This programme is designed to train individuals to teach Agricultural Science and related subjects at the secondary level to prepare students for internal and external examinations at all levels of the system. It also caters to persons who want to better their understanding of agricultural issues and develop analytical skills used to evaluate different agricultural problems and programmes.
The programme commenced in 2010 and is monitored through the Joint Board of
Teacher Education
Upon Completion of this programme student should:
- Demonstrate a high level of acquaintance with the current Agricultural position of Jamaica’s education system. .
- Appreciate the functions performed by and the importance and complexity of the Agricultural Education system.
- Integrate skills and competencies from the Agricultural Education Curriculum into a cohesive decision making system that includes operations/logistics and human resource management.
- Foster professional development by interacting/collaborating with Agricultural professionals in defining the goals of a project, choosing methods and communicating the results.
- Assist Jamaican citizens to develop the attitudes, understandings, and abilities regarding agriculture necessary for their future welfare and the sustainability of agriculture.
- Appreciate the influence of Agricultural Research on farming and also on other aspects of our society, such as medicine, statistics and consumer products.
- Understand the interrelationships of agriculture and other segments of society.
- Understand the influence of public policy on agriculture.
- Demonstrate an understanding and appreciation of agriculture for vocational and leisure interests.
- Be able to provide guidance to their charges regarding the occupational opportunities in farm and in non-farm occupations requiring knowledge and skills in agriculture.
- Assist in improving the economic efficiency of the Agricultural Sector and individuals in agriculture.
- Promote balance and meaning in the total educational programme of the school and of individuals.
- Understand the contributions of agriculture to economic and social development.
Matriculation Requirements
- Normal Entry Requirements
The normal entry requirement for the Bachelors in Agricultural Education programmes within the Faculty are; 5 CSEC or O’Level Subjects including English Language, Mathematics, 2 Science Subjects and one other subject. OR Grade 1 Certificate from Knockalva or Sydney Pagan Agricultural schools, or Ebony Park HEART Academy Levels 1 & 2 Certificates in Farm Maintenance.
- Alternative Entry Requirements
Mature students who do not possess the normal minimum entry requirements may be given considerations on a case-by-case basis for acceptance, via the Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition (PLAR) method. The candidate must provide evidence of sustained employment within the field of agriculture with sufficient opportunity to gain experience that can be applied in the area being sought for enrolment.
- Minimum Requirement for Direct Entry to Higher Levels
To be eligible for admission into the upper levels of the four year programmes programme, candidates must meet the matriculation requirement of Associate Degree in Agriculture or Natural Science. Candidates with other relevant qualifications are also considered. Students can apply for advanced standing or course exemptions if they have credits from another recognized institution. Congruence of 80% or above is considered acceptable
Programme Duration and Credits
- The programme is offered over four (4) residential semesters, or six semesters (including 2 summers) for part time students after completion of the Associate Degree in General Agriculture or its equivalent.
- The programme follows the 2 + 2 model, with sixty eight (68) credits in the final 2 years added on to the Associate Degree in General Agriculture.
- However a four degree offering would comprise of (150) credits
