MA Rural Skills (SCQF Level 5)

Modern Apprenticeships typically take 12–18 months to complete. Start dates may also vary. Please contact us for an informal chat to discuss the options which may be available whether you are leaving school, in current employment, seeking an apprenticeship, an employer, a careers adviser or are a parent or carer.

Location: Oatridge
Study mode:
Start date: September 2026
Duration: 1 years
Agency code: RUS5

how to apply

Programme overview

What is a Modern Apprenticeship (MA)?
Modern Apprenticeships are work-based pathways to recognised industry qualifications. They provide employers support to develop a strong workforce by teaching new and existing employees valuable skills and knowledge directly relevant to their business. For employees, they are a pathway to industry and nationally recognised qualifications.

How does it work?
When you study a MA with us, we deliver the programme, provide your training, assessments and qualification recognition. We also access funding on behalf of you and your employer.

In an MA, you’ll immediately put your knowledge and learning into practice, making a real contribution to improving business productivity.

As well as gaining experience in the workplace, you’ll be supported by 'off-the-job training' at college. MA’s typically take between 12 and 18 months and each provides a route or pathway to further skills opportunities and potential progression.

SRUC holds open days regularly. Visit our listings page for details of our up-coming events.

Entry requirements

You must be employed within the industry or have an employer who would be willing to employ them. A satisfactory standard of literacy and numeracy is required. Relevant sector experience will be considered

What you'll learn

The MA is made up of the following areas:

Environmental Conservation
You'll learn skills essential for the Countryside Management industry. A range of topics will be covered including how to monitor and maintain health, safety and security, establish and maintain working relationships with others and develop an awareness of environmental good practice.

Estate Management

Fees and funding

There is not normally a requirement for a fee contribution from the apprentice or the employer. SRUC will secure funding on your behalf from Skills Development Scotland to meet the cost of your training and Modern Apprenticeships.

However an apprentice must be in employment and the employer would be expected to support the apprentice whilst under training, including for agreed off-the-job training elements.

Funding may also be available to support apprentices where, for example, remoteness, rurality, or disability, may affect an apprentice's ability to fully engage with and complete an apprenticeship programme. Please contact us for details.

MA Rural Skills (SCQF Level 5)

how to apply

About SRUC

Anchored locally, impacting globally.

Training courses

SRUC's training service offers a wide range of training and skills development courses to meet the needs of the land-based workforce across Scotland and the rest of the UK.

Research

Delivering research for change.

Enterprise Academy for the Rural & Natural Economy

Our Enterprise Academy was established to champion sustainable thinking and entrepreneurial action across education, business and research at SRUC and in our wider communities.