Examine the significant role of agriculture in international contexts with our MSc Agriculture and Development degree, designed for those pursuing careers in innovation and development, agricultural advisory services, or sustainable, climate-adapted agricultural research, including policy research.
Study at one of the UK’s leading universities for environmental and ethical performance (the University of Reading is ranked 4th in the People and Planet University League, 2025/26).
You will critically examine how agriculture – including horticulture – and agricultural research are addressing major challenges and driving opportunities in sustainable agricultural intensification and environmental resource management, particularly, but not exclusively, in the tropical and subtropical regions of the world.
Entry requirements
Normally a good undergraduate honours degree (high 2:2 or above), or equivalent from a university outside the UK. Applicants who have relevant career experience are also welcome to apply. Knowledge of agriculture or horticulture is desirable.
Students may join immediately after their undergraduate degree, or after some years of employment to enhance career prospects by acquiring further skills.
For a list of requirements by country, please visit our Country-Specific Information page .
Your personal statement
In your personal statement, you will need to demonstrate motivation to contribute towards solving global problems linked to agriculture or food production. Knowledge of agriculture or horticulture is desirable. You may reflect on paid or unpaid experience in the field to help support your personal statement.
Your statement needs to demonstrate that you understand what the course is about, your motivation for studying, and what you would like to get out of your studies.
Language requirements
Applicants may need to provide evidence of their ability to study in English (if required by UK Visa and Immigration). Our online list of English language tests and qualifications is routinely updated, so please check to see if you already have an acceptable qualification or test, and for the most recent changes to language requirements.
If you have any questions about your evidence of English language proficiency, please email pgadmissions@reading.ac.uk .
IELTS: 6.5 overall with no element less than 5.5 (or equivalent)
Pre-sessional English language Programme
Our Pre-sessional English Programme is for international students who need to meet their degree programme English language requirements.
Our courses equip you with the skills and language needed for academic success, including critical thinking, self-reflection, learner autonomy, research skills and integrating sources. The Pre-sessional English Programme is accredited by the British Association of Lecturers in English for Academic Purposes (BALEAP) , which guarantees you will receive a high-quality student experience.
To find out more, visit Pre-sessional English .