Overview

The Plant Genetics and Crop Improvement MSc course from the University of East Anglia is a unique opportunity to study plant molecular genetics and its potential applications in the 21st century, within an environment of academic and research excellence. 

Explore plant breeding, genetics, genomics, bioinformatics, and statistics while learning from internationally recognised experts. By combining traditional breeding approaches with the latest technologies, you'll gain the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in this rapidly evolving field.  

You'll develop both theoretical understanding and practical expertise, preparing you for careers in plant science, crop improvement, and agricultural innovation. During your research project, you'll apply your knowledge to real-world challenges. Working alongside leading researchers, you'll develop the confidence to work independently while gaining experience as part of a collaborative research team. This hands-on experience will help you build the practical skills, scientific expertise, and professional experience valued by employers and research organisations.

Visits to UK plant breeding companies will give you first-hand insight into how new crop varieties are developed and brought to market. These experiences will help you understand the industry in practice and expand your professional network. 

Employability

• You’ll graduate from this prestigious course well prepared for a career in plant breeding and crop improvement, or further PhD study in this area. 

• Having studied at one of the world’s leading research centres in this field, it’s no wonder that our most recent graduates have achieved great success in finding employment or academic research positions. 

Careers

Examples of careers that you could enter include: 

• Plant Breeder: Develop improved crop varieties to support sustainable agriculture, food security, and environmental resilience  

• Plant Science Researcher: Contribute to scientific discoveries in genetics, crop improvement, and plant biology  

• Plant Biotechnology Scientist: Apply innovative technologies to solve challenges in agriculture and plant production  

• University Researcher: Conduct cutting-edge research and contribute to advances in plant science and breeding  

• Data Analyst: Use biological, genetic, and genomic data to support research, innovation, and decision-making across industries