CAFRE has announced a new taught MSc in Strategic Leadership for Agri-Food, set to begin in September 2026. The programme will be delivered at CAFRE’s Loughry Campus and awarded by Queen’s University Belfast.

The full-time route takes one calendar year, while a part-time option involves evening classes one night a week, allowing professionals to study alongside employment.

Dr Victoria Murphy, Senior Lecturer at CAFRE, stated that the programme reflects an ongoing commitment to preparing graduates for challenges in the agri-food and rural sectors. She said it aims to develop confident individuals who can contribute meaningfully to their organisations.

Dr Katerina Theodoridou, Programme Director at QUB, noted that the university is dedicated to supporting future leaders in agri-food. She highlighted that the programme combines academic rigour with industry insight to provide strategic capabilities employers seek.

The course was shaped through engagement with industry to align with employer needs, with a focus on communication, managing change, and developing people. While rooted in agri-food, the skills are deemed transferable across other industries.

Applicants require at least a 2.2 honours degree in any subject area. The part-time fee is set at £985 per year, subject to review. Applications are open until 31 July.

An information webinar will take place on Wednesday 22 July at 1pm for prospective students to hear from staff and graduates about the course and career progression opportunities.