Subject Group: Science
These subjects demonstrate how to explore nature using carefully planned methods, and teach the basic methods and findings of scientific investigation.
Agricultural science is the study of the science and technology underlying the principles and practices of agriculture. It aims to develop knowledge, skills and attitudes concerning the factors that affect the long-term well-being of agricultural resources, and places emphasis on the managed use of these resources
Third Level Entry Requirements This subject is not an essential requirement for any courses in the CAO system.
Subject Content The course consists of the study of a variety of aspects of agriculture under the following headings:
Soils
The general structure and function of plants
Farm crops - cereal and roots
Farm crops - grassland
Trees and shelter
Structure and function of the animal body
The cow, the sheep, horse, and pig
Farm buildings (fro school assessment only)
Farm-house environment (for school assessment only)
Exam Structure The examination in Agricultural Science consist of (a) a terminal examination paper and (b) an assessment of the work of the candidate during the course under the headings: identification of plant and animal types associated with agriculture; practical experience with crops, livestock, house and farmyard layouts; investigations carried out related to ecology, soil science, animal physiology, plant physiology, genetics and microbiology.
Data Sources: The information on these pages has been compiled from a variety of sources including the NCCA, Newbridge College / Brian Howard, Dept. of Education & Skills, and student interviews. Information in the 'People who took this subject' section reflects the views of those people interviewed on this website and is offered as informal and potentially useful information only.
While CareersPortal.ie attempts to keep this information as up to date and accurate as possible, we do not accept any responsibility for the accuracy of this information or decisions made on the basis of this information. Students should always discuss subject options with parents / guardians / guidance counsellors..
All the subjects I choose had a practical aspect to them,e.g. Woodwork, Metalwork, Technical graphics and of course the usuals. I suppose looking back on it I was always working with my hands and that's what I enjoyed.
The likes of Woodwork and Metalwork are skills which are used every day when out in the yard or down the back of a field fixing a broken machine. If I went back to pick better subjects I probably would have added Agricultural Science into the bunch, but other than that I'd stick with the same.
I always knew I wanted some form of a technical or design job so I took the following subjects for leaving cert; (Maths, English, Irish - because you have to) Physics, Engineering, Building Construction & Agricultural Science. I believe these subjects have all helped me throughout my college days as they gave a great basis of what is taught in college.
Generally I chose well & wouldn't change my choices. I started off studying Agricultural Science & Engineering for the Leaving Cert. which were both a help.
I attended Pallaskenry & Kildalton Agricultural colleges on route to completing the A.C.F.M. Course.
I also completed various stints of work placements.
I did English, Irish and Maths, and then Geography, Agricultural science and Construction studies. Studying Construction studies definitely influenced my career path, I loved the subject and it helped that I had a great teacher also.
It helps you to become a more practical minded person, and you get good at working with your hands. I always knew I’d go on and work in something in the construction back ground round when I started studying construction studies.
Agricultural Science - I really enjoyed it and it gave me a good understanding of the basics in agriculture. Technical Drawing and Construction Studies - I enjoyed the hands on building as well as the planning and design aspect which has assisted me in planning and building my farm yard from the parlour, sheds, workshops and even my new house.
If I could go back in time I think I would of taken Business Studies to give me a better grasp of the financial aspects that are involve in my farming business.
