English Master's of Agronomy (EMPA)

The English Master’s Program of Agronomy ("EMPA"), established in Fall 2017, provides a unique opportunity to prospective candidates aspiring to become future global leaders in the field of agronomy. All EMPA courses and lectures are offered in English to prepare students to face real-life challenges of the global economy. Our expert team of English-speaking professors and lecturers are trained to equip each student with the English skills necessary to compete in both the academic and professional fields. We are confident that EMPA is the leading international program in the field of agronomy.

In addition to the core agronomy courses, EMPA offers various electives such as entomology, ecology, genetics, and breeding, to help course participants choose their specific careers and fields. We are currently in discussions with foreign universities regarding a potential double degree program in agronomy and are working towards finalizing the details soon.

Program Objective

The main objective of this program is to equip students with the knowledge, skills, and experiences required to become global agricultural leaders. In addition to the basic academic discipline in the field of agronomy, our program will incorporate training in professional communication skills dealing with current global issues in agronomy. Enrolled students will also learn effective approaches to agricultural market production in various cultures, and acquire current knowledge and techniques in the agro-industry necessary for contributing to the local and national agricultural development.

Program Description

The program was developed according to ECTS system, 1 credit is equal to 27 hours, which is meant as a contact, as well as independent work hours. The distribution of credits is represented in the curriculum. The duration of the program is 2 years (4 semesters) and covers 120 credits (ECTS). Core courses - 75 credits, which are scheduled as follows: mandatory courses in specialization 65 credits; elective course 5 credit; practice-5 credits and research component – 45 credits. Practice will be held in vineyard and nursery.

The first-year learning process (two semesters 21-21 weeks) is scheduled as follows: two weeks, particularly in VII and XIV week provided midterm examinations i.e., duration of learning and midterm examinations is 17 weeks. During XVIII- and XXI week provided examinations (Main and supplementary examinations).

In the first semester of given year master learns 5 subjects with 5 credits and 1 subject 5 credits (elective). In second semester master learns 5 subjects with 5 credits and Graduate Research Project/prospectus, which estimated at 5 credits.

The second-year learning process (one semester 21 weeks) is scheduled as follows: two weeks, particularly in VII and XIV week provided midterm examinations i.e., duration of learning and midterm examinations is 17 weeks. During XVIII- and XXI week provided examinations (Main and supplementary examinations). In the third semester, Master learns 3 subjects with 5 credits and Research/experimental component, which estimated at 10 credits, 5 credits is foreseen for field practice. In the fourth semester Master completes the master's thesis. Master's thesis completion and presentation include 30 credits.

Program Prerequisites

For local Georgian students, the general requirement for admission is a bachelor’s degree (or equivalent academic degree) from a regionally accredited institution and a minimum CEFR level of B2. International students, whose post-secondary education was completed outside of Georgia is expected to hold a degree representing the completion of at least four years of study from a university or university-level institution.

English language prerequisites may not apply. However, students who have a bachelor’s degree (or equivalent academic degree) in the field of agronomy or general majors related to biological sciences are preferred.

English Proficiency

We expect our students to become international leaders in the field of agronomy. That’s why EMPA focuses on English communication skills, which may be a challenge and deterrent to some prospective students. Our professors and lecturers are dedicated to helping students hone their English language skills throughout the program. We are also currently under discussion with a third-party English language institute for future collaboration to provide students with additional help.

No English Test scores (ex. TOEFL) are required for applying for EMPA. However, if you have any English test scores, please report them so that we may increase the efficiency of teaching in EMPA.

Courses

First Semester

• Plant Biotechnology
• Advanced Plant Pathology
• Organic Agriculture
• Integrated Pest Management
• Professional English in Agronomy I

Second Semester

• Advanced Plant Breeding
• Soil Ecology
• Turfgrass Development and Management
• Professional English in Agriculture II

Third Semester

• Modern gardening: Fruit and Grape Growing
• Sustainable Agriculture
• Field Practice in Viticulture and Fruit Growing
• Ornamental Gardening
• Soil Fertility and Plant Nutrition

Fourth Semester

Research and thesis

Elective Courses

• Entrepreneurship and World Wine Business
• Systematic Production and Winemaking
• Management of Food Safety

Detailed syllabi in each course will be provided upon request.