Global Agri-Food Systems
Dates & timetable:
This module aims to develop the learner’s competence in global agri-food systems. It will review current food systems and how they function and their interconnectedness. It will also discuss the inefficiencies as well as their causes with respect to food systems and food security.
With respect to food security, it will review the current challenges faced by our global food systems and discuss possible solutions and their need to be broad reaching to have impact. Specific technical areas of discussion will include, but are not limited to, global agri-food systems, basics of supply chain management, agri-food system footprint, global food security, UN SDGs.
| Date | Time |
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Open in Jan 2026
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Description:
This module aims to develop the learner’s competence in global agri-food systems. It will review current food systems and how they function and their interconnectedness. It will also discuss the inefficiencies as well as their causes with respect to food systems and food security. With respect to food security, it will review the current challenges faced by our global food systems and discuss possible solutions and their need to be broad reaching to have impact. Specific technical areas of discussion will include, but are not limited to, global agri-food systems, basics of supply chain management, agri-food system footprint, global food security, UN SDGs.
Learning Outcomes:
On successful completion of this module, a student will be able to:
- Develop a detailed knowledge and comprehension of agri-food systems function and importance in a global context and describe the actors, connections, and activities necessary to produce safe and nutritious food.
- Analyse and evaluate the challenges faced by food systems and their link to global food security.
- Develop an in-depth knowledge of EU and international policy regarding sustainability targets, environmental and social protection in the context of agri-food systems.
- Appraise and critique current national, EU and international green agendas in the context of global food security.
- Interpret and summarize relevant scientific literature on the impact of current agri-food systems on an environmental, economic, and societal scale.
Volume (ECTS):
10 ECTS
Language:
English proficiency level CEFR C1
Transversal Skills:
Critical thinking, team work and collaboration, groupwork.
Competencies:
Systems thinking, problem-solving, critical thinking.
Study format
Online
Study methods:
Definition and components of agri-food systems
Current function and basic principles of supply chain management
Current global challenges and link to food security
Agri-food systems footprint and impact on environment, economy
And society
EU and international policies and green agendas relating to SDG’s
And food security
Assessment:
- <40%: Very little knowledge and understanding of the subject matter. Unable to carry out critical thinking or practical skills.
- 40%–59%: The learner will be able to demonstrate a good understanding of the subject matter. The student will be able to write and present a topical case study.
- 60%–69%: In addition to the above, the student will demonstrate more detailed knowledge of all the module topics covered. The student will also be able to write and present a good quality case study.
- 70%–100%: The learner will be able to demonstrate comprehensive knowledge and understanding of all learning outcomes and write and present a related high quality case study.
Host university:
South East Technological University, Ireland
