Discover the best UK universities for Agriculture in 2026. Our rankings blend teaching quality, student satisfaction, and practical experience to help you grow your future.
Best Universities for Agriculture: Unifresher Student Rankings 2026
The top universities earn Gold, Silver, and Bronze badges based on student satisfaction, graduate employability, teaching quality, and value for money. For full details, see our Ranking Methodology below.
| Rank | University | Academic | Social |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Gold | University of Aberdeen | 91 | 84 |
| 2 Silver | University of Reading | 89 | 80 |
| 3 Bronze | University of Newcastle | 88 | 85 |
| 4 | University of Leeds | 87 | 73 |
| 5 | University of Bristol | 86 | 85 |
| 6 | University of Edinburgh | 88 | 79 |
| 7 | University of Nottingham | 85 | 74 |
| 8 | Harper Adams University | 82 | 70 |
| 9 | University of Exeter | 84 | 76 |
| 10 | University of Glasgow | 85 | 81 |
1. University of Aberdeen Gold
2. University of Reading Silver
3. Newcastle University Bronze
4. University of Leeds
5. University of Bristol
6. University of Edinburgh
7. University of Nottingham
8. Harper Adams University
9. University of Exeter
10. University of Glasgow
How We Ranked These Universities
Our Agriculture rankings combine trusted academic data with student lifestyle factors to reflect what really matters to students.
- Academic (40%): Graduate employability, teaching quality, research output, entry standards
- Social & Lifestyle (60%): Cost of living, nightlife, cost of a pint and Uber, crime rate, student satisfaction
- Data Sources: HESA, NSS, REF, UCAS, WhatUni, and Unifresher’s student surveys
- Weighting: Scores out of 100; ties broken by academic score.
Top-Ranked Agriculture Universities in the UK
The UK has a proud tradition of agricultural innovation — and its universities continue to lead the way in sustainable farming, food systems, and environmental science. Our 2025 rankings showcase the best UK universities for Agriculture, combining hands-on learning, research excellence, and strong graduate employability.
University of Aberdeen
Aberdeen stands out for its agricultural research and close industry partnerships. Students gain practical experience in sustainable food production and farm management while benefiting from strong employability support. The university’s research in soil health and climate resilience helps prepare graduates for the future of global agriculture.
University of Reading
Reading is internationally recognised for its expertise in crop science, sustainability, and environmental policy. Its Agriculture courses offer practical fieldwork and placements, supported by the university’s on-campus farm. Students also benefit from its strong links with agribusinesses and research institutions across the UK and Europe.
Newcastle University
Newcastle combines cutting-edge agricultural research with modern campus facilities and a strong community feel. Students explore areas like food systems, sustainable livestock management, and agri-technology innovation. The city’s affordability and friendly atmosphere make it a great all-round choice for agriculture students.
University of Exeter
Exeter’s Agriculture and Environmental Science degrees have a strong focus on sustainability and climate impact. High student satisfaction, access to fieldwork opportunities, and a collaborative teaching approach make Exeter a top destination for students passionate about the environment and the future of farming.
University of Glasgow
Glasgow offers a research-driven agriculture programme with strengths in sustainability, biotechnology, and environmental policy. The city’s affordability and excellent student support services make it a welcoming choice, while graduates benefit from strong employability and postgraduate research opportunities.
University of Leeds
Leeds provides a well-rounded education in agriculture with a strong mix of academic quality, social life, and employability. Students gain insight into agricultural economics, food supply chains, and sustainability — key skills for shaping future farming practices and global food systems.
Royal Agricultural University (RAU)
As a specialist institution, RAU offers an immersive and practical approach to agricultural education. Students get hands-on farming experience, access to cutting-edge agri-tech, and strong links with employers across the UK’s food and farming industries. Its small class sizes and tailored career support make it ideal for those seeking a focused agricultural career path.
University of Nottingham
Nottingham combines teaching excellence with a strong research focus on agricultural sustainability and food security. The university’s close partnerships with agri-tech companies and government research bodies offer students valuable networking and placement opportunities. It’s also one of the best-value Russell Group options for agriculture students.
University of Lincoln
Lincoln has rapidly grown its reputation for innovation in agri-business and environmental sustainability. Students benefit from close ties with local and national farming industries, as well as opportunities to work on projects tackling real-world environmental challenges. The city’s affordability makes Lincoln a smart choice for practical, career-focused students.
University of Bristol
Bristol’s Agriculture programmes are research-intensive with an emphasis on sustainable farming, climate change, and food production systems. Students can access excellent fieldwork opportunities and sustainability initiatives, while the university’s strong employer reputation enhances graduate outcomes.
Career Prospects After an Agriculture Degree
An Agriculture degree opens up diverse career paths across farming, environmental consultancy, food production, and agricultural policy. Graduates from leading UK universities often move into roles with government agencies, agribusinesses, and sustainability organisations. For a broader view of top-performing institutions, visit our overall UK university rankings or explore related degrees such as Environmental Science.
Entry Requirements for Agriculture Courses
Typical UCAS entry requirements range from 110–140 points (BBC–AAB), depending on the university. Strong backgrounds in Biology, Chemistry, or Geography are advantageous, and some universities offer foundation routes for students without science A-levels. Check our course matching guide for tips on choosing the right option for your predicted grades.
Most Affordable Cities for Agriculture Students
Aberdeen, Lincoln, and Newcastle rank among the most affordable cities for Agriculture students, offering lower rent, great student amenities, and strong community support. Remember to factor in travel, housing, and food costs when comparing locations for your degree.
Best Universities for Nightlife and Student Life
For a great social experience, Leeds and Nottingham stand out with vibrant nightlife and active student unions. Joining societies focused on farming, sustainability, or rural enterprise can help you build friendships and valuable connections within the agricultural community.
Student Wellbeing and Academic Support
Top universities such as Exeter, Glasgow, and Reading score highly for student wellbeing, mental health support, and personal tutoring. Choosing a university with a strong pastoral network can make a big difference during a demanding degree like Agriculture.
Considering Alternatives to Agriculture?
If you’re interested in related fields, explore degrees in Biology, Environmental Science, or Biotechnology. These courses develop similar scientific and analytical skills while leading to careers in research, sustainability, or environmental management.
Summary: Which Agriculture University Is Right for You?
When deciding where to study Agriculture, consider what matters most — hands-on learning, research opportunities, cost of living, or sustainability focus. Reading and Nottingham excel in teaching and research, while RAU and Lincoln offer practical, industry-focused learning. Use this guide to shortlist your top options and find the ideal environment to grow your career in agriculture.
FAQs on the Best UK Universities for Agriculture
Leading UK universities for Agriculture include the University of Reading, Harper Adams University, and the University of Exeter, known for practical learning and strong industry links.
The University of Reading often ranks highest for Agriculture, thanks to its expert faculty, research output, and hands-on farm facilities.
Yes, Agriculture degrees offer strong career prospects in farming, agribusiness, environmental management, and food security, with good student satisfaction.
Common requirements include Biology and Chemistry, with some courses also recommending Maths or Geography. Check university pages for specific entry details.
Graduates work in farming management, agricultural consultancy, environmental agencies, food production, and rural development.
Demand remains steady, especially for graduates with skills in sustainable farming, technology, and environmental impact management.
Starting salaries typically range between £18,000 and £26,000, increasing with experience and specialist roles in agribusiness and consultancy.
Balancing practical farm work with academic study can be challenging but rewarding, especially for students passionate about sustainability and innovation.
Graduates commonly work in farms, agribusiness firms, environmental consultancies, government agencies, and NGOs focused on food security.
Yes, Agriculture is respected for its practical impact on food systems, sustainability, and rural economies.
Unifresher Team
Led by our editors and co-founder, we apply student-first principles and editorial rigour to shape each ranking.
Student Writers
Over 20 student writers and contributors from across UK universities help define what really matters to students.
Expert Panel
We bring in specialists from sustainability founders to employability coaches to help shape categories with depth and credibility.
Our judging combines real student input with expert guidance. Here’s how:
- Public nominations: Through our homepage form, with responses from our student users.
- Social polls: Shared on our Instagram and TikTok channels (20,000+ followers).
- Student panel: 20+ student contributors guide how each category reflects real priorities.
- Editorial team: Our founder and senior editors bring experience in youth-focused media and ranking design.
- Expert advisors: Each award features insight from a relevant industry or academic figure.
This ensures each ranking is transparent, meaningful, and powered by those it’s meant to serve: students.
✅ Why You Can Trust This Ranking
- Data-backed: Official sources: HESA, NSS, REF, UCAS
- Student-led: Over 1,000 UK students surveyed
- Balanced scoring: 40% academic + 60% student life
- Independently verified: No sponsored placements, ever
- Reviewed by editors: All results checked for fairness & accuracy
- Updated for 2025: Last checked