MUAST Crop science

The challenge of Crop Scientists today is to implement crop, water and soil management strategies that maintain and increase production, while at the same time preserve the delicate balance in the agro-ecosystem. Continued increases in food and fibre production are essential for the future of mankind. Yet increased production places increased pressure on our soil, water and other finite resources.

To address the above challenges the department offer Honours degrees in Crop Production and Technology, Horticulture, and Plant Breeding and Biotechnology. These programmes have a strong industrial attachment component. Our programme also offers students to engage in in-depth research to address current challenges facing crop production value chains. The department takes value in its experienced staff that foster collaborations and co-operations with all stakeholders in providing innovative teaching, research and extension that leads to industrialization.    Our students exit with competitive analytical and entrepreneurship skills and they are well grounded in applications of biotechnology and information technology (ICTs). With these exit skills, our graduates become Agronomists, Horticulturalist, Plant Breeders, Biotechnologists, Extension Specialist, Conservationist and Agropreneur.

In addition the department offer exciting postgraduate taught Masters in Crop Protection and Crop Science (Agronomy/Plant Breeding).  Masters by Research (MPhil) programme is also offered.

Vision

The Department of Crop Science seeks to be a centre of innovation and excellence in teaching, research and extension services nationally, regionally and internationally.

Mission

The Department of Crop seeks to nurture competent crop specialists who can generate, analyze and implement sound scientific principles in the practice of caring and generation of new plant varieties in climate smart and sustainable agriculture.