CAFRE launches new Master’s degree
Date published:
The College of Agriculture, Food and Rural Enterprise (CAFRE) has refreshed its postgraduate programme to reflect the evolving needs of the agri-food sector.
From September 2026, a new taught MSc in Strategic Leadership for Agri-Food will be offered by CAFRE. The course will provide a stronger focus on leadership and the skills required to succeed in a fast-moving business environment. It has been shaped through close engagement with industry to ensure it is relevant and aligned with employer needs.
Delivered at CAFRE’s Loughry Campus and awarded by Queen’s University Belfast (QUB), the Master’s programme combines academic learning with real world application. Students are encouraged to apply their learning to the agri-food industry, supported by a focus on communication, managing change and developing people.
Dr Victoria Murphy, Senior Lecturer at CAFRE, explained: “The new programme reflects a continued commitment to preparing graduates for the challenges and opportunities within the agri-food and rural sectors. The course is designed to develop confident and capable individuals who can make a meaningful contribution within their organisations.”
The programme is suitable for a wide range of learners appealing to both recent graduates looking to enhance their career prospects, and to professionals already working in the sector who wish to strengthen their leadership skills. The full-time option allows students to complete their Master’s within one calendar year, whilst the part-time route offers flexibility to study alongside full-time employment through evening classes one night a week.
Dr Katerina Theodoridou, Programme Director at QUB explained ''Queen’s University Belfast is committed to supporting the development of future leaders for the agri‑food sector. This new programme brings together academic excellence and industry insight to equip learners with the strategic capabilities employers are asking for. By combining conceptual understanding with real‑world application, the programme prepares confident professionals ready to influence and drive progress across the agri‑food value chain''
Join us online for an Information Webinar on Wednesday 22 July at 1:00 pm to hear from staff about the course modules and MSc graduates on how postgraduate study has helped their career progression.
While rooted in the agri-food sector, the skills developed throughout the programme are fully transferable across a wide range of industries. With its updated focus and flexible structure, the MSc in Strategic Leadership for Agri-Food offers a practical and relevant opportunity for those looking to take the next step in their career.
Applicants should normally possess a 2.2 Honours degree or above with degrees accepted from a wide range of subject areas. The programme is competitively priced at £985 (subject to review) per year for part-time study and applications are open until 31st July, so don’t delay, make your application now.
Join us online at our Information Webinar on Wednesday 22 July at 13:00, for the opportunity to learn more about the programme and meet the postgraduate team. To obtain the access link or to discuss postgraduate study, contact Dr Victoria Murphy at: Victoria.Murphy@daera-ni.gov.uk
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