CAFRE students graduate with Master’s Degrees

Date published: 6 July 2026

The Master’s Degree programme is delivered by CAFRE and validated by Queen’s University Belfast. Students undertook the three-year, part-time programme at Loughry Campus, Cookstown, where they developed advanced knowledge and skills tailored to the agri-food and rural sectors.

Dr Victoria Murphy, Senior Lecturer at CAFRE, congratulated the graduates: “The commitment and determination you’ve shown throughout your studies really deserve to be recognised today. Graduation is a special milestone and a great opportunity to reflect on everything you’ve achieved with family and friends. I’ve no doubt that the knowledge and skills you’ve gained will open up new opportunities and support you as you progress in your career.”

Throughout the course, students completed six taught modules over two years of part-time study, attending one evening per week. Graduates then undertook an independent research project in their final year, exploring a topic of their choice in depth and presenting their findings in a final Master’s dissertation.

Course Lecturer Dr Holly Mullan highlighted the practical and professional focus of the programme: “The Master’s programme taught at Loughry is focused on helping students build their knowledge and confidence within the agri-food and wider sectors. Through practical learning, real case studies, industry engagement and research, students gain valuable skills in areas like project management, critical thinking, training and communication. Our aim is to support graduates to step into leadership roles confidently and make a positive impact within the sector. Well done to everyone graduating today.”

Congratulations to the Class of 2026, may your future be filled with continued success, innovation and impact in the agri-food and rural sectors.

CAFRE has announced a refreshed postgraduate programme designed to reflect the evolving needs of the agri-food sector. From September 2026, the MSc in Strategic Leadership for Agri- Food delivered at Loughry Campus, Cookstown, replaces the course previously known as the MSc in Business for Agri-Food and Rural Enterprise. The change reflects a stronger focus on leadership and the skills required to succeed in a fast-moving business environment.

If you have recently graduated with an Honours Degree, or know someone who has, applications are now open for the September 2026 intake. The course is delivered full-time over one calendar year or part-time over three years. Studying for a Master’s Degree at CAFRE offers an opportunity to gain specialist knowledge, build confidence, and enhance career prospects in a dynamic and vital sector.

To find out more about the programme, prospective students are invited to attend an online webinar on Wednesday 22 July 2026 at 1pm. To apply or register for the webinar, please email: Victoria.Murphy@daera-ni.gov.uk or explore full-time and part-time course options on the CAFRE website.