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Certificate in Science in Regenerative Agriculture (SPA) L6, 15 ECTS
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Status: Apply Now
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weeks: 12
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Fees: TBA
Course Overview
The aim of this Level 6 programme is to equip learners with the knowledge, practical skills, and entrepreneurial mindset required to engage in sustainable market gardening within the European agricultural context. Recognizing the critical role of farming in supporting livelihoods and local development, this programme responds to the growing challenges posed by climate change, resource limitations, and environmental degradation.
Through a blend of traditional agricultural knowledge and modern regenerative techniques, learners will explore market gardening as a viable and resilient business model. The programme will foster both hard and soft skills—including agricultural technical competencies, economic literacy, and business acumen—while promoting awareness of the social, environmental, and economic impacts of sustainable farming practices.
By engaging aspiring farmers, neo-farmers, and current practitioners, the programme aims to build capacity across the sector, support workforce development, and contribute to the wider adoption of regenerative agriculture. Learners will be empowered to implement innovative, locally adapted solutions that enhance food security,
biodiversity, and community resilience.
This programme is Free to successful applicants and is funded by the AGRETAIN Project. https://www.agretain.eu/
Contact Detials
Academic Queries :
Email: Yvonne.doyle@tus.ie
Entry Requirements
Applicants with relevant experience will be considered on a case by case basis.
Applicants who do not meet the above entry requirements may apply to be assessed for eligibility via the TUS RPL process.
ENGLISH LANGUAGE: Applicants who do not have English as their first language must ensure they satisfy English Language requirements. For entry to undergraduate courses, a score of 5.5 in an IELTS or equivalent exam is required. For postgraduate courses, a score of 6.0 in an IELTS or equivalent exam is required. It is the responsibility of the applicant to ensure their English proficiency meets these requirements.
Academic Queries
For academic queires about this course please contact Yvonne.Doyle@tus.ie at the Sustainable Development Research Institute.
Course Content
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Introduction To Market Gardening And Regenerative Agriculture
This module provides a broad overview of the current principles, practices, and business models shaping small-scale, sustainable food production today. It explores how market gardening compares with conventional
agriculture, highlighting its environmental, social, and economic dimensions.
Learners will be introduced to core elements of business planning, market research, funding opportunities, and value-added income streams, while also examining consumer behaviour, market trends, and community
engagement.
Learners will consider wider frameworks like the UN Sustainable Development Goals and the European Green Deal alongside practical insights into nature-friendly practices, pest and water management, and systems
thinking.
Designed both for newcomers and those with experience, this module lays the foundation for building resilient, innovative, value-driven and community-connected farming enterprises that balance ecological care, social
responsibility, and economic viability -
Agricultural Practices For Market Gardening:
This module provides learners with a comprehensive understanding of sustainable market gardening, emphasising the foundational role of soil as a living ecosystem essential for food production, biodiversity, and climate
regulation. Learners will explore the principles of soil health, crop production, and garden marketing, with a focus on vegetables, aromatic plants, ornamental crops, and trees. The module integrates agroecological
design, crop planning, and green manure strategies to support resilient and environmentally responsible farming systems.
Through a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical application, learners will develop the skills to manage soil sustainably, cultivate diverse crops, and design efficient market garden systems. The module also fosters
ethical and sustainable thinking, preparing learners to contribute meaningfully to the horticultural sector and broader environmental goals. -
Introduction To Business For Market Gardening
This module equips learners with the essential business, management, and digital competencies required to establish and grow a successful market gardening enterprise. It introduces project management principles
tailored to agricultural contexts, enabling learners to plan, organize, and evaluate market gardening projects effectively. Financial literacy is developed through practical budgeting exercises, supporting informed decision making
and resource allocation.
Entrepreneurial skills are fostered through a focus on communication, collaboration, motivation, and leadership—critical for navigating the challenges of running a horticultural business. Learners also gain digital skills to
enhance operational efficiency, marketing, and customer engagement in a technology-driven agricultural landscape.
The module examines customer relationship management, highlighting strategies for building trust, understanding market needs, and leveraging stakeholder collaboration to strengthen business visibility and
sustainability. Learners will be prepared to manage a market gardening business with confidence, innovation, and environmental responsibility.
More Information
Commencing February 2026 – 1 Semester
Modules are delivered in a blended learning format.
2 evenings per week online (days tbc) 7.30pm to 9pm
3 full day Saturday workshops in person in Cork
All lectures are recorded and available for listen back anytime.
The proposed delivery schedule is subject to change
Each 5 credits will normally equate to approximately 100 Total Learning Hours. Total Learning Hours includes the time you spend in class (lectures, tutorials, practical elements) and the time you spend completing work outside of college. The balance between these two varies by discipline, and by level of study. You should bear in mind that the workload will increase at particular times e.g. when assignments are due.
100% Continuous Assessment
Certificate in Science in Regenerative Agriculture (Market Gardening) Special Purpose Award Level 6, 15 ECTS
TBC
TBC
Places are allocated on a first come first served basis, prioritizing unemployed and returning applicants.
Course will be closed once the maximum number of applicants is reached.
Courses run subject to viable numbers.