S C OT L A ND ' S R UR A L C OLL EG E
MINI PROSPECTUS 2024 1
CONTENTS Study in Scotland. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Study at SRUC. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 Field Trips and Study Visits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 COURSES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 How to Apply. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 Accommodation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 Student Support. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 Finance and Fees. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 Visit Us. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
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COME TO SCOTLAND! Scotland has so much to offer, it’s no wonder that each year, thousands of students from across the globe make it their number one choice for their study destination.
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Why Study in Scotland With a world-famous reputation for education, research and facilities, Scotland is home to 19 Higher Education Institutions.
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identity, all of which enriches the student experience, making it an ideal place to study and live. Along with its rich history, incredible landmarks and castles a plenty, Scotland is also known for its abundance of wildlife, stunning scenery and dramatic landscapes. There are the most breathtaking mountains, picturesque lochs, rolling countryside, vibrant cities and beautiful beaches along its 10,000 miles of coastline.
Offering some of the most affordable living costs in the UK, there’s also the benefit of excellent employment prospects once graduating from a Scottish institution, due to the strong working partnerships with industry.
Excellent transport links mean easy and accessible travel to and from Ireland, and once you’re here there’s plenty to explore, including its 2 National Parks, 12 National Tourist Routes and the world-famous North Coast 500 road trip!
You’ll be surrounded by Scotland’s unique and diverse culture and
Socially, there’s something for everyone. Scotland is a natural
SCOTLAND’S RURAL COLLEGE
playground for outdoor pursuits on land, water and in the air! It is also home to over 350 festivals, highland games, ceilidhs and sporting events. You’ll find large student populations in the cities, making them lively and fun with a great nightlife scene. Its also not as cold as you may think! The climate is very similar to Ireland. Yes, snow is more common in the winter months but that provides the perfect opportunity to take advantage of one of Scotland’s five ski resorts and then in the summer months, the longer summer days make it ideal for walks along the stunning beaches or taking a stroll in the enticing highlands or lowlands.
Scotland’s Rural College (SRUC) is a specialist institution offering college and university level courses. SRUC strives to help grow a natural economy fuelled by the responsible use of the world’s natural resources: people, land, energy, water, animals and plants. In this, we are experts. We focus on solving the global challenges facing the planet, including climate change, biodiversity and access to nutritious food and clean water. By focusing on the sustainability of our natural economy, SRUC will strive to make
Whether your passion is for business, science, food, golf, plants, animals, sustainability, or just the great outdoors, you will find courses at SRUC tailored to meet the needs of a whole range of industries. Issues such as environmental impact and sustainability have an effect on all our lives and are of importance whether you have ambitions to manage a golf course or a farm, run your own business or run the country. SRUC’s courses consider the innovative science that supports land-based and rural industries, the way they interact with and support the environment around them, and the businesses that rely on them – from agriculture and business to veterinary and zoonoses, and a huge variety of relevant topics in between.
SRUC
A warm and friendly welcome awaits.
a world of difference: delivering economic, social and environmental benefits for all.
Craibstone ABERDEEN Elmwood CUPAR, FIFE
Oatridge WEST LOTHIAN
Belfast
King's Buildings EDINBURGH
Barony near DUMFRIES
Dublin
London
SRUC Offers:
• A choice of campus locations • Levels of study to suit all qualifications and ambition • Study pathways enabling your progression • Specialist resources; access to first-rate and national facilities • Excellent employment prospects in stable and growing industries • Industry-leading expertise, research and knowledge • Practical skills delivered in class and through site visits, case studies and field trips
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Degree courses Honours degrees in Scotland take 4 years (apart from the BVSci Veterinary Science which is 5 years). The first year tends to be broad and general, and you increase your specialist knowledge (often tailoring your course through a choice of elective subjects) as you go through the years. The Honours degree ends with an honours project in the 4th year which is your opportunity to undertake a research project of your own, often working alongside and under the supervision of SRUC’s world-leading research teams. As well as undergraduate degree courses, SRUC offers Certificate and Diploma courses and postgraduate studies too. Not all of our courses are listed here - you can find more detail about all our courses by visiting our website: www.sruc.ac.uk/courses
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“ FIELD TRIPS & VISITS
The highlights were the field trips to various gardens, nurseries and research facilities. These visits really enhance the lectures and bring a new dynamic to each module. Rebecca, Horticulture with Plantsmanship
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At SRUC, learning isn’t confined to the classroom! Whatever course you’re studying you’ll find that study tours, field trips, and real-life case studies all feature. Our smaller teaching groups mean that we are able to arrange regular visits to relevant industry locations to meet with experts working in your field.
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I loved meeting new people and also going on some fantastic field trips to highlight aspects of our course.
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Christina, Rural Business Management
I loved all the field trips that we have taken as part of our modules to the zoo or to research farms. SRUC has many opportunities to expand your network outside of the classroom. Elise, Applied Animal Science
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At SRUC I’ve particularly enjoyed the field trips I’ve been on as a part of many different modules. The opportunity to get into the field provides an application of classroom based learning. It also gives you a chance to meet new people and make connections in your chosen industry. Katie, Environmental Management
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SRUC
Animals and their interactions with humans are at the heart of many societal challenges, including sustainability, environmental impact, conservation and animal welfare. Navigating these challenges requires scientific evidence. SRUC has one of the largest animal science
APPLIED ANIMAL SCIENCE BSc / BSc (Hons)
research groups in Europe, and our research is already effecting positive change on Find out more: www.sruc.ac.uk/ animalscience
The aim of this course is to give you a sound knowledge and understanding of animal science and its applications. You'll learn practical and laboratory skills and develop an understanding of the environmental, ethical and economic contexts in which the sector operates. You'll discover how animal science helps to improve the productivity and sustainability of livestock production systems and control disease epidemics. And you'll learn how it can be used to raise standards of animal welfare, and to enhance wildlife biodiversity.
Location(s):
Edinburgh (King’s Buildings Campus), Dumfries (Barony Campus)
Duration:
4 years
UCAS Code:
D300
Entry Requirements:
JJCPA plus 4 Irish Leaving Certificate subjects at Higher Level at H3, H3, H3, H3, including Biology or Chemistry.
ANIMAL WELFARE SCIENCE BSc / BSc (Hons)
a global scale.
LAURA ANDERSON BSc (Hons) Applied Animal Science
Find out more: www.sruc.ac.uk/ animalscience
Animal welfare is an important global issue in today’s society – with many people expressing concerns about how we treat farm, companion, laboratory, and wild animals. Increasingly, those concerns are part of a wider debate about sustainability and environmental impact. Protecting and improving animal welfare requires an ability to understand animals and assess welfare based on sound scientific principles. This programme will give you a contemporary understanding of the issues and provide the knowledge and skills to enable you to develop a career in this area. You will gain a thorough grounding in animal biology and animal management, followed by a specialised understanding of animal behaviour, animal welfare, human-animal interactions and the ethics of animal use.
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Location(s):
Edinburgh (King’s Buildings Campus)
Duration:
4 years
UCAS Code:
D003
Entry Requirements:
JCPA plus 4 Irish Leaving Certificate subjects at Higher Level at H3, H3, H3, H3, including Biology or Chemistry.
The course is so broad we cover any subject you could dream of relating to animals – from Ethics to Neurology, Physiology to Data Science. There are so many parts of the course to sink your teeth into that you are guaranteed to find your niche.
SRUC
Find out more: www.sruc.ac.uk/ equine
BSc / BSc (Hons)
This course will equip graduates with the skills and knowledge to make an effective contribution to the equine industry. You will learn to successfully establish and run a range of equine businesses and will manage the overall care of horses in a range of equine disciplines and settings such as nutritional advisors, yard managers, stud yards, the racing industry, welfare and animal/equine behaviour. Topics include exercise and anatomy physiology, behaviour and welfare, business management, nutrition and health, and the planning of equine facilities. Study takes places at the prestigious Scottish National Equestrian Centre. Location(s):
West Lothian (Oatridge Campus)
Duration:
4 years
UCAS Code:
D001
Entry Requirements:
JCPA plus 4 Irish Leaving Certificate subjects at Higher Level at H3, H3, H3, H3, including Biology and preferably English.
SRUC
EQUINE SCIENCE AND MANAGEMENT
Research Expertise A visit to www.sruc.ac.uk/ research/research-facilities/ will give you an overview of some of the cutting-edge research undertaken by SRUC scientists. SRUC Research teams work across a number of subject areas including animal behaviour and welfare, soils, genetics, disease and epidemiology, environmental management and impact, economics and policy, and agrifood systems. Our Challenge Centres bring together experts to tackle some of the world’s most pressing issues such as the future of food, the global climate emergency, and digital innovation. We produce research that influences industry, policy, communities and society.
Scottish National Equestrian Centre (SNEC) The Scottish National Equestrian Centre is a key education, training and events facility, owned and operated by SRUC. Not only is The Scottish National Equestrian Centre a state of the art venue for all equestrian sports and activities but it also plays a key role in the delivery of our equine courses. The centre also boasts some fantastic facilities, including an international arena with viewing area, warm up arena, and outdoor grass arena.
Find out more: www.snec.co.uk
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SRUC
SRUC is working with the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS) to ensure the BVSci Veterinary Science programme meets the required standards and graduates will be eligible for registration with the RCVS.
School of Veterinary Medicine
Connor Dewar BSc (Hons) Veterinary Nursing Find out more: www.sruc.ac.uk/ vetschool
Located in Aberdeen (but with links and opportunities throughout Scotland), the SRUC School of Veterinary Medicine offers programmes for all levels of veterinary professional. The new BVSci Veterinary Science degree is scheduled to commence in September 2024 pending final approvals, and this will sit alongside the existing Veterinary Nursing and pathway programmes. Veterinary Nursing and Veterinary Care programmes are offered along with HND Rural Animal Health, which as well as training students to work as veterinary technicians offers those who excel the opportunity to apply to the BVSci. A new state of the art Veterinary Clinical Skills Lab enhances the equine facilities and large animal handling unit at Sunnybrae, Tulloch, our working livestock farm and the Ferguson building where the main lecture spaces, library and student social areas are located. SRUC has a national network of veterinary hubs providing a solid basis for a distributed model of learning and our Consulting offices give us unparalleled links to real rural business.
Veterinary Nursing
BSc / BSc (Hons)
Find out more: www.sruc.ac.uk/ vetnursing
This programme blends academic study and clinical placement with an approved veterinary practice and allows registration as a qualified Veterinary Nurse once you've successfully completed it. You'll learn the competencies you need to undertake practical patient care and theatre duties, and regular clinical skills labs will prepare you for practical examinations. You'll study a wide range of subjects, from anatomy and physiology to animal behaviour and welfare, infection control and clinical practice to anaesthesia and diagnostic techniques. You'll work with a range of animals, including large animals, exotics and wildlife, and most of your third year will be spent putting your learning to use on placement with an approved veterinary practice.
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Location(s):
Aberdeen (Craibstone Campus) Dumfries (Barony Campus)
Duration:
4 years
UCAS Code:
D470
Entry Requirements:
4 Irish Leaving Certificate subjects at Higher Level at H2 H2 H3 H3 to include a literary subject (preferably English) and one from Biology, Chemistry or Physics and JCPA including Maths, English and Science.
I chose the vet nursing course because I want the work that I do to make a difference. Nurses play such a critical role not just in the care of animals, but in reassuring clients and helping to make their experiences in practice as positive as possible. As long as you’re passionate about what you’re doing and work hard, you’ll get plenty of opportunities to develop the skills you need.
Progression Routes to BVSci
VETERINARY SCIENCE BVSci
Find out more: www.sruc.ac.uk/ vet
The BVSci programme has been designed to provide a new, disruptive, and integrated model of veterinary education. You will learn alongside animal industry related professionals so that you will become advocates of the development of economically viable, appropriately skilled, Veterinary Teams. Within these teams you will be better placed to support each other in your professional careers. The programme uses a distributed model to deliver a lecture-free final year based with our partners in industry and clinical practice. This model will enable you to reinforce and consolidate your theoretical learning with the invaluable practical experience that real world settings provide. You will find that this approach smooths the transition to the workplace and acts as a pathway to employment by connecting you with potential employers.
Location(s):
Aberdeen (Craibstone Campus)
Duration:
5 years
UCAS Code:
To be confirmed
Entry Requirements:
5 Higher level subjects H1 H2 H2 H3 H3 including at least 2 science subjects (Agricultural Science, Biology, Chemistry, Physics) plus JCPA achieving a minimum of 5 JCPA subjects including English (Merit or above) and Maths (Merit or above).
Students who complete the HND Rural Animal Health with the required grades during their studies, will be eligible to apply for entry into the BVSci Veterinary Science degree. Students who have completed degrees with a 2:1 or higher in subjects such as Animal Science, Veterinary Nursing, Chemistry, Biology or other degrees that have a strong scientific element to them may be eligible to apply as graduate entrants.
MEGAN MACLEOD HND Rural Animal Health
Note: SRUC does not use the points system, we will look at the individual subjects and grades, but for reference we are seeking approx. 420 points.
RURAL ANIMAL HEALTH HND
Find out more: www.sruc.ac.uk/ vet
This programme provides you with a solid grounding in modern biological principles, including the molecular basis of infection and immunity, genetics (principles behind genomics testing), reproduction (principles behind embryo transfer and IVF), animal physiology and nutrition. You’ll be given hands-on practical experience with multiple species including sheep, cows, and horses. You will learn skills such as, artificial insemination, dosing techniques, handling, body condition scoring, locomotion analysis and health and welfare analysis. You will also gain an understanding of the agricultural cycle, animal health as a pivotal component of a sustainable rural business, and animal health and welfare legislation.
Location(s):
Aberdeen (Craibstone Campus)
Duration:
2 years
UCAS Code:
HDAH
Entry Requirements:
JCPA including English, Maths and science, plus 3 Irish Leaving Certificate subjects at Higher Level at H3, H3, H3, including two science subjects (Agricultural Science, Biology, Chemistry, Physics).
I would say my highlight so far would have to be the practical we did where we used water-based paints to paint on the skeletal and muscular systems onto a cow. It was great fun to work together to get it onto the cow and very informative as it helped us to visualise more. I’m hoping to go onto the new BVSci Veterinary Science programme after my two years on this course. My back-up plan is to become a large animal veterinary technician.
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Shannon McLauchlan BA (Hons) Rural Business Management
AGRICULTURAL TECHNOLOGY
BSc / BSc (Hons)
Find out more: www.sruc.ac.uk/ agriculture
This course will teach you about all aspects of agricultural technology and how it is applied. You'll visit development sites, research institutes and commercial companies to see how the technologies we're studying are put into action. You will develop knowledge and understanding of technologies used in modern agriculture. The course includes modules on engineering and mechanisation (focused on land-based engineering, built environment and renewable energy), as well as electronics, computing and control systems. It also studies soils and crops and livestock husbandry and management. Broadly speaking, an Honours graduate will be able to develop and build a comprehensive precision farming model in any agricultural system.
Location(s):
Dumfries (Barony Campus)
Duration:
4 years
UCAS Code:
D701
Entry Requirements:
JCPA plus 4 Irish Leaving Certificate subjects at Higher Level at H3, H3, H3, H3, including Biology, Agricultural Science or Chemistry.
RURAL BUSINESS MANAGEMENT
BA / BA (Hons)
Find out more: www.sruc.ac.uk/ business
The innovative content of this course is designed to meet your needs — and those of prospective employers. Offering a well-rounded business education, it also develops practical skills that can be applied in a range of environments.
I have thoroughly enjoyed all of the units offered within my course, especially Advanced Case Studies where I was able to go on field trips to real organisations and see how they operate in real life. I was also able to meet industry professionals and ask advice on working within the industry which allowed me to put the theory I learned in the classroom into context.
Core studies are complemented by specialist elective modules that let you tailor your studies towards your own specific interests (such as food, agriculture, tourism, equine and land management). Throughout the course you'll make useful industry contacts, learn from regular guest speakers and make practical field trips. You'll also learn about planning, budgeting, business law and data handling. Our teaching, research and consultancy staff offer constant support and are always there to advise you if you need them.
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Location(s):
Edinburgh (King’s Buildings Campus) Aberdeen (Craibstone Campus), Dumfries (Barony Campus)
Duration:
4 years
UCAS Code:
D0N0
Entry Requirements:
JCPA plus 4 Irish Leaving Certificate subjects at Higher Level at H3, H3, H3, H3.
Rural Business Management can be completed with an accreditation from the Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors (RICS)
SRUC
SRUC
With the joint academic and business focus of SRUC, and our unrivalled research and access to industry, your course will be relevant and current. Strong links to research institutes and landbased industries have ensured that SRUC’s former students have an excellent track record of gaining professional jobs in their chosen subject after graduation.
AGRICULTURE BSc / BSc (Hons)
Industry Links and Connections
Find out more: www.sruc.ac.uk/ agriculture
This course will teach you about every element of the food production chain, from plough to plate, while at the same time developing skills you can use in senior management positions in national and international agricultural, agri-business, or agri-food industries. You'll learn how to collect, analyse and evaluate the information you need to tackle problems and make sound decisions. You'll gain an appreciation of the environmental, moral, ethical and legal issues relevant to the agricultural industry today, along with insight into how agriculture interrelates with society.
Whatever course you’re studying you’ll find that study tours, field trips, and real-life case studies all feature. Our smaller teaching groups also mean we are able to arrange regular visits to relevant industry locations to meet with experts working in your field. You’ll have exposure to a wide range of practical examples as well as contact with industry and where appropriate to your course, you will also study for industry recognised training qualifications.
As you progress, your interaction with specialist research and consultancy staff will increase. To provide an international perspective, you'll also undertake an overseas study tour based on a relevant theme.
Location(s):
Edinburgh (King’s Buildings Campus) Aberdeen (Craibstone Campus), Dumfries (Barony Campus)
Duration:
4 years
UCAS Code:
DN42
Entry Requirements:
JCPA plus 4 Irish Leaving Certificate subjects at Higher Level at H3, H3, H3, H3, including a science subject or Geography.
World-Leading Resources SRUC has a network of 25 consulting offices, working across Scotland and northern England, providing independent, research-driven, industry-leading expertise, advice and solutions for agricultural, food, and land-based businesses. With strong links into research and education as part of SRUC, our consulting teams turn research into practice, supporting a broad range of clients from farmers and crofters, to large multinationals and public sector organisations. The Enterprise Academy for the Rural and Natural Economy champions entrepreneurial ambitions across the worlds of education, business and research. Drawing on expertise across SRUC, we encourage sustainable growth, promote innovation, and support students, staff and businesses to connect and grow. SRUC manages a number of research farms of over 4400 hectares, to provide research, education and knowledge transfer in dairying, arable, beef, upland/hill sheep systems, pig and poultry farming. Our farms are used to support outdoor teaching and academic research as well as commercial activity.
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SRUC
SRUC has particular strengths in environmental consultancy and research – these provide us with a wide range of experts to
ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT
BSc / BSc (Hons)
call on who are employed in the sector, as well as links with other external bodies and organisation. Find out more: www.sruc.ac.uk/ environment
This course aims to raise levels of awareness for today's environmental concerns, teach related skills and knowledge and encourage a holistic approach to modern sustainable development and land management. This is achieved not by studying environmental issues alone, but by looking at them in relation to the Sustainable Development Goals and competing governmental priorities. You will gain a solid understanding of climate change and the global environment, Geographical Information Systems (GIS), research skills and data analysis, environmental toxicology, integrated catchment management, community and project management, environmental economics, carbon management and more.
LIAM THORPE BSc (Hons) Environmental Management
As well as the core modules, you'll be able to choose your own area of specialism from a variety of elective subjects. Location(s):
Edinburgh (King’s Buildings Campus)
Duration:
4 years
UCAS Code:
8M9L
Entry Requirements:
JCPA plus 4 Irish Leaving Certificate subjects at Higher Level at H3, H3, H3, H3, including a science subject or Geography.
WILDLIFE AND CONSERVATION MANAGEMENT
Find out more: www.sruc.ac.uk/ conservation
BSc / BSc (Hons)
Biodiversity conservation, species and habitat identification, visitor management and land use are all included in this dynamic, hands-on course taught by enthusiastic professionals with direct experience in the land-based industries. You’ll learn the ecological knowledge and methodology required for the practical application of conservation and land management, debate the methods to manage human impact on natural assets, explain the need for action in conservation projects, and interrogate a range of data sources (species, habitat, climatic, etc) to support your arguments. The course offers flexibility, allowing you to choose modules to suit your particular aspirations, and you’ll put the knowledge you gain to good use though real-life scenarios and case studies.
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Location(s):
Aberdeen (Craibstone Campus), Dumfries (Barony Campus) West Lothian (Oatridge Campus) / Edinburgh (King’s Buildings Campus) 2+2
Duration:
4 years
UCAS Code:
F751
Entry Requirements:
JCPA plus 4 Irish Leaving Certificate subjects at Higher Level at H3, H3, H3, H3.
I chose this course based on an interest in biology and geography and aspirations to work towards mitigating impacts of climate change and/or contribute to the conservation of species. Although I had some awareness of what interested me, I was yet to narrow it down - the broad range of subjects that this course offered was a perfect fit for me to explore my interests.
SRUC GARDEN AND GREENSPACE DESIGN
Find out more: www.sruc.ac.uk/ gardendesign
BSc / BSc (Hons)
Gardens and green spaces are essential for improving health and wellbeing and creating a sense of belonging. In a changing climate with increased pressure on urban and rural land, landscape designers are ideally placed to provide leadership. This course gives you the skills and awareness required to practice working in a variety of settings, from the domestic garden to the public open space. Once you have covered the fundamentals of garden design, you will work on real life projects with real clients in the public and private realm at a variety of scales, learning how to understand places, plants, and people in increasing detail. A qualification in Garden Design can open up a wide range of career possibilities and many successful students now run their own small businesses. Location(s):
Edinburgh (King’s Buildings Campus)
Duration:
4 years
UCAS Code:
K301
Entry Requirements:
JCPA plus 4 Irish Leaving Certificate subjects at Higher Level at H3, H3, H3, H3, preferably including a science subject.
Sustainability and the Natural Economy We live in a time of unparalleled challenge to climate and biodiversity. For solutions to work, we need to find new ways of working together and applying our knowledge. Creating a sustainable future, including tackling climate change and reversing nature loss, is a huge challenge, requiring global collaboration. It requires good decision-making and engagement with complex social, economic and environmental challenges. Embracing these challenges is at the core of our ethos at SRUC. Many of our courses share a common goal of the responsible management of our natural resources and environment. Combining our world class research with academic staff from a wide range of industry specialisms and working with relevant business partners, ensures we can equip you with the latest knowledge, processes and technology to support these principles, preparing you for a range of exciting careers helping safeguard our delicate planet.
GOLF Whether you are interested in pursuing a career as a Pro Golfer or want to work in the amazing and technical world of Golf Course Management and Greenkeeping, SRUC has full-time and part-time programmes to drive your career to the next level.
Find out more: www.sruc.ac.uk/ golf
SRUC offers courses in Professional Golf and Golf Course Management to Higher National Diploma level. The courses are designed to equip you with the necessary skills to develop knowledge and employment skills leading into industry covering golf coaching, sports science, retail, turf management, and the management of golf facilities. Our links with some of the premier golf complexes in the UK ensure that you will have an opportunity to gain a real understanding of what the industry requires.
Location(s):
Cupar, Fife (Elmwood Campus), Distance Learning
Duration:
1-2 years
UCAS Code:
To be confirmed
Entry Requirements:
JCPA plus 2 Irish Leaving Certificate subjects at Higher Level at H3, H3. Professional Golf applicants require evidence of regular participation in golf, for example handicap and club membership.
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The Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh (RBGE) is a worldleading centre of excellence in plant science, conservation horticulture and education.
HORTICULTURE WITH PLANTSMANSHIP
The landscaped gardens, botanical collections, and expertise of RBGE staff offer a unique learning resource unparalleled in Scotland.
Find out more: www.sruc.ac.uk/ horticulture
BSc / BSc (Hons)
This course gives you the botanical abilities in plant identification and the techniques appropriate to historic garden restoration at a high level. It develops your understanding of how to integrate the management of plant collections with knowledge of plant distribution, classification, diversity, structure, identification and cultivation. You’ll gain a global and historical perspective on plants and plant collections. You'll also develop your scientific understanding of taxonomy and physiology.
Stella Jardine BSc (Hons) Horticulture with Plantsmanship
This degree is delivered in partnership with the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh (RBGE), with classes and practical work based at both RBGE and SRUC’s Edinburgh campus, giving you access to the considerable resources and expertise of both organisations. Location(s):
Edinburgh (King’s Buildings Campus)
Duration:
4 years
UCAS Code:
D4D7
Entry Requirements:
JCPA plus 4 Irish Leaving Certificate subjects at Higher Level at H3, H3, H3, H3, including a science subject.
HORTICULTURE BSc / BSc (Hons)
Find out more: www.sruc.ac.uk/ horticulture
As well as an understanding of the commercial production of fruit, vegetables, flowers and ornamental plants, this course teaches how to address the design, establishment and maintenance of parks and gardens, open spaces and managed landscapes. It will give you a broad base of horticultural knowledge that prepares you for work in any area of the industry, and establishes your capabilities in horticultural science, experimentation in plant physiology and advances in horticultural technology. Classroom teaching is supported by visits to growers and landscapes, during which you'll learn to evaluate management requirements and production methods.
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Location(s):
Edinburgh (King’s Buildings Campus)
Duration:
4 years
UCAS Code:
D410
Entry Requirements:
JCPA plus 4 Irish Leaving Certificate subjects at Higher Level at H3, H3, H3, H3, including a science subject.
I applied to the Horticulture course at Edinburgh, hoping to meet people with similar interests and build on my knowledge. I had seen a lot of the SRUC Edinburgh social media posts that gave me an insight into the courses and made me even more intrigued about what I could learn. My favourite module so far is Plant Classification and Systematics run by an extremely knowledgeable lecturer. The plant identification tests broaden my general plant knowledge and we learn in detail about various plant families including the history and evolutions as well as morphology and taxonomy.
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This course offered the practical aspect as well as lecture-based learning, which gave me an opportunity to develop hands-on experience and practical techniques while studying. This integrated approach to education gives me a competitive advantage when starting my career. Katie, Environmental Management
The campus laboratories and proximity to research farms gave opportunities for practical learning and hands-on experience to complement our lectures. Elise, Animal Science
Practical Skills
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Practical skills and real-life handson experience are embedded into every course at SRUC.
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The practical sessions have definitely been my highlights, they have been outstanding. I’ve really enjoyed getting my hands dirty. Gillies, Agriculture
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The campus is well set up and resourced to provide practical handson experience with a large variety of animals. Emma, Vet Nursing
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I was able to have the opportunity to go on field trips to real organisations and see how they operate ‘in real life’ and report on my findings and experience whilst I was there. I was also able to meet industry professionals and ask advice on working within the industry as well as learn more on their own businesses which allowed me to put the theory I learned in the classroom into real life context. Shannon, Rural Business Management
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Postgraduate Study SRUC prides itself on developing its students and staff to lead the way. Through postgraduate study, students deepen their knowledge in their chosen area to give them a distinct advantage over their industry peers.
Find out more: www.sruc.ac.uk/ postgraduate
Part-time distance learning courses are the perfect choice for those who can’t step away from their commitments for the duration of a traditional Masters. Online classes and assessments allow students to continue to work wherever they are without having to worry about moving home or commuting. The part-time structure breaks the masters down into three distinct years which each 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. We work closely in partnership with the University of Edinburgh and the University of Glasgow to deliver a postgraduate course portfolio rich with the academic rigour and industry relevance to advance your understanding, preparing you for the next step in your career or studies. SRUC works with industry-leading experts in the land-based sector whose knowledge and cutting-edge research feed into the courses to ensure what is being taught is always current, relevant and useful. This is vital in this sector, where new technology, scientific findings and government legislation all contest to drive the industry forwards.
MSc / PgDip / PgCert Agricultural Professional Practice MSc Animal Nutrition MSc Applied Animal Behaviour and Animal Welfare MSc Applied Poultry Science MSc Ecological Economics MSc Environmental Protection and Management MSc Food Security MSc International Animal Welfare, Ethics and Law MSc / PgDip / PgCert Organic Farming MSc Soils and Sustainability MSc / PgDip / PgCert Wildlife and Conservation Management MRes Zoonoses and Epidemiology of Animal Infectious Diseases 16
How to Apply www.sruc.ac.uk/admissions
To apply, you’ll need qualifications (as defined in the entry requirements on our website), a personal statement saying why you would like to study the course, and a reference from someone who knows you, such as a teacher. For some courses you may also need to attend an interview or provide evidence of relevant work or practical experience.
If you are applying for a degree course you need to apply through the UCAS system. www.ucas.com Visit the UCAS website for guidance and instructions. Here’s what you need to know: • You apply online. You register for a UCAS account through the UCAS Hub and they will ask for basic information such as your name and a contact email address. Once you have created your account you can save your application at any time and come back to it later. • You should ideally apply for your course before the January deadline. This is usually the last Wednesday in January. Don’t leave it to the last minute – you can apply any time from September onwards for courses starting the following year, and please note that the application deadline for the BVSci Veterinary Science course is the earlier deadline of mid-October. SRUC do accept late application for our courses – we will accept applications up until the course start as long as there are still places available. If you leave it too late though, the course may be closed because it is full. • The online application form asks for your residency status, and if you live in and are a national of the Republic of Ireland you should answer: EU National (non-UK citizen). If you have not lived in Ireland for long, or think you might be an overseas student, please contact us by emailing admissions@sruc.ac.uk to ask for guidance. • The application form will ask you to enter all of your qualifications – these are listed by name and country. Enter everything you have – those which you have completed, with the grades, and those which you are currently studying. • Add the course(s) you are applying for using the dropdown options you are provided with. • You’ll need a personal statement – this has to be between 1000 and 4000 characters in length, and is your chance to tell us why you would like to study the course you’ve applied for and what skills and experience you have. It’s easiest to write this up in a separate document before you start. • You'll also need someone to provide you with a reference. This is usually a teacher, but if you have left school can be an employer or supervisor. Please check with your school how they process UCAS applications. If you are applying as an individual applicant, once you have fully completed the application you can add the contact details for your referee. Your referee will then receive an email from UCAS with a link allowing them to complete the reference, • Finally, once your reference has been completed, you need to pay a fee and submit your UCAS application. UCAS then sends the application to SRUC and we send our decision back to UCAS, so you need to keep looking out for any emails and keep checking the UCAS Hub. We are here to help – if you have any problems with applying for your course, please email admissions@sruc.ac.uk 17
Accommodation Students stay on site or close to their selected campus whilst studying with SRUC. The accommodation provision is slightly different at each campus; some campuses offer SRUC student accommodation, and in other locations we work with local providers and partners. More information is available on our website & virtual experience, www.sruc.ac.uk/accommodation
Student Support Starting a new course is a time when all students will need support in one form or another. You’ll be facing all sorts of new challenges – managing your finances, balancing time commitments, being away from home, and possibly working and juggling family responsibilities. You may also need some academic support to help you get the most out of your studies. If you find you need help, you’ll have the reassurance that support is readily available. If you have any support needs or questions, it is usually best to contact us as soon as possible, even before you start your course or your application. www.sruc.ac.uk/studentsupport
Living Costs As SRUC campuses are located across Scotland, giving average costs can be difficult – some things cost different amounts in different locations. Here are some examples though, to help you compare living costs in Scotland to being at home. (All are accurate as of Summer 2023). A single trip bus fare in Edinburgh costs £2, and prices are similar in other Scottish cities. You can also buy daily and monthly passes which save you money if you travel every day. There are many different places to buy groceries – and a range of prices. Common supermarkets include Aldi, Asda, Lidl, Sainsburys, and Tesco. Some approximate prices are as follows (in £ Sterling): 4 pints of milk: £1.55 Loaf of bread £1.50 Tin of soup 75p 1kg rice £2 1kg pasta £1.70 6 free range eggs £1.50 A coffee in a café £3-£4 but much cheaper in the café’s on campus. A pint of beer, very much depends what and where you drink but £4-£6 If you would like any advice, please email the student recruitment team at StudyinScotland@sruc.ac.uk
Tuition Fees What Fees can I expect to pay? As an Irish undergraduate student, you will be required to pay the same tuition fees as the UK students. This is currently capped at £9250 per annum. You can find the most up-to-date fees on our website: www.sruc.ac.uk/tuitionfees Am I entitled to any funding? Irish students are entitled to apply for a tuition fee loan. You may also be eligible for a maintenance grant if you meet the criteria for the Irish Student Grant Scheme. Visit www.saas.gov.uk for further information. Is there a bursary available? In Scotland a typical honours degree is 4 years. At SRUC, tuition fees are charged for the first 3 years of the 4 year degree and we offer all Irish students the 4th year free. (Please note, this does not apply to the 5-year BVSci). Travel bursary We recognise that it isn’t always easy financially to attend our Open Days and Applicant Days when there is travel involved. We really don’t want you to miss out! If you are travelling from Ireland to attend one of our events we will reimburse you £150 to help cover your travel costs. Make sure you bring evidence of your home address with you, and we can sort it out on the day of your visit.
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£150 Travel Bursary plus your th 4 year free!
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OPEN DAYS Open Days are a great opportunity for you to get a feel for the campus. We offer inperson as well as virtual online open events; both offer you the chance to hear from course tutors and find out more about our courses. Find out why studying with us will give you the skills and knowledge to help you progress along your chosen career path, hear from students and Student Ambassadors, and ask any questions of our teaching and support teams. Dates for our next Open Day events can be found on our website: www.sruc.ac.uk/opendays Accessibility: Our intention is to be as inclusive as possible. We will make reasonable adjustments to support attendance at open days and provide access to open day materials after an event, including the use of captioning and BSL translation. If there is an adjustment that would improve your experience of an Open Day event or related materials please contact us on study@sruc.ac.uk. You can find out more about how we're making our digital content accessible at: www.sruc.ac.uk/connect/ aboutsruc/policies-compliance/compliance/accessibility/
Virtual Experience If you can’t come over to visit, don’t worry – we have a Virtual Experience site where you can see our facilities, campus tours, student stories and a personalised introduction to what it’s like to study at SRUC. Visit www.sruc.ac.uk/experience
Prospectus If you like what you see, order or download our full prospectus.
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The information contained within this prospectus is correct at time of print (Summer 2023). You should always check our website for the most up-to-date information as course amendments, such as changes in location or entry requirements, can occur.
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Contact Us StudyinScotland@sruc.ac.uk www.sruc.ac.uk @SRUCStudy @SRUC @SRUCStudy @SRUCStudy /SRUCEdinburgh /SRUCAberdeen /SRUCBarony
Supporting responsible forestry
SRUC is a charitable company limited by guarantee (Company No SC103046, Charity No SC003712). General information about SRUC’s research and consultancy work may be obtained from: SRUC, West Mains Road, Edinburgh EH9 3JG. Telephone: 0131 535 4000 Web: www.sruc.ac.uk Photographs are provided by SRUC, current and former staff and students of SRUC, RBGE, and professional photographers. Front cover image © iStockphoto.com. This prospectus has been designed and printed by www.albaprinters.co.uk