At a time when the nation is realising just how vital the food industry is, aspiring students are being encouraged to find out more about a range of degree courses to become the next generation of food producers and make a real difference within the sector.

While the official UCAS deadline for applications for a 2020 start at Harper Adams University was in January, prospective students can still apply – which is good news for those reconsidering their path in light of the pandemic. The University campus is currently closed to visitors, but the admissions team is still available to answer enquiries.

And an interactive event is being planned to help showcase what the university, its campus and community have to offer.

Saffron Grover, Director of Marketing and Communications at Harper Adams, said: “These are extremely unusual times and whilst the campus is closed to visitors, it’s important to emphasise that the university is operating and will continue to receive and advise on applications from students to start with us this September.

“The response to COVID-19 has demonstrated that, alongside healthcare, the careers we place graduates into are also vital to the nation – keeping the food chain moving and supporting animal welfare. The career opportunities are wide and varied across the food production and processing sector, all of which are seeking new talent and our graduates are in high demand.

“We also offer routes in engineering, land and property management, agriculture, environment and sustainability, wildlife conservation, animal health, behaviour and welfare, including veterinary professions and business management.

“A Harper Adams degree is something that really matters. All our courses have a placement year and all are developed alongside industry, meaning we enjoy a high degree of success in terms of graduate employability, which currently stands above 97%.”

Those wishing to learn more can register their interest in future events at harper.ac.uk/open2020 or contact the admissions team, email admissions@harper-adams.ac.uk