Are you working with farmers, farm families or the wider agricultural sector? Do you want to build your confidence, develop your skills and strengthen your career while continuing to work?

The Masters in Agricultural Extension and Innovation, delivered by University College Dublin and part-funded by Macra Agricultural Skillnet, could be the next step for you.

This two-year, part-time distance learning programme is designed for people who want to make a real impact in Irish agriculture.

Whether you are working in advisory services, education, consultancy, agri-business, technical sales or other farmer-facing role, this Masters will help you develop the skills needed to support farmers through change, innovation and decision-making in an ever-changing agri-sector.

That is exactly what this programme is designed to deliver.

This Masters programme combines academic learning with real-life agricultural scenarios, so participants can apply what they learn directly to their own work.

Modules cover areas such as agricultural extension and innovation, client relationships, group approaches in agriculture, understanding the family farm business, programme and project management, research methods and creative thinking.

One of the main benefits of the programme is its flexibility. As a part-time distance learning course, it allows participants to continue working while studying.

This makes it a great option for busy professionals who want to gain a recognised Level 9 qualification without stepping away from their career.

Participants also benefit from learning alongside others working across the agri-sector.

This creates valuable opportunities to share experiences, network and learn from your classmates.

For employers, supporting a staff member to complete this Masters is an investment in stronger advisory, communication and leadership skills.

The programme is part-funded by Macra Agricultural Skillnet, making it a more accessible option for eligible applicants.

Applications are now open for the next intake of the Masters in Agricultural Extension and Innovation.

The closing date for applications is Monday, July 13, 2026.

The course commences in September and runs over two academic years with approximately 10 contact days on campus.

The subsidised total cost of the course will be approximately €7,000 for the two years, which works out at approximately €3,500 per year.

If you are ready to develop your career, strengthen your skills and play a bigger role in the future of Irish agriculture, this programme is for you.