Agricultural Science applies cutting-edge biological, technological, and economic principles to sustainably enhance food and fibre production. At UKZN, our programmes combine rigorous academic training with hands-on fieldwork, preparing graduates to address Africa’s unique agricultural challenges.
Agricultural Science includes sub-disciplines such as Agricultural Plant Sciences, Animal Sciences, and Plant Breeding, which focus on improving crops and livestock through science and research.
Animal Science covers most aspects of animal production and animal products. Students investigate health, breeding, physiology, nutrition and environmental factors to optimise production.
Crop Science is the application of biological, chemical & physical principles to crops and cropping systems to increase their efficiency in converting light & supplemental resources into food, feed, fibre or floral commodities.
Horticulture is the art of cultivating plants in gardens to produce food and medicinal ingredients or ornamental purposes. Horticulturists grow flowers, fruits and nuts, vegetables, ornamental trees and lawns.
Plant Breeding is the art & science of improving the heredity of plants for the benefit of mankind. The modern plant breeder is an accomplished biologist with a broad understanding of a host of different sciences.
Plant Pathology is the study of the organisms and environmental conditions that cause disease in plants. Plant Pathologists are concerned with the understanding of the dynamic processes involved in the plant health.
Soil Science is the study of soils in the environment. It combines specialist areas such as soil physics, soil chemistry, soil mineralogy, soil microbiology and pedology (the study of soils in the field).
Why Study Agricultural Science?
Agricultural Science equips you with the knowledge and skills to tackle pressing global challenges like food security, climate change, and sustainable resource management, while offering diverse career opportunities in agribusiness, research, policy, and technology. At UKZN, you’ll gain hands-on experience through cutting-edge research facilities like Ukulinga Research Farm, industry partnerships, and a curriculum focused on Africa’s unique agricultural needs—from drought-resistant crops to livestock optimization. This degree not only prepares you for high-demand roles in South Africa’s vital agricultural sector but also empowers you to drive meaningful change in rural communities and contribute to global food systems, blending innovation with real-world impact.
(For detailed module information, please consult our current College Handbook)
The three-year undergraduate focused programme leading to the degree of Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Agricultural Science is offered at the Pietermaritzburg Campus.
A one-year specialist programme leading to the degree of Bachelor of Science (Honours). A minimum of 50% must be achieved at BSc level to gain admittance to Honours.
A Master of Science programme is offered, whereby students engage in research under the supervision of an academic staff member. A minimum of a BSc Honours degree or equivalent must be achieved to be considered for this programme. This is typically two years of full time study.
A Doctor of Philosophy programme is offered where students engage in novel research supervised by academic members of staff. This is typically three years of full-time study and normally follows on from a Master of Science Degree.
To apply, please visit our School’s Undergraduate or Postgraduate page for step-by-step instructions, downloadable application forms, and the online application link.
We have a number of research groups that specialise in areas of research in Agricultural Science.
UKZN Research Space was developed to increase the visibility, availability and impact of tour students’ research output.
Academic Leader (Acting) yobok@ukzn.ac.za / 033 260 5822
