Tertiary degree · Level 8 · Agriculture & Horticulture

BAgrSc (Hons) in Agricultural Science starting in Dunboyne

A five-year route into agricultural science. You do a Level 5 Laboratory Techniques year at Dunboyne, then four years at UCD with a choice of specialisations. It suits science-minded students interested in farming, food and the environment.

How tertiary degrees work: you apply directly to the further education college, not through the CAO, and you don't need CAO points. You start in the further education college and then move on to the university or technological university to finish the full degree. Applications usually open early in the year; 2026 closing dates ranged from March to May.

Key facts

How long
5 years (Year 1 at Dunboyne College, Years 2-5 at UCD)
Award
BAgrSc (Hons) in Agricultural Science (UCD)
Where you study
  • Year 1: Dunboyne College of FET, Co. Meath → Years 2–5: University College Dublin

Entry requirements

  • Aged 17 or older by 31 December of the entry year
  • Completed Leaving Cert, LCVP, Leaving Cert Applied or a QQI Level 4 Major Award
  • 100–200 word personal statement
  • Interview
  • English: B2 (CEFR) if not first language
  • Non-EU/EEA applicants must already live in Ireland with Stamp 4 or above
  • To progress to UCD: full QQI Level 5 Laboratory Techniques (5M3807) with at least 5 Distinctions, including Maths and two of Biology, Chemistry or Physics

How to apply

2027 application link not yet published – check the NTO page. Apply directly to the college, not through the CAO. Apply directly to Dunboyne College of FET (not through the CAO). Check the college website for the application process.

Dunboyne College of FET ↗ Official page on nto.hea.ie ↗

What you'll learn

  • Laboratory skills, biology, chemistry and physics
  • Animal anatomy and physiology
  • Mandatory work placement and farm and industry visits in Year 1
  • Agri-tech such as drones, lidar and automation (AMTCE access)
  • A chosen specialisation, from eleven options, in Years 3–5

Where it can lead

  • Agriculture and forestry
  • Food and agribusiness
  • Horticulture
  • Environmental services
  • Health and business roles

Useful Leaving Cert subjects

Agricultural Science, Biology, Chemistry, Physics

These help with the content of the programme; they are not entry requirements unless listed above.

Apprenticeships in Agriculture

Not sure which route suits you?

Our CAO Interest Test matches you to course areas, and now shows apprenticeships and tertiary degrees in your strongest areas too.

Take the CAO Interest Test → Try the free 3-minute test

Information from the National Tertiary Office (nto.ie), checked November 2026. Details can change, so always confirm on the official page before applying.