This programme was developed with due consideration to the fact that agriculture and food are prime industries in Jamaica and are key components in the national development policy. In order to succeed and maintain a sustainable presence in today’s market place, it is imperative that Jamaica’s agricultural food industry has a cadre of highly skilled and qualified individuals. Therefore the aim of the B. Tech in Agricultural Production and Food Systems Management is to improve the level of technical education available to Jamaicans and other individuals within the region.
Upon completion of the programme graduates should:
- Carryout production, processing, storage, distribution and waste management activities within the food system that meet international best practices.
- Supervise operational processes in food systems operations.
- Create and modify routine tasks in food system operations.
- Promote food products and services, as well as developing and distributing them to the ultimate consumers.
- Monitor efficiency and effectiveness in food systems operations.
- Evaluate processes and operations for effectiveness and financial viability.
- Conduct applied research into food system issues which has positive effect on sustainability.
- Create technological innovations to improve food security for a local food system.
- Recognize the ethical, legal and social obligations and responsibilities of food systems managers in fragile agro-ecological systems.
Matriculation Requirements
- Normal Entry Requirements
The normal entry requirement for the BTECH 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 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
