Diploma in Applied Agricultural Technology and Production Management (Level 6)

Applied Agricultural Technology and Production Management is a comprehensive field committed to utilizing advanced methodologies for the enhancement of agricultural productivity and management strategies. It integrates innovative techniques to optimize crop yields, improve livestock welfare, and streamline overall farm operations. Professionals in this domain amalgamate principles from agronomy, biology, engineering, and economics to tackle contemporary agricultural challenges, ranging from sustainable farming practices to the efficient utilization of resources.

The Diploma in Applied Agricultural Technology and Production Management (Level 6) marks the third year of the Bachelor’s Degree program in Applied Agricultural Technology and Production Management (Level 7), building upon the foundational knowledge acquired in previous studies. This diploma is finely tuned to cater to the evolving demands of the agricultural sector, imparting advanced skills and insights essential for thriving in diverse roles within the industry. Delivered by a blend of local experts and international practitioners, the curriculum emphasizes hands-on training and industry-specific competencies, nurturing graduates who exhibit adaptability, innovation, and entrepreneurial spirit in their agricultural endeavors.

Tailored for individuals driven by a passion for agricultural progress, the Diploma in Applied Agricultural Technology and Production Management offers a dynamic fusion of theoretical exploration and practical learning experiences. Graduates emerge equipped for a plethora of career opportunities in agriculture, ranging from farm management to consultancy in agricultural technology.

At Level 6, the program delves deeper into the intricacies of agricultural technology and production management, providing specialized knowledge and skills crucial for professional advancement in the field. Furthermore, it serves as a significant milestone for students aspiring to pursue further academic pursuits, including a Bachelor’s Degree in Applied Agricultural Technology and Production Management (Level 7), enabling them to hone their expertise and specialize in their chosen area of interest.

Who is this qualification for?

Professionals specializing in applied agricultural technology and production management play a pivotal role in today’s dynamic agricultural landscape characterized by continuous innovation and industry advancement. With agriculture maintaining its critical position in addressing global food demands, there is a growing need for adept individuals who can harness technology to optimize agricultural practices.

The Diploma in Applied Agricultural Technology and Production Management (Level 6) is tailored for individuals already immersed in or aspiring to join various sectors of agriculture, seeking to enhance their career trajectories and expertise in agricultural technology and production management. This program is ideally suited for those desiring specialized skills and a comprehensive understanding of agricultural technology to excel in their current roles or transition into more advanced career opportunities within the agricultural sector.

Whether you are actively involved in agricultural endeavors or are entering the field anew, this diploma curriculum offers a well-rounded mix of theoretical knowledge and practical training essential for success in diverse roles, including:

• Agricultural Operations Manager
• Agricultural Technology Consultant
• Crop Production Manager
• Livestock Production Manager
• Agricultural Equipment Manager
• Agricultural Research Manager
• Precision Agriculture Specialist
• Agricultural Extension Officer
• Advocate for Sustainable Agriculture
• Agricultural Product Quality Assurance Specialist

As technology and innovation continue to reshape the agricultural landscape, individuals equipped with expertise in applied agricultural technology and production management are poised to lead significant transformations in farming and food production. This diploma empowers learners with the requisite skills and knowledge to thrive in this dynamic industry, presenting promising career prospects and pathways for professional growth.

What makes this course special?

The Marvelous University of Technology and Applied Sciences (MUTAS) is one of the world’s most successful and best-preferred applied (hands-on) learning brand. The Marvelous University of Technology and Applied Sciences qualifications place greater emphasis on self-employment and employer engagement and work readiness. MUTAS-Zambia provides 70% practical and 30% theory teaching and learning methodologies coupled with various practical learning-focused activities that fully engage our students. MUTAS programs in Applied Agricultural Technology and Production Management are work-related qualifications for students taking their first steps into employment, or for those already in employment and seeking career development opportunities.

Why you must study with MUTAS?

At the Marvelous University of Technology and Applied Sciences (MUTAS), we know how important it is for career ambitious people to get the right education to start and further develop their careers.

With today’s industry and employers demanding so much more than just a qualification to contain the effects of global competition and to attain a competitive edge, here are the main six (6) reasons why you must choose to study at MUTAS:

Work Readiness

MUTAS courses will give you real hands on experience in pursuing your education. It is what is called learning by doing it or action learning. Based on a 70% practical (action learning, action research, projects, reflective thinking, critical thinking, etc.) and 30% theory teaching and learning and assessments methodologies, all the MUTAS students become work ready (prepared) during their first year of study and graduate with strong work ethics, analytical, problem solving, communication and entrepreneurial skills which are the major factors that employers are looking for in their new recruits.

Employability

MUTAS higher vocational, technical and professional courses prepare students for employment and self-employment. The MUTAS courses develop a student’s employability skills as they offer the experience of real-life practical tasks and work placements. MUTAS qualifications are generally well-regarded by employers as the courses enable students to develop useful hands-on skills in their respective fields of study and in critical areas such as problem-solving, time management, entrepreneurial, communication, work behavior, visionary and focus minded, team work, and project planning, execution to evaluation. The knowledge and skills you get from MUTAS programs will make you be sought after by employers locally and globally. MUTAS helps students to gain strong knowledge and skills that are essential to start and successfully run their own businesses and/or to be appreciated as competent and productive employees that every employer would like to hire.

Relevant

MUTAS courses are designed and developed with the help of employers, industrial experts, professional bodies, higher education experts, and lecturers. This keeps the MUTAS curriculum to be industry-driven and relevant for today’s and the future’s job market and self-employment. MUTAS qualifications provide students with industry-specific knowledge, skills, and competencies that make graduates’ work outputs to be relevant to their employers’ missions, visions, and goals.

Practical Teaching and Assessments

The MUTAS teaching and learning is based on the seven (7) major principles of teaching and learning through which theory knowledge is practically applied to various practical teaching and learning methods including action learning, projects supported by verifiable tangible evidences (outcomes), critical reflective thinking, case scenarios, job placements, industrial site visits, public lectures led by industrial experts, etc.

The assessment for MUTAS courses is largely based on regular coursework and work experience, which makes them an ideal option for those who crumble under the pressure of exams.

All the MUTAS programs are assessed through objective and rigor-based assignments and projects for which origination is examined through the Turnitin IT Application to ensure that each student submits his/her own true work. The outcome of these assignments must be in an implementable practical and quality standard.  

Career and Education Progression

Employers value MUTAS qualifications as the courses are industry-centered and directed. In other words, unlike academic programs, the MUTAS courses give students industry-specific knowledge and skills which makes them readily employable. This, combined with the problem-solving, time management, entrepreneurial, communication, work behavior, visionary and focus-minded, teamwork, and project planning skills they gained throughout their learning process give the MUTAS graduates a strong competitive edge to progress in senior job positions and to further pursue their postgraduate professional degrees such as Masters to Professional Doctorate Degree programs at various reputable higher education institutions/universities.

Reputation and Prestige

• The industry relevance, practicality, career-specific and quality of the MUTAS qualification will make you to stand out and visibly be seen and noticed in a cloud of many academically qualified graduates.
• As more employers expect their new employees to have relevant practical skills and competencies than costly academic knowledge, MUTAS makes your CV and profile stand out.
• MUTAS is known for stringent quality standards that govern the provision of its higher vocational, technical and professional courses. MUTAS is also known for its practical, relevant and Industry driven courses.
• The above values, compounded with the work ethics, entrepreneurial and problem-solving skills you will learn and practice while studying at MUTAS will grant you the respect, reputation and prestige within the industry sector you will work.

Qualification Purpose and Outcomes

Upon successful completion of the Diploma in Applied Agricultural Technology and Production Management (Level 6), students will acquire the following advanced skills and competencies:

• Conceptualize and develop intricate designs for agricultural technology systems with a focus on enhancing production efficiency and sustainability.
• Design and implement medium-scale agricultural technology systems tailored to address specific agricultural challenges and requirements.
• Analyze the potential impacts of component modifications within agricultural technology systems on overall functionality and performance, ensuring optimal outcomes.
• Utilize state-of-the-art laboratory facilities and advanced simulation tools to address complex issues in agricultural technology and production management effectively.
• Demonstrate proficient execution of engineering processes to manufacture agricultural products or provide services within collaborative team environments, ensuring high-quality outputs.
• Apply entrepreneurial principles and innovative thinking to establish and manage successful ventures in applied agricultural technology or related fields, fostering industry innovation and growth.
• Progress towards higher academic qualifications, including potential enrollment in the Bachelor’s Degree in Applied Agricultural Technology and Production Management (Level 7), to broaden their professional horizons and deepen their expertise in the agricultural engineering sector.

How will I learn?

The MUTAS tutors/lecturers are equipped with various traditional teaching methods which are all used to create and develop Vibrant, Skilled, Competent, and Work-prepared Entrepreneurial Technicians, Technologists, and Professionals.

The teaching and learning practices involve 70% practical and 30% theory methodologies by applying a wide range of action learning techniques stipulated in the course specification.

What does the course involve?

You will study a combination of theory, applied theory, and practical subjects across a broad range of units. To succeed, your effective time management and focus are both very critical. You will cover fourteen (14) units. For each unit, you will do a main test, assignment, and examination in addition to an integrated action project. These assessments do not include the informal tests, practical-based homework, presentations, projects, and assignments that your lecturers will require you to do in each learning outcome. To pass this applied qualification, it is critical that you constantly monitor, formalize yourself with, and operate alongside developments taking place within the Applied Agricultural Technology and Production Management field by regularly visiting different Agricultural-related projects and/or organizations, reading news and articles, etc.

Assessment Methods

The MUTAS programs are assessed using a combination of:

1. Informal Assessments
2. Formal Assessments

Informal assessments are conducted by lecturers on each covered component of the unit outcome to weigh knowledge created into his/her students so that necessary teaching practice adjustments can be made as appropriate.

Formal Assessments are further classified into two parts:

• Formal Continuous Assessments which comprise of:

1. Major Test
2. An Integrated Action Project

• Formal Final Assessments which comprise of:

1. Major Examination
2. Unit Assignments

What are the Career Progression Opportunities?

Graduates who have successfully completed the Diploma in Applied Agricultural Technology and Production Management (Level 6) open up a multitude of pathways for career advancement. They possess the option to further their education by enrolling in advanced programs, such as the Bachelor’s Degree in Applied Agricultural Technology and Production Management (Level 7). Moreover, they are primed to excel in a diverse array of job roles within the agricultural technology and production management sector.

Agricultural Systems Strategist

Analyzing data and devising strategies to optimize agricultural systems for enhanced efficiency and sustainability.

Agribusiness Innovation Specialist

Driving innovation and growth in agricultural businesses through strategic development and market insights.

Irrigation Efficiency Consultant

Designing and implementing cutting-edge irrigation systems to maximize water usage efficiency and crop yields.

Agricultural Technology Educator

Providing training and educational programs on the utilization of advanced agricultural technologies to farmers and industry professionals.

Supply Chain Optimization Manager

Overseeing the smooth flow of agricultural products from farm to market, ensuring efficient logistics and quality assurance.

Environmental Sustainability Advisor

Promoting environmentally friendly practices and ensuring compliance with sustainability standards within agricultural operations.

Agricultural Policy Analyst

Researching and evaluating agricultural policies and regulations to influence decision-making and advocate for industry interests.

Food Safety Assurance Specialist

Conducting thorough inspections and audits to maintain compliance with food safety regulations across the food production chain.

Agronomic Consultant

Offering expert advice on crop management techniques, soil health optimization, and pest control strategies to enhance agricultural productivity and sustainability.

Agricultural Market Development Manager

Formulating and executing marketing strategies to boost the visibility and sales of agricultural products in various markets.

These career opportunities may vary in their scope and prerequisites depending on the specific sector, geographic location, and employer requirements. Nonetheless, a diploma in Applied Agricultural Technology and Production Management (Level 6) lays a solid groundwork for entering diverse segments of the agricultural industry and pursuing fulfilling careers in agricultural technology and production management.

What are Articulation Opportunities?

The credit transfers from other programs offered by other institutions or other MUTAS programs will be dealt with according to MUTAS rules and regulations on Recognition of Prior Learning. Provided that an applicant has qualification accredited by NQA and verifiable through the NQF, the MUTAS rules provide for course by course credits as well as credit transfer by volume under certain conditions. Maximum credits that can be granted from none technical (hands-on) programs are 15% of the credits for a qualification. Maximum credits that can be granted from the technical (hands-on) programs of similar standards with those of MUTAS are 50% of the credits for a qualification.

What career opportunities can this lead to?

The Diploma in Applied Agricultural Technology and Production Management (Level 6) opens doors to a myriad of rewarding career pathways within the agricultural domain. Serving as an ideal qualification for individuals seeking to refine specialized skills and establish a solid foundation in applied agricultural technology and production management, this diploma program equips graduates for various roles including:

Intermediate Agricultural Machinery Technician

Supporting the maintenance and repair of agricultural machinery and equipment.

Intermediate Precision Agriculture Specialist

Assisting in the implementation and management of precision agriculture systems and technologies.

Intermediate Crop Production Manager

Overseeing aspects of crop cultivation, including planting, harvesting, and pest management.

Intermediate Livestock Management Technician

Contributing to the care and management of livestock, ensuring their health and welfare.

Intermediate Agricultural Research Assistant

Assisting in research projects focused on improving agricultural practices and technologies.

Intermediate Farm Operations Supervisor

Managing day-to-day farm operations, including labor management and resource allocation.

Intermediate Agricultural Technology Sales Representative

Promoting and selling agricultural technologies and equipment to farmers and agricultural businesses.

Intermediate Sustainable Agriculture Advocate

Advocating for sustainable farming practices and environmental conservation within the agricultural community.

Intermediate Agricultural Extension Officer

Providing educational resources and support to farmers to enhance their agricultural practices and productivity.

Intermediate Agricultural Product Quality Assurance Technician

Ensuring the quality and safety of agricultural products through inspection and quality control measures.

These roles present opportunities for career growth and advancement in the agricultural industry, enabling individuals to make significant contributions to sustainable food production and agricultural development.

What are the Fees?

Our fees include:

• Application/Registration Fees
• Tuition Fees
• Other Fees include Laboratory Fees, Study Manuals, industrial site tours, action research, etc. (where and if applicable).

For more information about our fees, please contact any of our Call Centre at any of our Campuses or the Marketing and Public Relationships Department.

Funding Opportunities

There are many funding options for the MUTAS accredited programs. Most of our students have over the past years been funded by their employers while others finance their studies on their own. Students can also apply for bursaries with The Ministry of Community Development and Social Services via the CDF Skills Development Bursary sponsorship. MUTAS also provides scholarships and bursaries to students who meet requirements as stipulated in our annual prospectus.

Withdrawal/Cancellation

Any cancellations/withdraw or refunds are executed as per the MUTAS policies. For more details, refer to the Students Registration Agreement and the Withdraw Policy.

The Diploma in Applied Agricultural Technology and Production Management (Level 6) is made up of fourteen units. It is structured to be studied for one year through Face-to-Face Full-Time, Face-to-Face Part-Time, and Distance Learning combined with Two (2) week-end Face-to-Face sessions per month, and Two (2) Block Weeks Face-to-Face sessions per Semester, Blended Learning and Virtual (On-Line) Learning (excluding Engineering Programmes).

Total Unit/Modules

The following is a compressive list of course units/modules you will cover in this program:

Diploma in Applied Agricultural Technology and Production Management (Level 6)

• AATPM301 Advanced Agricultural Biotechnology and Genetics
• AATPM302 Climate-smart Agriculture Strategies
• AATPM303 Farm Machinery Automation and Optimization
• AATPM304 Precision Livestock Management Systems
• AATPM305 Sustainable Resource Utilization in Agriculture
• AATPM306 Advanced Crop Health Monitoring and Management
• AATPM307 Supply Chain Management in Agriculture
• AATPM308 Agricultural Policy and Regulatory Compliance
• AATPM309 Innovation and Entrepreneurship in Agri-Tech
• 1STU301 Ethics, Corporate Governance and Business Law
• 1STU302  Applied Entrepreneurship and Intrapreneurship
• 1STU303  Customer Relationship Management
• 1STU304  Action Research Methodology
• 1STU305  Specialized Industrial Related Work Experience

Work placement/experience requirements

Mandatory work placement/experience elements are required for the Diploma in Applied Agricultural Technology and Production Management (Level 6), students are encouraged to apply theoretical knowledge through practical learning activities outlined in the qualification specification. This hands-on approach allows students to gain valuable experience and apply learned theories in real-world agricultural settings, enhancing their understanding and skillset in agricultural technology and production management.

Completion of Study Enrolment Form

Download and complete the Student’s Enrolment Agreement (SEA) form or obtain one from our Call Centre at any of our Campuses, print and complete it and submit it with proof of payment for the stipulated registration fees together to any of our Campuses before the stipulated application deadlines to avoid paying late application/registration fees. To be considered for approval, the completed enrolment agreement form must be accompanied by certified copies of documents as stipulated on the Student’s Enrolment Agreement (SEA) form.

Applicant must ensure that:

• The enrolment agreement form is properly and fully completed and that each page is initialed and signed;
• He/she provides all the required documentation such as certified copies of qualifications, Identity Card/Passport photos, Supporting letters from employers,
• He/she deposit registration fees into the respective Campus’ Bank Account provided on the enrolment agreement form and submits the original copy of the deposit as proof before being issued with an official receipt
• He/she is issued with an official Institutional Receipt, stamped with Official Company Stamp, and Signed by the Head of Call Centre for every payment made to MUTAS.
• Please note that MUTAS does not receive cash payments,
• He/she obtains a written acknowledge letter confirming that his/her completed enrolment agreement form has been received
• He/she obtains the status of his/her application for studies within 30 working days.
• If admitted, an Admission letter issued by the Admissions section in the Office of the Registrar is obtained through the respective campus together with the timetable, program specifications, syllabuses, student’s details of student’s portal, student’s handbook, and rules and regulations, student card, and any other information.

When can I apply?

MUTAS has a whole year circle of accepting new applications from students from all over the world. However, please take note that applications for the First Semester which starts in January/February each year are only considered up to March of each year. This period includes late registration. Unsuccessful applications for First Semester and applications that are received late are considered for the Second Semester which starts in July each year.

The following are two (2) annual teaching and learning intakes for students to register to study on this program at MUTAS:

• January/February – June
• June/July – November

Applications must be made in time to avoid late registration fees and to be disappointed if spaces are allocated to earlier applicants.

The Marvelous University of Technology and Applied Sciences (MUTAS) Undergraduate Admission Requirements

The Marvelous University of Technology and Applied Sciences (MUTAS) Admission requirement for all the technical and professional undergraduate and postgraduate Certificate, Diploma, and Degree Programmes are updated each year. Consequently, the below list presents the general requirements for the general guidance only. For the updated specific admission requirements, refer to the Application Form, brochures and prospectus.

Applicants must meet any of the following Minimum entry requirements:

• Five (5) credits at ‘O’ Level including English and Mathematics or,
• Any recognized related qualification at or equivalent to NQF Level 3 or better with total credit value as required by the MUTAS/NIT policy/regulation.
• Applicants with Credit (Grade 6) at ordinary ‘O’ level including in Mathematics and English may be accepted provided that they have passed an Aptitude Test with a Minimum of 60%.
• Mature age entry provided that applicant:
• is 23 years old or over at a time of making the application;
• has at least five (5) years’ work experience in a related field and provides acceptable reference from a reputable respective employing organization;
• has at least passed grade 10 which must include a credit or better in English and
• must pass an Aptitude test with a minimum of 60%

OR

• is 23 years old or over at a time of making the application;
• has at least three (3) years’ work experience in a related field and provides acceptable reference from a reputable respective employing organization;
• has at least passed grade 11 or 12) which must include a credit or better in English and
• must pass an Aptitude test with a minimum of 60%.

The Marvelous University of Technology and Applied Sciences (MUTAS) Postgraduate Admission Requirements

Entry requirements for a Master’s Degree Programme

Applicants must have a 1st degree in a relevant field from a recognized University or full professional qualification such as ACCA, CIM, CIMA, CIPS, CILT, etc.

Entry requirements for a Professional Doctorate or PhD Degree Programme

Applicants must be holders of Master’s degree or any other related programs from a recognized University. At least 5 years of significant experience working at senior level within an organisation or as a consultant.

International applicants must have a minimum of five (5) General Certificate of Education (GCSEs) at an ordinary level or their equivalent including passes in Maths and English

Resources for Prospecting Students

• Qualifications Brochure
• Prospectus
• Online Application
• Application Form

Resources for Registered Students

• Students Handbook
• Institutional Calendar
• Learning and Assessments Policies
• Qualifications Specifications
• Assessments Schedules
• Recorded Lessons’ Presentations 
• Virtual Classrooms
• Virtual Library
• Virtual Laboratories
• Study Manuals and Books