The Master's Degree Programme in Plant Production Science
General description
The English-language Master’s Degree Programme in Plant Production Science (MScPPS) admits a maximum of 15 students in 2012. In addition, between 2007 and 2012, a total of 10 students can be admitted from the Nicaragua-Finland Agrobiotechnology Programme NIFAPRO) funded by the Ministry for Foreign Affairs of Finland.
General introduction to MScPPS and NIFAPRO programmes
MScPPS was initiated in 2007 by the Department of Agricultural Sciences (earlier Dept. of Applied Biology). It provides students with an advanced knowledge needed for development of plant production in response to rapidly changing challenges in the food and agricultural sector. The focus of MScPPS studies ranges from molecular and cell biology to agroecology and food production systems.
The high quality and international impact of the research at the Department of Agricultural Sciences makes the studying environment innovative and guarantees up-to-date high-quality teaching.
The programme offers five specialist options under the major subject of Plant Production Sciences: 1) Agroecology, 2) Crop Science, 3) Horticulture, 4) Plant Breeding, and 5) Plant Pathology. There is also an an opportunity to specialise in Plant Virology or in Nordic Plant Pathology studies within Plant Pathology.
NIFAPRO was founded in 2007 by the Department of Agricultural Sciences and the Nicaraguan Agricultural Research Institute INTA. It is funded by the Ministry for Foreign Affairs of Finland. The aim is to build capacity in agrobiotechnology for Nicaragua and hence increase agricultural productivity and food safety, facilitate economic development in rural areas and reduce poverty. Training via research, expert workshops and structured study programs in close collaboration with the MScPPS programme are the main methods.
MScPPS in a nutshell
Degree: This programme leads to the degree of Master of Science in Agriculture and Forestry (M.Sc. (Agr. and For.))
Extent and Duration: 120 ECTS credits, 2 years (+up to 30 ECTS credits of supplementary studies, if needed)
Starting date: In the beginning of September each year
Previous studies: BSc level degree in Agricultural, Horticultural or Plant Sciences or in Biosciences
Language: English
Major subject: Plant Production Sciences (earlier Plant Production Biology)
Specialist options: Agroecology, Crop Science, Horticulture, Plant Breeding, and Plant Pathology
Aim of the programme: We aim to provide you with an extensive knowledge of plant production science along with an understanding of scientific research that can be used for promoting sustainable development of agriculture and horticulture. We also place special emphasis on developing your multicultural communication skills.
Departments involved: The MScPPS Programme is organized by the Department of Agricultural Sciences. Other participants include:
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Department of Food and Environmental Sciences / Soil Science, UH
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Faculty of Biological and Environmental Sciences, UH
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Ruralia Institute, UH
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Master's Degree Programme in Biotechnology (MBIOT) / Plant and Forest Biotechnology
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Master's Degree Programme in Environment and Natural Resources (MENVI) / Agroecology
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Agrifood Research Finland (MTT)
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The University of Tartu in Estonia
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Nordic Forestry, Veterinary and Agricultural University Network (NOVA)