Postgraduate
Programmes leading to a qualification in Agronomy include:
Q&A
Please have a look at some answers to your questions:
A: Agronomy is the science of crop production and soil management, focusing on sustainable and efficient farming practices. It involves:
1. Studying plant genetics, physiology, and nutrition.
2. Managing soil health, irrigation, and fertilisation.
3. Controlling weeds, pests, and diseases.
4. Improving crop yields and quality through research and technology.
Agronomists work to ensure food security while minimising environmental impact.
Stellenbosch University offers BScAgric
degrees with Agronomy as a major in three main streams:
1. BScAgric: Crop Production Systems (Agronomy) – Focuses on crop science, soil management, and farm
production.
2. BScAgric: Crop Production Systems (Agronomy & Agricultural Economics) – Combines agronomy with
farm business and resource economics.
3. BScAgric: Soil and Water Management (Agronomy) – Specialises in sustainable soil use, irrigation, and
environmental conservation.
Crop Production Systems (Agronomy) – Strong focus on crop science, field management, and agronomic
research.
2. Agronomy & Agricultural Economics – Adds farm management, marketing, and financial decision-making.
3. Soil and Water Management – Emphasises soil conservation, hydrology, and sustainable land use.
All programmes share core agronomy modules but differ in their secondary focus areas.
1. BScAgric (Stellenbosch) – More science-based, with research and technical training in agronomy, genetics,
and soil science. Leads to careers in agronomy, research, or agribusiness.
2. BAgric (Elsenberg) – More practical and hands-on, focusing on farm management and production. Better
suited for students aiming to run farms or work in agricultural extension services.
Consider your interests and career goals:
1. If you love crop science and research → Choose BScAgric: Crop Production Systems (Agronomy).
2. If you want to manage farms or work in agribusiness → BScAgric: Agronomy & Agricultural Economics is
ideal.
3. If soil conservation and water management interest you → BScAgric: Soil and Water Management is the
best fit.
4. If you prefer hands-on farming → The BAgric at Elsenberg may be better.
Speak to academic advisors or attend open days to explore options. Also, the first two-years are very similar, so
you can change to whichever major you find yourself loving!
Agronomy is highly practical! The programme includes:
1. Fieldwork (crop trials, soil sampling, irrigation studies).
2. Laboratory sessions (plant pathology, soil chemistry).
3. Farm visits and industry internships.
4. Research projects with real-world applications.
You’ll gain hands-on experience alongside theoretical knowledge.
Agronomy graduates have diverse career opportunities, including:
1. Agronomist / Crop Consultant – Advising farmers on crop management.
2. Soil Scientist / Irrigation Specialist – Working in water and land conservation.
3. Agricultural Researcher – Conducting studies at universities or private firms.
4. Farm Manager / Agribusiness Analyst – Overseeing production or market strategies.
5. Government & NGO Roles – Policy development, food security, and sustainability projects.
The demand for agronomists is strong in South Africa and globally!
Yes!
The Department of Agronomy offers:
1. Part-time research assistant roles (helping with field trials or lab work).
2. Tutoring or mentoring positions for junior students.
3. Seasonal work (e.g., harvest data collection).
4. Bursary-linked internships with agricultural companies.
Check with the department or student support services for available opportunities.
Absolutely! Graduates can pursue:
1. Honours & MSc in Agronomy (research-based).
2. Postgraduate Diploma in Agronomy (applied focus).
3. PhD for advanced research in crop science, soil health, or sustainable agriculture.
Stellenbosch University has strong research programmes and industry collaborations.
Yes! The BScAgric from Stellenbosch University is internationally
recognised, particularly in:
1. Commonwealth countries (UK, Australia, Canada).
2. Europe (through research collaborations).
3. Africa (highly regarded in agricultural sectors).
Graduates work globally in research, agribusiness, and development organisations.