At the Faculty of AgriSciences, we draw on a rich tradition while embracing modern insights to tackle agricultural challenges head-on. We lead sustainable solutions with advanced facilities and institutes like the Centre for Food Safety, supported by a vibrant community of students and staff. Whether crafting South Africa’s only university-labelled wine or driving breakthrough research in food security, forestry and conservation, our work turns education into meaningful change. Every innovation we pursue aims to build a future where agriculture remains resilient, sustainable and capable of nourishing people and the planet.
Our Values
Our values are the beliefs and attitudes that guide our behaviour (in essence, our ‘action guides’). All of our values are equally important, interconnected and supported by SU’s ethics code.
Our programmes
Undergraduate
Our undergraduate agriculture, forestry and conservation programmes offer hands-on learning that blends fieldwork with scientific innovation. Students engage in real-world projects such as developing sustainable crop practices and precision forestry techniques, directly contributing to food security and environmental resilience.
Postgraduate
Our postgraduate offerings, spanning Honours, Master’s and Doctoral degrees, focus on plant biotechnology, agricultural economics and conservation ecology. Graduates have conducted award-winning research on drought-tolerant crops and innovative conservation strategies that enhance biodiversity. Designed to produce world-class experts, our programmes merge advanced research with real-world impact.
Our departments
The Faculty of AgriSciences is organised into several departments, each focusing on distinct yet interrelated areas of agriculture and forestry.
Agricultural Economics focuses on agricultural policy, resource economics and international trade, equipping students to navigate the complexities of the agricultural sector.
Agronomy specialises in crop production systems, including cool-weather and pasture crops, emphasising sustainable agriculture.
Animal Science specialises in animal nutrition, physiology and genetics to enhance livestock production and health.
Conservation Ecology and Entomology is dedicated to conservation management, pest control, and ecological restoration, promoting biodiversity and ecosystem health.
Food Science is centred on food safety, new product development, and sensory science, which are advancing the quality and innovation of food products.
Forest and Wood Science engages in precision forestry and wood product quality, contributing to sustainable forest management and green building solutions.
Genetics explores animal, human and plant genetics, driving advancements in biotechnology and breeding programs.
Horticultural Science focuses on cultivating deciduous and subtropical fruits, citrus and ornamental plants, enhancing post-harvest technology.
Plant Pathology addresses plant disease management through pre- and post-harvest pathology and molecular techniques.
Soil Science investigates soil fertility, digital mapping and sustainable irrigation practices, ensuring optimal land use and crop production.
Viticulture and Oenology is dedicated to grapevine and wine sciences, supporting the viticulture industry with cutting-edge research and education.
Our distinguishing features
Our research
