Before seeing the headline, you might assume that something related to technology would be the fastest growing subject. After all, technology is a high-demand area providing flexible skills and a broad scope of employment opportunities. According to a recent report, it’s agriculture. Students of today are signing up to be a part of our food production and food security.
The degree is proving itself to be a diverse and interesting subject.
The Figures
Against all expectation, applications to study agriculture and associated subjects rose by nearly 5% this academic year compared to the last. The report came from Elizabeth Truss, the government’s present Environment Minister. It’s likely to continue to be important as the world adapts to climate change and seeks new methods of food and crop production in line with international regulation. The desire to farm ethically has never been stronger and students are leading the way.
Not Just About Farming
Contrary to popular belief, the term “agriculture” includes more than just farming. Agriculture is big business, whether working on a small local farm or a large network of farms that supply our supermarkets. Graduates can be involved in marketing and PR for suppliers, in food technology research, in an advisory capacity to buyers and farmers and much more. Joe Parry, The Agricultural Student of the Year for 2015, studied Agri-food and Rural Studies and has a background in agriculture – he was born and grew up on a farm.
The Next Skills Shortage?
The prestigious BBC show dedicated to the countryside “Countryfile” recently highlighted a critical lack of young people entering into agriculture, particularly into farming. Despite the increase mentioned above, we need some 60,000 young people every year to choose farming as a career. The 4.6% rise is simply not enough at present and needs to be increased over the coming years. Agriculture degrees are useful for higher-level jobs, but we also need more farmers working at ground level.
An Environmental Science?
Modern farming is as much an environmental science today as food production; we can expect to see great changes as we adapt to environmental regulations on farming production. We will need more food for a growing population and prepare for climate change mitigation. This will mean that the farmers of the future can expect to face some considerable challenges in terms of legislation, technology, consumer demand and much more. What may put people off at present are stories in the media stating that farmers rely on subsidies and are struggling to survive. Although this is true for some in a volatile market, it is not true for all.
One thing is clear, we will always need a food supply.