Bachelor of Science in Agriculture in Agribusiness Management
Agriculture and Nature Conservation - Primary Agriculture
Purpose and Rationale
Bachelor of Science in Agriculture (Agribusiness Management) - Program Overview
Purpose
The Bachelor of Science in Agriculture (BSc Agric) (AGBM) program aims to equip learners with the necessary knowledge to operate commercial farming enterprises and contribute significantly to both public and private sectors of the economy. Graduates will be capable of providing advice to farmers, managing agriculture divisions, and generating knowledge in agribusiness management. The program combines theoretical and practical knowledge from various disciplines in agriculture, business management, and fundamental sciences to develop critical skills required for success in the field.
Rationale
The program responds to the growing demand for skilled agribusiness managers in the agricultural industry in South Africa. It aligns with national agricultural programs such as AgriBEE and Land Reforms, supporting the transformation of the agricultural sector. Strategic documents like the Strategic Plan for South African Agriculture (2005) and the Government White Paper on Agriculture (1995) emphasize the need for skilled professionals in agriculture. In the Limpopo province, the Provincial Growth and Development Strategy (PGDS) highlights the importance of skills development in agriculture and agribusiness to drive economic growth.
The curriculum addresses the need for trained professionals to manage medium to large-scale commercial farms, implement modern agribusiness techniques, and support emerging farmers and agribusiness entrepreneurs. With a focus on farm and agribusiness management, agricultural marketing, policy analysis, and financial management, the program aims to produce graduates equipped to meet the demands of the evolving agricultural landscape in South Africa.
As land ownership shifts and new beneficiaries enter the agricultural sector with varying levels of experience, the program prepares students to excel in farm management and strategic decision-making. By emphasizing managerial skills alongside technical agricultural knowledge, the program seeks to empower farmers to make informed choices and capitalize on market opportunities.
Conclusion
The Bachelor of Science in Agriculture (Agribusiness Management) program is designed to nurture a new generation of skilled agribusiness managers who will drive the future of South African agriculture. By equipping students with comprehensive knowledge and practical skills in farm management, economics, and agribusiness, the program aims to support sustainable agricultural practices, empower emerging farmers, and enhance the competitiveness of local farms in the global market. Graduates of this program are poised to make a significant impact on the agricultural industry and contribute to the economic growth and development of South Africa.
Outcomes
- Provide leadership in farming planning, financing and general management of operations in the various subsectors.
- Integrate all aspects that constitute theoretical knowledge and successfully complete a research in agricultural economy and allied disciplines.
- Solve problems affecting agribusiness sector through various skills obtained from engagement sessions.
- Exhibit detailed knowledge and understanding of a range of discipline-specific theories, and comprehension of the interactions between agricultural economics and the agricultural environment and the multidisciplinary nature of problems of farm management and extension.
- Implement an integrated, sustainable agri-business management plan by applying business principles through utilising agricultural, financial, marketing and production-conversion information.
Assessment Criteria
Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:
- Familiarisation with farming operations demonstrated: Identify various farming operations such as total farm size, sizes of land under various crops and/or livestock, lists and valuation of various farm equipments or assets.
- Completion of financial statements: Complete income expenditure statements and balance sheets.
- Display high level of ethical conduct: Engage with stakeholders ethically, especially concerning assessing, processing, producing, and communicating information.
Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:
- Demonstrated ability to undertake research and write reports: Undertake and assess experiential training work, submit a portfolio of evidence.
- Display logical methodologies and procedures: Explain complex challenges facing the agribusiness sector coherently and understandably.
- Apply learning strategies: Assume responsibility for all consequences from engagements.
- Practical applications: Carry out and implement with the participation of farming communities.
- Design research on training in agricultural economics: Complete projects based on the research and submit scientifically acceptable reports.
Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:
- Identify, analyze, and address problems systematically: Utilize theory and practical skills gained from qualification.
- Understand the complex and uncertain environment: Select best strategies for positive farming outcomes.
Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:
- Explain principles of agricultural economics comprehensively to supervisors.
- Apply skills and management techniques in the agricultural economy.
- Consider limitations and potential of the agricultural sector: Empower managers in private enterprises and government sectors.
- Detect, analyze, and solve problems relating to agricultural economics and management.
- Identify and explore entrepreneurial skills: Grasp opportunities in the agro-commercial environment.
Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5:
- Exploit opportunities for improving the economy in previously disadvantaged communities: Leading to an improvement in the quality of life.
- Integrate sustainable agricultural systems into planning and management processes: For entrepreneurial and enterprise activities.
- Develop an agri-business management plan: Includes input for production, processing, and value-adding processes.
- Develop and implement a plan for food safety and quality practices: In an agricultural supply chain.
- Integrate marketing and distribution component: As part of the total agri-business.
Integrated Assessment:
- Minimum of two tests and two assignments for most modules.
- Internal moderation for first and second-year modules, external moderation for third and fourth-year modules.
Formative Assessment:
- Consists of tests, assignments, and projects during the semester.
- Feedback provided during the semester.
- Minimum of 40% required in formative assessments to sit for the examination.
Summative Assessment:
- Consists of examinations for most modules.
- Research project involves submission of a mini-dissertation.
Qualification Details
- Type
- National First Degree(Min 480)
- NQF Level
- 08
- Min. Credits
- 491
- SAQA Source
- More Information
Education Cost Calculator
This page includes information from the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) . Builtneat Pty Ltd trading as Study Start, has modified all or some of this information. SAQA has not approved, endorsed, or tested these modifications.