Agricultural Production Chain Management - Horticulture Chains: Van Hall Larenstein, University of Applied Sciences

Course description
The Master of Agricultural Production Chain Management (APCM) is intended for development specialists working in organisations dealing with agricultural production, processing, marketing, quality control and logistics.
Designed to increase your ability to anticipate and exploit these developments, this programme examines each stakeholder in the chain (suppliers, farmers, processors, traders, retailers and consumers), particularly in the stages from input to processing. It also approaches the overall chain from the perspective of logistics, economics, quality control, marketing channels, and information flows.
Course structure
Modules in this 12-month Master's programme are defined in terms of hours and European Credits (EC).
The programme consists of the following modules:

• Introduction (4 EC)
• Value-Chain Analysis (10 EC)
• Horticulture Chains (17 EC)
• Professional Environment (13 EC)
• Management and Planning (4 EC)
• Research (4 EC)
• Thesis (18 EC)

Career opportunities
Managers and co-ordinators of programmes and companies related to horticulture chains will gain specialised skills that enable them to improve the management and co-ordination capacity of their organisation. By integrating plant-production subjects with management skills, and by addressing the economic and institutional aspects of agriculture, the programme will help them anticipate changes in demand and policies at local, national and international levels. It will thus enhance their ability to manage and innovate.
Admission requirements
To be eligible for admission you have to meet the following requirements:

• A Bachelor degree, or an equivalent qualification in a relevant subject.
• A minimum of 2 years of relevant working experience.
• A good working knowledge of spoken and written English (TOEFL score of 600 or more).
• Applicants have to prove this proficiency, for example by submitting certificates issued by a recognised language institute such as TOEFL or the British Council.
• Computer literacy (Windows, Word, Excel and Internet use) is required.