Agricultural Scientist

You'll usually need qualifications relevant to agriculture like a higher national diploma, foundation degree or degree in:

• agriculture
• biology
• crop and plant science
• ecology
• environmental science

Some employers may also look for relevant postgraduate qualifications in subjects like:

• soil science
• genetics
• crop technology

With a degree or postgraduate qualification you can apply for a graduate training scheme with organisations, such as:

• independent consultancies
• companies selling agrochemicals, seed or fertiliser products
• land and farming charities
• government departments

Entry requirements

You'll usually need:

• 1 or 2 A levels, or equivalent, for a foundation degree or higher national diploma
• 2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree

More Information

• equivalent entry requirements
• student finance for fees and living costs
• university courses and entry requirements

You could get relevant skills and knowledge by taking a course like:

• Level 3 Extended Diploma in Agriculture
• T Level in Agriculture, Land Management and Production

Courses like these can help you move on to further training at university or an apprenticeship.

Entry requirements

You'll usually need:

• 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, for a level 3 course

More Information

• equivalent entry requirements
• funding advice
• guide to T Levels
• search for courses

You could apply to do an Agriculture Professional Adviser Level 6 Apprenticeship.

You might also specialise by doing a Soil Scientist Level 7 Apprenticeship.

These apprenticeships are equivalent to degree and postgraduate level, respectively, and can take between 2 and 3 years to complete.

Entry requirements

Employers will set their own entry requirements.

More Information

• guide to apprenticeships

You could study for the BASIS Foundation Award in Agronomy if you're new to the industry and have limited crop experience and knowledge. This will give you an introduction to agronomy, crop protection and crop nutrition.

Career tips

You'll have an advantage when applying for jobs or training, if you have some experience of farm work. Agricultural colleges, universities and local farms may be able to help with this.

Professional and industry bodies

For professional recognition and training opportunities you could join the Association of Independent Crop Consultants or BASIS.

Further information

You can find out more about a career as an agronomist from:

• Tasty Careers
• The Institute of Agriculture and Horticulture
• BASIS