Plant Protection
Objectives of the Program
Crop protection is a rapidly evolving sector, both in terms of concepts and actors. Debates surrounding organic farming, GMOs, groundwater pollution, pesticide residues in food, and sustainable agriculture clearly demonstrate this. The impact of climate change, leading to the emergence of new plant pests, also affects the field of crop protection. The objectives of this bachelor’s degree program are to provide scientific and operational knowledge to intervene in plant protection, enabling students to manage and understand developments related to changing perceptions of living organisms, the complex interactions between pests, beneficial organisms, plants, and abiotic factors, and their management. Plant protection is a multidisciplinary field that involves the biology and ecology of pests in agricultural systems to develop rational control strategies, which may include the use of pesticides or alternative/complementary solutions such as prophylactic measures, genetic control, and biological control, while considering the goals of producers and society. The program encompasses technical, scientific, cultural, environmental, industrial, and political aspects.
Through this program, students have the opportunity to acquire basic knowledge in agronomy and crop protection techniques. The program also allows students to pursue further studies in phytopharmacy, biological control, crop production, natural substances and therapeutic innovation, crop science and technology, and biotechnological techniques. Future employment opportunities in these sectors often involve contractual positions with various titles such as research associate, project officer, assistant researcher, mission officer, and development agent.
Targeted Competencies
The bachelor’s degree in plant protection is designed to provide fundamental knowledge that enables students to develop in-depth understanding of plant production, valorization, and protection based on integrated pest management principles, biological control, and general methodologies. It aims to educate students on the knowledge, concepts, and methodologies of plant protection (pest control, identification, and mastery of pest control techniques), foster an open-minded approach and the necessary modes of reasoning for the advancement and application of knowledge, and develop skills to tackle development projects.
Regional and National Employment Opportunities
Potential employment opportunities at regional and national levels include:
– Local government: General councils, municipalities, inter-municipalities, technical services, and agricultural services departments
– Public institutions: Environmental agencies, National Institute of Forestry Research (INRF), Mediterranean Institute of Forestry and Agroforestry (EMIFOR), National Institute of Agronomic Research (INRAA), National Institute of Plant Protection (INPV), National Institute of Agricultural Research (ITAFV), Conservation of Forests, etc.
– Nurseries and plant production facilities
– Stores selling plant protection products
Pathways Programs
– Biotechnology and Sustainable Development
– General Agronomy
– Crop Production
– Phytopharmacy
– Plant Improvement
– Agricultural and Forestry Zoology
Course Structure