Qualification profile BSc Agricultural Sciences

Introduction

The objective of the Bachelor’s degree programme in Agricultural Sciences is to provide a broad knowledge of various agricultural disciplines, which are grounded in the sciences and social sciences. During the programme acquired knowledge is deepened by practice via excursions and an internship in agriculture. The Bachelor’s degree entitles holders to enter the Master’s degree programme and to intra- and interuniversity mobility. Professional qualification is only complete when the Master’s degree is obtained.

Domain-specific knowledge and understanding

Graduates with a Bachelor’s degree in Agricultural Sciences

• have a good grounding in mathematics, chemistry, biology, physics, computer science and environmental systems;
  
• are familiar with basic laboratory techniques;
• have mastered mathematical and statistical analysis and optimisation procedures;
  
• are familiar with basic laboratory techniques;
• know the basics of agricultural systems and the farming production systems and methods in Switzerland and other countries/regions;
• possess specialist knowledge in the following areas:
  • sustainable production of safe and high-quality food
  • crops and fodder plants: cultivation, plant nutrition, crop protection, genetics
  • livestock: genetics, nutrition, physiology, behaviour, husbandry, health
  • agricultural economics: agricultural economics, market policy, management, marketing

Skills

a) Analytical skills

Graduates with a Bachelor’s degree in Agricultural Sciences

• an analyse, describe, understand and explain agricultural ecosystems in Switzerland and other countries/regions;
• are able to recognise agricultural issues at the industrial and regional level;
• can analyse and describe complex ecological, social, economic and ethical issues of the world food system.

b) Development skills

Graduates with a Bachelor’s degree in Agricultural Sciences

• can develop solutions to agricultural problems at the industrial and regional level;
• are able to implement laboratory techniques to address agricultural issues;
• an develop application-oriented solutions for safe and sustainable agricultural and food production of the world food system;
• are able to address agricultural issues independently and present results according to scientific conventions in the form of reports or talks.

Personal and social competences

Graduates with a Bachelor’s degree in Agricultural Sciences

• cultivate a critical approach to information, and are able to summarise and link significant points from various sources;
• know the basics of project and teamwork and are able to work in teams;
• can apply their broad theoretical knowledge to address practical issues;
• are able to present their knowledge in written and spoken form.