SRUC
Scotland’s Rural College (SRUC) prides itself on developing its students and staff to lead the way Through postgraduate study, students deepen their knowledge in their chosen area, giving them a distinct advantage over their industry peers .
It is our mission to create and mobilise knowledge and talent, to partner locally and globally to benefit Scotland’s natural economy.
Education, research, and consultancy (through SAC Consulting) at SRUC grows the natural economy A natural economy fuelled by responsible use of the world’s natural resources: people, land, energy, water, animals and plants
By working in partnership, we focus on solving the “wicked challenges” facing the planet, including climate change, biodiversity and access to nutritious food and clean water
PATHWAYS TO STUDY
Working or managing a busy family life while learning can be a careful balancing act At SRUC we understand that not everyone lives close to our campuses or can attend class at specific times of day. No matter, we’ll give you all the freedom you need to get where you want to be
Most of SRUC’s Postgraduate programmes are delivered part-time via Online Distance Learning Online classes and assessments allow you to continue to work wherever you are without having to move house or commute The parttime structure breaks the Masters down into three distinct years which all have a qualification at the end.
Students who successfully complete Year 1 are awarded a Postgraduate Certificate (PGCert), those who progress and successfully complete Year 2 receive a Postgraduate Diploma (PGDip), and the full Masters (MSc) is awarded after Year 3
SRUC also offers a number of taught Postgraduate courses which you can study full-time, and Master of Research (MRes) programmes where you are supervised to undertake a research project in order to complete your Masters qualification.
POSTGRADUATE SUBJECT AREAS
APPLIED ANIMAL BEHAVIOUR AND ANIMAL WELFARE
This course aims to enhance your knowledge and understanding of the scientific study of animal behaviour and animal welfare that can be applied effectively in science and practice .
This on-campus programme is delivered in conjunction with the Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, which has an impressive international reputation in animal welfare This creates a solid platform for education and will give you a variety of research opportunities
At the end of the course, you’ll be able to understand the application of scientific principles to the study of animal behaviour and welfare and utilise effective, modern methods for
describing and analysing scientific data You’ll know how to assess the welfare of animals in captivity and in the natural environment, offer advice on applied animal behaviour and animal welfare issues and understand philosophical debate relating to the use of animals by humans
This MSc is a collaboration between Scotland’s Rural College (SRUC) and the University of Edinburgh
EXAMPLE MODULES:
Biology of Animal Welfare
Animal Cognition and Consciousness
Animal Welfare Applications
Scientific Methodology
STUDY MODE
On-Campus
PROGRAMME STRUCTURE
1 Year – MSc (Full Time)
2/3 Years- MSc (Part Time)
Vincent Bombail
Programme Director - MSc Applied Animal Behaviour and Animal Welfare
Do you wonder how animals feel and whether they live a good life?
Our course is about learning the science underpinning the response to that question, whilst discussing philosophical or ethical implications, in a changing world For over 30 years, this course has trained animal welfare scientists who have gone on to succeed in academia, charities, and many other public and private organisations . Some of the finest animal welfare scientists and stakeholders will share their extensive expertise, in a year which will challenge your views and stimulate your curiosity
MODULE EXAMPLES:
Foundations in Ecological Economics
Applications in Ecological Economics
Ecological Economics
Field Methods in Research and Practice
Environmental Valuation
STUDY MODE
On-Campus
PROGRAMME STRUCTURE
1 Year – MSc (Full Time)
2/3 Years- MSc (Part Time)
Bryony NelsonMSc Ecological Economics
The broad range of nationalities, backgrounds, and interests of course mates has led to some enlightening learning experiences It’s the best teaching I’ve had . Also, the field trip to northwest Spain, was a fantastic experience
ECOLOGICAL ECONOMICS
MSc
This interdisciplinary programme focuses on how economics can be understood and practiced differently in order to bring about more socially just and ecologically sustainable systems in the face of complex, real-world sustainability problems .
The interdisciplinary nature of the programme links environmental, social and economic systems together and focuses on the mutual dependences between them The programme attracts students from a wide range of backgrounds across the natural and social sciences as well as the humanities
On the programme, you will participate in sustainability problem-solving with an emphasis on application, practical experience and ‘hands-on’ learning, as well as experience training in a wide range of quantitative and qualitative methodologies and the associated data analysis using real-world case studies The MSc involves two semesters of compulsory and optional taught courses followed by a period of individual dissertation project work . Upon successful
completion of the programme, you will be awarded your degree by the University of Edinburgh .
Designed to have a real-world focus, the programme addresses complex issues and ensures practical application of your knowledge as well as the opportunity to experience Ecological Economics first hand. The aim of the programme is to give you a chance to experience what it is like to become an Ecological Economist A major part of that practical application is delivered through a study trip, usually to Spain
This MSc is a collaboration between Scotland’s Rural College (SRUC) and the University of Edinburgh .
ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AND MANAGEMENT
This programme will give you an in-depth understanding of natural resource management based on a scientific understanding of key issues, but also linked across different disciplines .
We will equip you with advanced skills and knowledge about the processes that give rise to environmental degradation and the strategies to affect sustainable change, develop a scientific understanding of some of the major processes influencing the quality of land, air and water resources, and learn about the most effective methods of environmental protection
It will help you develop expertise in the design and implementation of programmes of environmental protection, and give you the opportunity to study the integrated
protection and management of particular systems or resources Upon successful completion of the programme, you will be awarded your degree by the University of Edinburgh
There is also a week-long fieldtrip in the Spring, which is an integral part of the programme. Recent past fieldtrips have gone to France and Morocco
This MSc is a collaboration between Scotland’s Rural College (SRUC) and the University of Edinburgh
MODULE EXAMPLES:
Interdisciplinary Approaches to the Environment
Land Use/Environmental Interactions
Environmental Survey and Monitoring
Professional and Research
Skills in Practice
STUDY MODE
On-Campus
PROGRAMME STRUCTURE
1 Year – MSc (Full Time) 2/3 Years- MSc (Part Time)
Meredith Wicks
MSc Environmental Protection and Management
The people are what make this programme special Not only are the programme leaders committed to developing a strong and comprehensive programme but also one that equips students with the knowledge and skills necessary to step out into the job market and take on a role that supports positive sustainable change
Frameworks to Assess Food Security
Interrelationships in Food Systems
Sustainability of Food Production
Data Collection and Analysis for Food Security
STUDY MODE
On-Campus
PROGRAMME STRUCTURE
FOOD SECURITY MODULE EXAMPLES:
1 Year – MSc (Full Time)
2/3 Years- MSc (Part Time)
Jean Claude Nsengiyumva
MSc Food Security
The main highlight was our field trip to Peru where we visited different individuals/institutions that play an important role in food system of the country Hearing stories of different initiatives ranging from biodiversity protection, permaculture, renewable energy, agro-ecological extension services, were a great package of experience that provided me with much confidence.
This unique MSc has the scope and multidisciplinary approach to address the multiple issues surrounding food security, as well as offering an understanding of the technical, agronomic, environmental, economic, and socio-political factors that influence it.
Theoretical studies are given a practical backdrop through day visits to farms, food banks, or food factories around Scotland, as well as a study tour, which gives the opportunity to apply some of the principles to real-world scenarios This study tour has previously visited places such as Italy, Malaysia, Kenya, and Peru The purpose of the study tour is to see, in person, how the food system works in different countries and to identify how stakeholders and international institutions engage with the food security challenges explained in the classroom .
This MSc is a collaboration between Scotland’s Rural College (SRUC) and the University of Edinburgh MSc
You will also learn about the link between poverty and food insecurity, supply chain market power, the role of genetics in addressing sustainable food production, the importance of orphan crops and the increasing pressures on resources such as water and soil, among other topics, and how food security has become a critically important issue for societies around the globe
SOILS AND SUSTAINABILITY
In undertaking this MSc you will gain knowledge of the fundamentals of soil science providing comprehensive understanding of soil systems and sustainable soil management. The programme delivers both field and laboratory experience enhancing your soil survey skills and ability to evaluate management practices You will be equipped to address global issues such as food security, climate change and environmental sustainability in this interdisciplinary programme
The MSc involves two semesters of compulsory and optional taught courses followed by a period of individual dissertation project work It also includes a unique overseas residential field trip where you will have the opportunity to conduct primary data collection for soil stability and soil health, as well as wider environmental monitoring skills . Upon successful completion of the programme, you will be awarded your degree by the University of Edinburgh During your dissertation project, you will be encouraged to engage and collaborate with a wide network such as government bodies, conservation organisations and consultants This will provide
you with opportunities to expand your network for employment opportunities or research projects and help enhance your knowledge and skillset with valuable real-world experience
This course will suit someone who wants to explore the benefits of soils in relation to food security, climate change, biodiversity, human health and well-being and wants to expand their knowledge and awareness of global soil issues and solutions
This MSc is a collaboration between Scotland’s Rural College (SRUC) and the University of Edinburgh
MODULE EXAMPLES:
Soil Protection and Management
Soils Science Concepts and Application
Ecological Processes in Soil
Professional and Research Skills in Practice
On-Campus
PROGRAMME STRUCTURE STUDY MODE
1 Year – MSc (Full Time) 2/3 Years- MSc (Part Time)
Jane Elliott
MSc Soils and Sustainability
I appreciate that SRUC is a small community and there always seems to be a friendly face nearby Despite the small community, I have found the expertise within SRUC to be expansive I have been able to curate my courses and research into the topics that I am most interested in pursuing, which has been a wonderful privilege I have also totally fallen in love with Scotland, which is a nice bonus
MODULE EXAMPLES:
Current topics in animal nutrition
Digestive anatomy and physiology
Feed composition and evaluation
Nutrition biochemistry and metabolism
Research methods for animal sciences
PROGRAMME STRUCTURE STUDY MODE
Online Distance Learning
ANIMAL NUTRITION
Year 1 - PgCert
Year 2 - PgDip
Year 3 - MSc
Hannah Slaney MSc Animal NutritionI really enjoyed the group sessions online, distance studying can be a little lonely when you don’t speak to people from your cohort regularly These sessions meant we were able to speak to other people on the course, and share our thoughts and ideas, and made you feel more included .
MSc / PgDip / PgCert / CPD
The design and delivery of this part-time, distance learning programme makes this particularly attractive if you’re working but want to improve your knowledge and skills in animal nutrition . It’s also useful for anyone who might like to study for a PhD later .
Addressing a critical gap for those aspiring to work on the nutrition of animals
Farmed livestock, horses, pets, exotics, and zoo animals, this programme enhances conceptual, analytical and presentation skills and teaches modern and effective ways to describe and analyse scientific, research and dietary ration data, which informs decisions on managing, designing, and evaluating diets in the context of the interaction between diet, production, health and disease
This qualification is the first masters level animal nutrition programme in the world to be
delivered entirely part-time and online in an interactive online learning environment and is structured to allow sequential progression via Continuing Professional Development, PG Certificate, PG Diploma and MSc phases It is also possible to undertake the PgCert or PgDip as exit or entry qualifications into other programmes .
The course is delivered by University of Glasgow and SRUC Senior Academics and Nutritionists with international reputations in animal nutrition, clinical nutrition and the feed industry sectors .
APPLIED POULTRY SCIENCE
MSc / PgDip / PgCert
This programme offers a unique, research-led opportunity to study the different aspects of applied poultry science and aims to equip current and future professionals with skills, knowledge and understanding to address local and global challenges in sustainable poultry production
This MSc aims to support anyone looking for the skills and knowledge required to meet the needs of the worldwide poultry industry
The online distance learning programme is aimed at students with relevant agricultural and animal-related backgrounds who are keen to acquire indepth knowledge in applied poultry science This course will help you demonstrate a critical understanding of the principal theories, principles and concepts of Applied Poultry Science (APS)
You’ll use a significant range of techniques and practices associated with APS, as well as a range of appropriate methods to communicate with audiences with different levels of knowledge/ expertise
This MSc is a collaboration between Scotland’s Rural College (SRUC) and the University of Edinburgh .
EXAMPLE MODULES:
Poultry Housing and Environment
Poultry Anatomy and Health
Poultry Feed, Nutrition and Digestion
Poultry Behaviour and Welfare in Commercial Systems
STUDY MODE
Online Distance Learning
PROGRAMME STRUCTURE
Year 1-2 - PgCert
Year 2-4 - PgDip
Year 3-6 - MSc
MSc Poultry Science
I chose SRUC because of the online learning, with great course content The option to select modules per year and therefore vary the length of the course was also attractive as I was also working full time during studying. Great mentoring during Dissertation year as well, both from my supervisor and the stats guru
EXAMPLE MODULES:
Food Supply Chain and Food Safety
Data Analysis for Food Safety
Food Safety Hazards and Food Safety Management Systems
Food Production Systems
STUDY MODE
Online Distance Learning
PROGRAMME STRUCTURE
Year 1-2 - PgCert
Year 2-4 - PgDip
Year 3-6 - MSc
Sunita Jugjali
MSc Food Safety
After completing this course, I can confidently say that I have gained knowledge of the meat industry, which also helps open the option of pursuing a career in this field. I really like the design and structure of the course and the lecturers are also very helpful and supportive, making it feel like there is always someone available to help whenever you have a problem I am very happy with my decision to study here and would highly recommend it to anyone interested in food safety
FOOD SAFETY
MSc / PgDip / PgCert
This online MSc is designed to provide a holistic view of food safety practices applicable across the human food supply chain . Incorporating pre and post-harvest stages of food production, it examines crop safety, animal welfare and the economics of the supply chain
This course delivers critical identification, evaluation and assessment of the main theories, principles and concepts related to sources and pathways of foodborne hazards along the food chain It also studies the formulation of bespoke intervention strategies to mitigate public health risks
The programme would be suitable for those who have an undergraduate degree in agricultural sciences, biological science, food systems, veterinary medicine and human medicine It’s also suitable for professionals from agriculture, food or rural industries, as well as government officials, international organisations, researchers in food safety and the third sector
While completing this programme, students will benefit from the knowledge and experience of a world-leading teaching team, as well as valuable contribution of colleagues from the Roslin Institute and the
Global Academy of Agriculture and Food Systems
This programme will equip you with the fundamental knowledge and expertise to be able to influence and promote food safety at different levels of your organisation It will provide you with the underpinning knowledge to advance your career or prepare for new careers in food safety whether in governmental agencies, industry or research
This MSc is delivered by SRUC and the University of Edinburgh’s Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies
INTERNATIONAL ANIMAL WELFARE, ETHICS
AND LAW
MSc /
PgDip
/ PgCert
The overall objective of this online distance learning programme is to give you knowledge and understanding of animal welfare science and the ethical and legal factors that affect this, with a focus on international issues arising from animal use in all its forms .
Delivered by researchers and teachers from SRUC and the Jeanne Marchig International Centre for Animal Welfare Education within the Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, the course also features a series of guest lecturers from around the world
The programme is designed to provide you with an enhanced knowledge and understanding of animal welfare, ethics and law in order to address welfare concerns from a global perspective, as well as an awareness of the importance of the application of science-
based evidence for advancing animal welfare in veterinary practice, animal research, animal management and care, animal production, welfare inspection, and the preparation of animalbased legislation .
This MSc is delivered by SRUC and the University of Edinburgh’s Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies
EXAMPLE MODULES:
Production Animal Welfare
International Cat and Dog Welfare
Captive and Free-ranging Wild Animal Welfare
Welfare of Animals Used for Scientific Purposes
STUDY MODE
Online Distance Learning
PROGRAMME STRUCTURE
Year 1-2 - PgCert
Year 2-4 - PgDip
Year 3-6 - MSc
Dr Laura Dixon
Programme Director – MSc International Animal Welfare, Ethics and Law
The MSc International Animal Welfare, Ethics and Law programme is a challenging and rewarding experience for our students Lectures are delivered by international experts and our diverse student community also provides a unique learning opportunity Students who engage in the courses and discussions can make valuable connections and often go on to make real-world impacts on animal welfare
EXAMPLE MODULES:
Principles and Policy for Sustainable Agriculture
Soils in Sustainable Systems
Livestock in Sustainable Systems
Sustainable Entrepreneurship
STUDY MODE
Online Distance Learning
Year 1-2 - PgCert
Year 2-4 - PgDip
Year 3-6 - MSc
Dr Lou Ralph
Senior Lecturer and Co-Programme
Leader MSc Sustainability in Agriculture and Business PROGRAMME STRUCTURE
From my early career, I was involved in Organic Farming research and I am particularly interested in land use and the environment
Subsequently, I have switched to teaching and have been involved with the Online Distance Learning provision at SRUC since 2006 I am now delighted to co-lead this exciting new programme with Dr Robin Walker
SUSTAINABILITY IN AGRICULTURE AND BUSINESS
MSc / PgDip / PgCert
The Sustainability in Agriculture and Business programme will provide you with opportunities to develop both production relevant skills in soil, crop and livestock management, and business, communication, and entrepreneurship skills . You will be immersed in real world applications that will be relevant to future employment . The programme explores the need for sustainable management of land and water resources, supporting biodiversity and working to address societal challenges .
Studied over three academic years, the MSc comprises eight taught modules plus an in-depth independent research project which enables you to pursue your own interests and develop skills of specific relevance to current and future careers The part time online distance learning delivery format offers flexible progression routes from PGCert to PGDip and MSc and will suit someone who is interested in gaining technical and professional knowledge relevant to sustainable
agricultural systems and businesses, and in developing the skills to utilise this knowledge to adapt to changing environments, solve problems and propose solutions to contemporary and potential future issues faced by agriculture Online learning is supplemented by two study weekends at our Aberdeen campus
The MSc/PgDip/PgCert is validated by the University of Glasgow.
WILDLIFE AND CONSERVATION MANAGEMENT
MSc / PgDip / PgCert
Human activities are spreading across the environment . Changes in land use are driven by agriculture, forestry, and urban development . There are also increasing concerns associated with our reliance on the wider environment for recreation, tourism, renewable energy, and ecosystem services . This is particularly relevant in the face of the “wicked problems” of global climate change and biodiversity loss
As a student studying SRUC’s Wildlife and Conservation Management programme, you’ll explore these challenges from multiple perspectives You’ll gain specialised subject knowledge, as well as relevant technical and practical skills There will be opportunities to engage with professionals working in the conservation sector
This course will suit someone who is interested in making a difference to wildlife conservation and
management It will appeal to those developing their existing skills as current practitioners, to those looking for a higher-level applied course beyond their first degree, and to those seeking to careerchange into the sector
Online learning is supplemented by optional study weekends at a range of locations in Scotland .
This MSc/PgDip/PgCert is validated by the University of Glasgow.
EXAMPLE MODULES:
Ecological Surveying and Assessment
Conservation Management Planning
Farming, Forestry and the Environment
Managing the Outdoors for People and the Natural Environment
STUDY MODE
Online Distance Learning
PROGRAMME STRUCTURE
Year 1 - PgCert
Year 2 - PgDip
Year 3 - MSc
With a wide-ranging interest in Wildlife and Conservation, Dr Nick Littlewood conducts research into how management affects species and habitats, with a particular focus on upland environments Nick is the Programme Leader for this course, which is delivered along with colleagues from SRUC’s North Faculty Together, they contribute expertise in terrestrial, coastal and marine ecosystems and in understanding how human activities influence the management of our natural environment
EXAMPLE MODULES:
Zoonoses and Comparative Infectious Disease Biology
Epidemiological analysis, modelling and data handling
Principles of Epidemiology and Health Management
Epidemiology Projects
STUDY MODE
Research-focused Distance Learning
PROGRAMME STRUCTURE
Semester 1: 3 Core Modules
Semesters 2 &3: Epidemiology Projects 1 & 2
Stefanie Mitze
MRes Zoonoses and Epidemiology of Animal Infectious Diseases
It was always a dream of mine to start a research career as well and this course gave me all necessary tools to have a wonderful start in a postgraduate research career I am about to present my results of one project done during this course on an international congress and even submitted a publication
ZOONOSES AND EPIDEMIOLOGY OF ANIMAL INFECTIOUS DISEASES
MRes
This Master of Research (MRes) course focuses on developing research in epidemiology of animal diseases and the transmission of zoonoses . The course is delivered through a global and Planetary Health context, illustrating the role of epidemiological sciences in addressing real world problems .
The course is designed for students to be able to develop their own skills and expertise, providing an opportunity to undertake two unique independent research projects You will be supervised by internationally renowned experts in their field and immersed into a research team, making a real contribution to the advancement of knowledge in zoonotic diseases, infectious disease epidemiology and control
The course is split across three semesters with the first focusing on the development of knowledge and skills essential to undertake
bespoke research projects In semesters 2 and 3 you will have the opportunity to undertake research projects in your own areas of interest . It can be studied full time over the course of 1 year or part time over 2-3 years
Occasional immersive study sessions at either SRUC’s Aberdeen or Inverness campuses will be offered, and you can also access the campus laboratories and facilities for your research project work
AGRICULTURE, RURAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL STUDIES
This doctoral programme is designed for future leaders in agriculture, animal, rural and environmental science This interdisciplinary programme is rooted in our internationally recognised research, offering opportunities to contribute to critical global challenges such as food and nutrition security, one health, climate change and efficient resource usage.
On successful completion of this programme students will be able to:
Conceptualise, design and implement a project for the generation of new knowledge, application or understanding at the forefront of the discipline, adjusting the project design in light of emergent issues and understandings
Contextualise, evaluate and apply the literature, theories, concepts, principles and practices within their field of research.
Integrate a significant range of professional skills, techniques and practices for research and advanced academic enquiry within their field.
THE SRUC PHD
Our distinctiveness lies in a challenge-focused approach that spans disciplines, domains, and campuses across Scotland. Candidates will participate in a nurturing and innovative training environment that encourages exploration and pushes boundaries. The programme is intricately linked to SRUC’s commitment to servicing the Natural Economy. Our ethos of knowledge exchange and multidisciplinary research reflects our dedication to addressing global challenges through innovative methods.
We have a wide range of research facilities and capabilities including experimental facilities for all major livestock and crop production scenarios, infrastructure for data intensive projects and a selection of laboratory and veterinary facilities. We also work collaboratively to enable a broader range of interdisciplinary and practicebased research across the fields of agricultural and environmental sciences.
TRAINING PLAN
Year 1: Getting Started in Research Year 2: Growing Researcher Skills Year 3: Researcher Development
Create and interpret new knowledge, understanding and practices through original research or other advanced scholarship .
Apply an integrated approach to evaluation and synthesis in making independent judgements on new and complex ideas, information and issues in their field.
Present and justify research findings at the appropriate level to a range of audiences, adapting communication to context and purpose, including at the standard of publishable academic work
Embody the professional qualities of an academic researcher, being reflective, self-critical and evidencebased, including with respect to professional and personal aspirations PhD
Michelle Reeves PhD studentSRUC’s practical and hands-on approach to livestock studies attracted me, as well as the high calibre lecturers I won a prize for my research into sheep welfare, and I got to go to Norway and travel the country interviewing sheep farmers for three weeks . I was given these opportunities thanks to SRUC’s involvement in large European research projects and their respected reputation within industry
RESEARCH
The world faces significant challenges, from food security to climate change At SRUC, we have a vital role in responding to these challenges and creating opportunities
Working with industry and policy makers, our staff and students design, develop and deliver real-world change to benefit the global natural economy.
Our Challenge Centres build on our outstanding research and commercial strengths and set us apart as a leading force in innovation to support our natural economy The focus of each of these Centres is to generate solutions and share research that delivers impact that brings about real-world change
Each are led by experts in their fields and have strong connections to our core research areas While the Centres are run independently of each other, they use an interdisciplinary and multidisciplinary approach to work together to solve large scale problems
SRUC conducts internationally respected, largely multiand inter-disciplinary research, seeking to address the major challenges of growing global demand for food and nutrition security, climate change and dwindling natural resources with emphasis on resource use efficiency.
Reflecting our ethos of knowledge exchange, we involve our students and our many stakeholders, customers and clients in the rural sector as we continue to grow and develop our research and impact portfolio The translation of our innovative research outputs, by close interaction with our SAC Consulting services helps rural industries through the delivery of up to the minute advice and consultancy to approximately 18,000 clients, in Scotland, the UK and beyond
Queen’s Anniversary Prize
SRUC has been awarded a prestigious Queen’s Anniversary Prize for Higher and Further Education This award recognises our contribution to animal welfare, veterinary science, education, research and the economy through our world-class Veterinary Services network
It also cements SRUC’s credentials in veterinary services as we prepare to open Scotland’s first new vet school in 150 years
It is the second time in six years SRUC has received a Queen’s Anniversary Prize, which is the highest form of national recognition open to educational institutions in the UK