How to become an agronomist
You can get into this job through:
- a university course
- a college course
- an apprenticeship
- specialist courses run by professional bodies
University
You'll usually need qualifications relevant to agriculture like a HNC, foundation degree or degree in subjects like:
- agriculture
- biology
- crop and plant science
- ecology
- environmental science
Some employers may also look for relevant postgraduate qualifications in subjects like:
- soil science
- genetics
- crop technology
With a degree or postgraduate qualifications you can apply for a graduate training scheme. You may find opportunities with:
- independent consultancies
- companies selling agro-chemicals, seed or fertiliser products
- land and farming charities
- government departments
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- at least 1 A level, or equivalent, for a foundation degree
- 2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree
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College
You could gain relevant skills and knowledge from a course like a Level 3 Extended Diploma in Agriculture.
With experience, this may help you work towards an agronomy and professional adviser apprenticeship.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, for a level 3 course
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Apprenticeship
You could get into this role through an agriculture professional adviser higher apprenticeship. When you're on this apprenticeship, you'll need to follow the agronomy and professional adviser pathway.
Entry requirements
Most people following this route have:
- 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) and A levels, or equivalent, for a higher or degree apprenticeship
- experience in related work
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Other Routes
You could study for the BASIS Foundation Award in Agronomy if you're new to the industry and have limited crop experience and knowledge. This will give you an introduction to agronomy, crop protection and crop nutrition.
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Career tips
You'll need lots of experience of working on farms as you need a thorough understanding of agriculture.
Professional and industry bodies
For professional recognition and training opportunities you could join the Association of Independent Crop Consultants or BASIS.
Further information
You can find out more about how to become an agronomist from Tasty Careers.