Introduction

The Bachelor of Science agriculture programme is to provide training in advanced and applied aspects of agriculture to produce skilled professionals with the capacity to develop and promote the uptake of innovations, technologies and knowhow that increases agricultural productivity and supports sustainable development. Graduates of this programme should be able to provide quality leadership in agricultural training, research, formulation of development strategies, advisory, policy development, and consultancy services in private and public sectors.

Programme Objectives

  • To demonstrate understanding of the entire agricultural development value chain
  • To design and implement agricultural production systems for food security and income generation
  • To train and educate farmers on emerging innovations in agricultural ecosystem.
  • To formulate policy and research aspects that would take agriculture to the next level
  • Pursue further education in agriculture.

Justification/Rationale

Food security and sovereignty are persistent national development challenges that impact many other sectors of human well-being. Globally and nationally, agricultural development needs to guarantee availability of quality crop and animal products and services within and between generations. Vision 2030 identifies agriculture sector as one of the key drivers of the economy in order to sustainably achieve average economic growth rate of 10 percent, reduce poverty levels to 25 percent and boost food security to 30 percent by the year 2030. The African Union Agenda 2063 aspiration for “A prosperous Africa based on inclusive growth and sustainable development” (Aspiration 1) emphasizes the importance of modernized agriculture sector for increased productivity, economic growth and food security and poverty reduction. The Sustainable Development Goal 2 to “End hunger, achieve food security and improved nutrition and promote sustainable agriculture” (SDG2) recognizes the importance of sustainable agriculture in empowering small-scale farmers, promoting gender equality, ending rural poverty, and ensuring healthy lifestyles. Evidence shows that training contributes to the improvement of agricultural productivity and serves as the foundation for various other initiatives aimed at increasing agricultural output. The BSc Agriculture programme aims to contribute to achieving the above national, continental and global aspirations and development goals. Furthermore, the revision of the BSc Agriculture curriculum is informed by the output of a stakeholders meeting held in February 2024 involving representatives of industry, faculty, students, ministry and external collaborators from universities teaching agriculture in the East African region and from the EU (attached report). The stakeholder consultation meeting identified the need for a revamped curriculum in particular to strengthen linkages with industry, to enhance the opportunities for learners to gain practical training (learning by doing) and improved methods such as problem-based learning. 

 

Entry Requirements

The common Kenyatta University and the School of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences Environmental Sciences admission regulations shall apply.

  • Candidates must have passed with a mean grade of C+ (plus) at KCSE or equivalent.
  • In addition, the student must have obtained a minimum of C+ (plus) or equivalent in Biology/Biological sciences and any two (2) of the following subjects: Chemistry, Agriculture, Geography, and Physical Science/Physics.
  • In addition, candidates must have obtained Grade C (plain) in Mathematics at KSCE or equivalent OR mean grade of C (plain) at KCSE with a Diploma of at least a Credit pass in a relevant field of study from a recognized institution.
  • OR at least two (2) Principals and one (1) Subsidiary in science subjects with a Principal pass in biology at KACE (A-level) or its equivalent.

Mode and structure of delivery

The mode of delivery will be by face to face, virtual and open learning, and blended learning. 

Programme duration

This programme is a four-year program that will be completed in 8 academic semesters

Curriculum Highlights

Career Opportunities

Tuition and Fees structure

Why choose this programme in KU