction to Environmental Economics

Stage 3

Work Placement

Stage 4

Core Modules

Farm animal health and welfare
Business innovation and entrepreneurship
Advances in crop and animal science and technology
Global issues in agriculture
Research Project

Contact Teaching Hours

Large Group Teaching

20 (hours maximum)
15-20 Hours Lectures Laboratory practicals Tutorials and workshops Fieldwork (depending on the module)

Learning and Teaching

-

Introduction

On the BSc in Agricultural Sciences programme, aim to deliver a high quality learning environment by providing a range of learning experiences.

Assessment

Details of assessments associated with this course are outlined below:

• The way in which you are assessed will vary according to the Learning objectives of each module. Some modules are assessed solely through project work or written assignments. Others are assessed through a combination of coursework and end of semester examinations. Details of how each module is assessed are shown on the module specific virtual learning environment (VLE). The VLE is an online platform where students can access course materials, submit assignments, communicate with lecturers and peers, and track their academic progress.

Feedback

As students’ progress through their course at Queen’s they will receive general and specific feedback about their work from a variety of sources including the virtual learning environment (VLE), lecturers, module co-ordinators, placement supervisors, personal tutors, advisers of study and peers.

As students’ progress through their course at Queen’s they will receive general and specific feedback about their work from a variety of sources including the virtual learning environment (VLE), lecturers, module co-ordinators, placement supervisors, personal tutors, advisers of study and peers.

• Feedback may be provided in a variety of forms including:
  
  formal written comments, face-to-face comments, placement employer comments or references, online or emailed feedback, pre-submission advice, and feedback and outcomes from practical classes.

Modules

Entrance requirements

A-level

BBB including Biology and at least one from Chemistry, Geography, Mathematics or Physics + GCSE Mathematics grade C/4
OR
BBB including Double Award Applied Science or Double Award Life & Health Sciences + GCSE Biology grade C/4 or GCSE Double Award Science grades CC/4,4 + GCSE Mathematics grade C/4
OR
ABB including Biology + GCSE Mathematics grade C/4.

NB: It would be an advantage to have studied GCSE Chemistry or GCSE Double Award Science.

Irish Leaving Certificate

H3H3H3H3H4H4/H3H3H3H3H3 including Higher Level grade H3 in Biology and at least one from Chemistry, Geography, Mathematics or Physics + if not offered at Higher Level then Ordinary Level grade O4 in Mathematics
OR
H3H3H3H3H3H3/H2H3H3H3H3 including Higher Level grade H3 in Biology + if not offered at Higher Level then Ordinary Level grade O4 in Mathematics.

NB: It would be an advantage to have studied Leaving Certificate Chemistry.

Access Course

Successful completion of a relevant Science based Access Course (120 credits) with an average of 80% and no less than 70% in any module. A relevant Access Course will normally include a minimum of 40 credits at Level 3 in appropriate Biology modules (eg: two Biology modules or one Biology module and one Microbiology module) + GCSE Mathematics grade C/4 or equivalent in Access Course.
NB: It would be an advantage to have studied GCSE Chemistry or GCSE Double Award Science or Chemistry as part of Access Course.

International Baccalaureate Diploma

32 points overall including 6,5,5 at Higher Level including Biology and at least one from Chemistry, Geography, Mathematics or Physics + GCSE Mathematics grade C/4
OR
33 points overall including 6,5,5 at Higher Level including Biology + GCSE Mathematics grade C/4

If not offered at Higher Level/GCSE then Standard Level grade 4 in Mathematics would be accepted.
NB: It would be an advantage to have studied GCSE Chemistry or GCSE Double Award Science.

BTEC Level 3 Extended/National Extended Diploma

QCF Level 3 BTEC Extended Diploma (180 credits), with DDD + GCSE Biology grade C/4 or GCSE Double Award Science grades CC/4,4 + GCSE Mathematics grade C/4.

RQF Level 3 BTEC National Extended Diploma (1080 Guided Learning Hours (GLH)), with DDD + GCSE Biology grade C/4 or GCSE Double Award Science grades CC/4,4 + GCSE Mathematics grade C/4.

For the RQF Level 3 BTEC National Extended Diploma, applicants must have Distinction grades in four specified units to include:

Principles of Applied Science I
Principles of Applied Science II

and two from the following:

Biological Molecules & Metabolic Pathways
Genetics & Genetic Engineering
Diseases and Infections
Microbiology & Microbiological Techniques

Extended/National Extended Diploma must be relevant.

Graduate

A minimum of a 2:2 Honours Degree, provided any subject requirements are also met.

Note

All applicants must have GCSE English Language grade C/4 or an equivalent qualification acceptable to the University.

How we choose our students

In addition, to the entrance requirements above, it is essential that you read our guidance below on 'How we choose our students' prior to submitting your UCAS application.

Applications are dealt with centrally by the Admissions and Access Service rather than by the School of Biological Sciences. Once your on-line form has been processed by UCAS and forwarded to Queen's, an acknowledgement is normally sent within two weeks of its receipt at the University.

Selection is on the basis of the information provided on your UCAS form. Decisions are made on an ongoing basis and will be notified to you via UCAS. These decisions can only be made on the basis of the information given and applicants must show due care and diligence when completing their applications. In particular, full details must be included about qualifications completed or still to be completed.

For entry last year, applicants for programmes in the School of Biological Sciences must have had, or been able to achieve, a minimum of five GCSE passes at grade C/4 or better (to include English Language and Mathematics), though this profile may change from year to year depending on the demand for places. The Selector also checks that any specific entry requirements in terms of GCSE and/or A-level subjects can be fulfilled.

For applicants offering Irish Leaving Certificate, please note that performance at Junior Certificate is taken into account. For last year’s entry applicants for this degree must have had, a minimum of 5 IJC grades C/Merit, though this profile may change from year to year depending on the demand for places. The Selector also checks that any specific entry requirements in terms of Leaving Certificate subjects can be satisfied.

Offers are normally made on the basis of three A-levels. Two subjects at A-level plus two at AS would also be considered. The minimum acceptable is two subjects at A-level plus one at AS though candidates offering this combination will be considered on an individual basis depending on the degree for which they have applied. The offer for repeat candidates may be one grade higher than for first time applicants. Grades may be held from the previous year.

Applicants offering two A-levels and one BTEC Subsidiary Diploma/National Extended Certificate (or equivalent qualification), or one A-level and a BTEC Diploma/National Diploma (or equivalent qualification) will also be considered. Offers will be made in terms of the overall BTEC grade(s) awarded. Please note that a maximum of one BTEC Subsidiary Diploma/National Extended Certificate (or equivalent) will be counted as part of an applicant’s portfolio of qualifications. The normal GCSE profile will be expected and all subject requirements must be met.

A-level General Studies and A-level Critical Thinking would not normally be considered as part of a three A-level offer and, although they may be excluded where an applicant is taking four A-level subjects, the grade achieved could be taken into account if necessary in August/September.

Applicants offering other qualifications, such as relevant BTEC Higher National Certificates (HNC) and BTEC Higher National Diplomas (HND), will also be considered. A relevant HNC/HND is defined as a course with substantial relevant Biology and/or Chemistry content (eg HNC/HND Science (Applied Biology), HNC/HND Applied Biology, HNC/HND Applied Biological Sciences, etc). For those offering a HNC or HND, some flexibility may be allowed in terms of GCSE profile but all normal GCSE subject requirements must be satisfied.

Those offering a relevant HNC/HND are considered individually on their own merits for entry to Stage 1. The current requirement for HNC applicants is successful completion of the HNC with 1 Distinction and remainder Merits. For those completing a HND the normal target would be successful completion of HND with Merits in all units assessed in final year. Please note performance in the first year of the HND is taken into account when deciding whether or not to make an offer. HND applicants must have a minimum of one Merit and remainder Passes in first year..

The information provided in the personal statement section and the academic reference together with predicted grades are noted but, in the case of degree courses in the School of Biological Sciences, these are not the final deciding factors in whether or not a conditional offer can be made. However, they may be reconsidered in a tie break situation in August.

Applicants are not normally asked to attend for interview.

If you are made an offer then you may be invited to a Faculty/School Visit Day, which is usually held in the second semester. This will allow you the opportunity to visit the University and to find out more about the degree programme of your choice and the facilities on offer. It also gives you a flavour of the academic and social life at Queen's.

If you cannot find the information you need here, please contact the University Admissions and Access Service (admissions@qub.ac.uk), giving full details of your qualifications and educational background.

International Students

Our country/region pages include information on entry requirements, tuition fees, scholarships, student profiles, upcoming events and contacts for your country/region. Use the dropdown list below for specific information for your country/region.

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Career Prospects

Introduction

Studying a degree in Agricultural Sciences provides a wide range of graduate opportunities for students interested in the agricultural, agri-environmental and related industries.

The majority of our graduates will seek careers in the agricultural, agri-environment or agri-food sectors, in roles including; marketing/sales, production and management, technical advice, and research and development in commercial companies.

Employment after the Course

The degree has been developed in consultation with employers, industry and academics, to offer students a combined curriculum of formal education and practical experience, which is designed to enhance employability and graduate skills.

Employment Links

This programme was developed after extensive consultation with government bodies, major farming organisations, the food processing sector, farmers and conservation organisations, and the curriculum reflects these consultations. This close industry involvement has continued.

In addition, major employers such as Dunbia, Pilgrim's Europe and Thompsons have contributed competitive bursaries to support students on the programme. 

Placement Employers:

The work placement is compulsory and is assessed as an integral component of the degree programme, contributing 20 CAT points to the final degree classification. Students are supported in obtaining work placement through a series of workshops and by a dedicated School Work Placement and Careers Advisor.

We work repeatedly with a number of employers and students can also propose their own placement. 

Past students have gained work placement with organisations locally, nationally and internationally such as:

Moypark
John Thompson and Sons
Countryside Services
Dale Farm 
Fane Valley
Monaghan Mushrooms
Agri-Food and Biosciences Institute
Tamar Farming Co (New Zealand)
Millridge Ltd (New Zealand)

Each year several students are offered permanent jobs, on graduation, from their work placement providers.

Degree Plus/Future Ready Award for extra-curricular skills

In addition to your degree programme, at Queen's you can have the opportunity to gain wider life, academic and employability skills. For example, placements, voluntary work, clubs, societies, sports and lots more. So not only do you graduate with a degree recognised from a world leading university, you'll have practical national and international experience plus a wider exposure to life overall. We call this Degree Plus/Future Ready Award. It's what makes studying at Queen's University Belfast special.

Tuition Fees

Northern Ireland (NI) 1	£4,855
Republic of Ireland (ROI) 2	£4,855
England, Scotland or Wales (GB) 1	£9,535
EU Other 3	£26,600
International	£26,600

¹EU citizens in the EU Settlement Scheme, with settled status, will be charged the NI or GB tuition fee based on where they are ordinarily resident. Students who are ROI nationals resident in GB will be charged the GB fee.

² EU students who are ROI nationals resident in ROI are eligible for NI tuition fees.

³ EU Other students (excludes Republic of Ireland nationals living in GB, NI or ROI) are charged tuition fees in line with international fees.

Tuition fee rates are calculated based on a student’s tuition fee status and generally increase annually by inflation. How tuition fees are determined is set out in the Student Finance Framework.

Additional course costs

Year 1 students on the Agricultural Science pathway must buy a laboratory coat, boiler suit, waterproof coat and leggings, safety wellington boots and safety boots. 


Students undertake a placement in year 3 and are responsible for funding travel, accommodation and subsistence costs. These costs vary depending on the location and duration of the placement. Students may receive payment from their placement provider during their placement year.
https://www.qub.ac.uk/schools/SchoolofBiologicalSciences/Employability/StudentExperiences/

All Students

Depending on the programme of study, there may be extra costs which are not covered by tuition fees, which students will need to consider when planning their studies.

Students can borrow books and access online learning resources from any Queen's library. If students wish to purchase recommended texts, rather than borrow them from the University Library, prices per text can range from £30 to £100. Students should also budget between £30 to £75 per year for photocopying, memory sticks and printing charges.

Students undertaking a period of work placement or study abroad, as either a compulsory or optional part of their programme, should be aware that they will have to fund additional travel and living costs.

If a programme includes a major project or dissertation, there may be costs associated with transport, accommodation and/or materials. The amount will depend on the project chosen. There may also be additional costs for printing and binding.

Students may wish to consider purchasing an electronic device; costs will vary depending on the specification of the model chosen.

There are also additional charges for graduation ceremonies, examination resits and library fines.

Scholarships

Each year, we offer a range of scholarships and prizes for new students. Information on scholarships available.

How to Apply

Application for admission to full-time undergraduate and sandwich courses at the University should normally be made through the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS). Full information can be obtained from the UCAS website at: www.ucas.com/applying.

When to Apply

UCAS will start processing applications for entry in autumn 2026 from early September 2025.

The advisory closing date for the receipt of applications for entry in 2026 is Wednesday 14 January 2026 (18:00). This is the 'equal consideration' deadline for this course.

Applications from UK and EU (Republic of Ireland) students after this date are, in practice, considered by Queen’s for entry to this course throughout the remainder of the application cycle (30 June 2026) subject to the availability of places. If you apply for 2026 entry after this deadline, you will automatically be entered into Clearing.

Applications from International and EU (Other) students are normally considered by Queen's for entry to this course until 30 June 2026. If you apply for 2026 entry after this deadline, you will automatically be entered into Clearing.

Applicants are encouraged to apply as early as is consistent with having made a careful and considered choice of institutions and courses.

The Institution code name for Queen's is QBELF and the institution code is Q75.

Further information on applying to study at Queen's is available at: www.qub.ac.uk/Study/Undergraduate/How-to-apply/

Apply via UCAS 

Terms and Conditions

The terms and conditions that apply when you accept an offer of a place at the University on a taught programme of study. Queen's University Belfast Terms and Conditions.

Additional Information for International (non-EU) Students

1. Applying through UCAS
   Most students make their applications through UCAS (Universities and Colleges Admissions Service) for full-time undergraduate degree programmes at Queen's. The UCAS application deadline for international students is 30 June 2026.
2. Applying direct
   The Direct Entry Application form is to be used by international applicants who wish to apply directly, and only, to Queen's or who have been asked to provide information in advance of submitting a formal UCAS application. Find out more.
3. Applying through agents and partners
   The University’s in-country representatives can assist you to submit a UCAS application or a direct application. Please consult the Agent List to find an agent in your country who will help you with your application to Queen’s University.

Download Undergraduate Prospectus