Sciences

How to Become a Agricultural Scientist / Agronomist in South Africa

Feed the nation by improving crops, livestock, and farming systems

APS 24–34
APS Range
R220k – R850k per year
Annual Salary (ZAR)
Growing
Job Demand
Investigative / Realistic
RIASEC Profile
About this Career

Agricultural scientists study crop production, soil science, animal husbandry, and food systems to improve agricultural output and sustainability. South Africa's agricultural sector — citrus, wine, maize, cattle, poultry, and export fruit — creates strong demand for qualified agronomists, soil scientists, and food technologists. BSc Agriculture or BSc Agronomy (4 years) is the standard degree. The University of Pretoria and Stellenbosch have the most prestigious agricultural faculties in Africa.

What Does a Agricultural Scientist / Agronomist Do?

Agricultural scientists conduct field trials on new crop varieties, analyse soil and water samples, advise farmers on irrigation and fertilisation, develop pest management strategies, compile research reports, and assist with quality control for agricultural exports.

APS & Subject Requirements
Minimum APS
24 points
Typical APS Range
24–34 points
Required Subjects:
Life Sciences (Level 5+), Physical Sciences (Level 4+), Mathematics (Level 4+), English (Level 4+), Agriculture (helpful)
✗ Pure Mathematics is required — Mathematical Literacy is NOT accepted

Use the free Career Helper APS Calculator to calculate your exact score for each SA university.

SA Universities Offering This Programme

Programme names and requirements vary by institution. Always verify directly with the university before applying.

Step-by-Step Career Roadmap

  1. Achieve APS 24+ with Life Sciences and Physical Sciences. BSc Agriculture at UP (Hatfield), Stellenbosch, UFS, or UKZN. UP and Stellenbosch have the strongest agricultural faculties in SA.

  2. Complete the 4-year BSc Agriculture or BSc Agronomy degree with specialisation in crop science, soil science, animal science, or agricultural economics.

  3. Work for agricultural companies (Pioneer Seeds, Syngenta, Bayer CropScience), commercial farms, agricultural cooperatives (Afgri, GWK), the DALRRD (Department of Agriculture), or the Agricultural Research Council (ARC).

Frequently Asked Questions
What APS do I need for Agriculture at UP or Stellenbosch?
BSc Agriculture at UP requires APS 28–34. At Stellenbosch, APS 26–32. Life Sciences and Physical Sciences are required. Mathematical Literacy is not accepted at most faculties.
What do agricultural scientists earn in South Africa?
Junior agronomists and extension officers start at R220,000–R320,000. Senior agronomists and farm managers earn R400,000–R650,000. Agricultural scientists at research institutions and large corporations earn R600,000–R850,000.
Is Agriculture a good career in South Africa?
Yes — food security, climate change, and SA's large commercial farming and export sector create sustained demand. Precision agriculture, hydroponics, and agri-tech are growing rapidly.
Salary Range in South Africa (2026)
Starting Salary
R220k/year
Senior / Experienced
R850k+/year

Salary ranges are indicative for South Africa 2026 based on market data. Actual salaries vary by employer, location, and experience.