In recent years, there has been a growing trend towards Studying the specialization of plant production in Turkey, driven by changing consumer preferences, technological advancements, and government policies. The term “plant production” refers to the cultivation and harvesting of plants for use as food, fuel, medicine, or other products. There are various methods and techniques for plant production, and the specific techniques used can depend on the type of plant being grown, the environment in which it is cultivated, and the available resources for farmers.
This article aims to provide an overview of studying plant production in Turkey, including its benefits, challenges, and prospects.
Advantages of Studying Specialization in Plant Production in Turkey
Specialization in plant production can lead to higher yields, lower costs, and greater profitability for farmers. By focusing on a limited range of crops, farmers can improve their utilization of resources such as land, water, and labor, and they can benefit from economies of scale in terms of input procurement and market access.
This qualification provides a strong foundation for learners to expand their learning into more specialized agricultural fields, such as management and technical production practices, at the degree or advanced diploma level.
It provides a solid knowledge base for establishing sustainable farming operations.
While technical production is ensured, emphasis is also placed on good agricultural practices and agricultural works as key competencies.
Active engagement in the primary agriculture sector through the production of high-quality agricultural products.
Individual preparation for effective participation in the primary agriculture sector (through the production of high-quality agricultural products).
Being an active economic participant in agricultural practices will directly impact local economic development through food production, improving food security for households, and accessing mainstream agriculture.
Best Universities to Study Plant Production in Turkey
Niğde Ömer Halisdemir Üniversitesi.
Muş Alparslan Üniversitesi.
Uluslararası Kıbrıs Üniversitesi.
Plant Production Curriculum in Turkey
The study curriculum for Plant Production varies depending on the university or country in which the student studies. However, there must be mandatory courses that the student must study and are common in all countries, including:
Plant Science.
Agricultural Ecology.
Agricultural Economics.
Analytical Chemistry.
Animal Science.
Genetics.
Plant Physiology.
Soil Science.
Biosystem Engineering.
Agricultural Research.
Experimental Design.
Entomology.
Plant Protection Methods and Medicines.
Food Preservation.
Family Health.
Community Health and Nutrition.
Principles of Quality, Patient Safety, and Infection Control.
Core Specializations in the Field of Plant Production
There are several departments that fall under the specialization of Plant Production, including:
Earth Sciences.
Water Engineering.
Environmental Engineering.
Economics.
Agricultural Extension.
Biotechnology.
Animal Production.
Soil and Irrigation.
Nutrition.
Food Engineering.
Ornamental Plants.
Duration of Plant Production Studies
Plant Production is a bachelor's degree program offered by Turkish universities. Therefore, the duration of this specialization is 4 years. Although it is not a very common department, universities have started to open this specialization again. This program includes a broad knowledge of the following:
Research methodology and learning.
Farm business management.
Staff management in the agricultural process.
Financial management in agricultural businesses.
Marketing agricultural products that meet food safety standards.
Infrastructure, resources, and technology management.
Fields of Work in Plant Production in Turkey
A graduate with a bachelor's degree in Horticulture and Agriculture can pursue further academic studies such as a master's or doctoral degree or seek a career. There are numerous diverse fields of work in the agricultural production sector, including:
Becoming an agricultural entrepreneur.
Working as a consultant in plant production and horticulture.
Working as an international sales representative.
Being a marketer who develops markets and devises marketing strategies for agricultural products.
Working in the field of nutrition.
Engaging in crop management, production management, and quality control.
Working in agricultural consulting and engineering offices.
Working on farms and agricultural establishments.
Conditions for Studying Plant Production in Turkey
Public Universities
Admission to some government universities in Turkey depends on success in the Turkish YÖS aptitude test or the SAT aptitude test, in addition to obtaining a high school diploma with a varying grade requirement depending on the university.
A TOEFL test and Turkish language proficiency test (TOMER) are required if the language of instruction is Turkish. If the student doesn't have a TOEFL or TOMER certificate, they will have to take a language proficiency test at the same university they're applying to if accepted. If the student passes, they start their first year of study immediately. If they fail, they have to undergo a preparatory year to learn the language.
Private Universities
As for the study requirements in Turkish private universities, they don't require any additional conditions from students. It's enough to have a high school diploma with a grade of no less than 50%. When choosing to study in English, a preparatory year is taught, as well as when studying in Turkish.
