South Africa’s agricultural sector continues to grow and diversify, creating a high demand for skilled farmers, agri-entrepreneurs, and farm managers. Whether you’re a beginner looking to start your own farm, a young graduate entering the agri-sector, or a seasoned farmer seeking to modernise operations, the right training can make all the difference.
From short skills-based courses to full diplomas and degrees, South Africa offers a wide variety of farming courses designed to suit different needs, budgets, and specialisations. Here’s a guide to some of the best farming courses in South Africa, where to find them, and what to expect.
1. Agricultural Colleges and TVET Institutions
South Africa has several well-established agricultural colleges offering practical and academic training in crop production, livestock farming, agri-business, and more.
Elsenburg Agricultural Training Institute (Western Cape)
- Popular courses: Diploma in Agriculture, Viticulture & Oenology, and Short Skills Programs
- Highlights: Hands-on practical training, especially strong in wine and fruit farming
- Who it’s for: School leavers, aspiring wine farmers, and horticulturists
Cedara College of Agriculture (KwaZulu-Natal)
- Popular courses: Diploma in Agriculture with specialisations in animal or crop production
- Highlights: Emphasis on sustainable practices and mixed farming
- Who it’s for: Students looking for a practical, three-year qualification
Grootfontein Agricultural Development Institute (Eastern Cape)
- Popular courses: Agricultural Development and Extension-focused diplomas
- Highlights: Strong focus on small-stock production and dryland farming
- Who it’s for: Farmers in semi-arid and dryland regions
TVET Colleges
- Popular programs: NC(V) Primary Agriculture, NATED Farming Management courses
- Who it’s for: Youth and entry-level learners who want accessible, affordable agricultural education
2. University Agricultural Degrees
For those looking for a more academic and research-focused path, several South African universities offer degrees in agriculture, agri-science, and agribusiness.
University of Pretoria (UP) – Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences
- Popular qualifications: BSc Agriculture, BSc Plant and Soil Sciences, BSc Animal Science
- Highlights: High-level research, international partnerships, and agritech focus
University of Stellenbosch
- Popular qualifications: BScAgric (Viticulture, Horticulture, Agronomy)
- Highlights: Cutting-edge research, top facilities, and strong ties to the wine and export fruit industries
University of the Free State (UFS)
- Popular qualifications: BSc Agricultural Economics, BSc Animal and Crop Sciences
- Highlights: Focus on agricultural economics, policy, and climate-smart agriculture
3. Short Courses and Online Programs
Not everyone needs or can afford a long-term program. Luckily, South Africa has a growing number of practical, short, and online farming courses for beginners and small-scale farmers.
AgriSETA Accredited Training Providers
- Courses available: Poultry farming, dairy production, farm planning, business skills
- Highlights: Nationally recognised, practical and often subsidised
- Who it’s for: Emerging and smallholder farmers
Peritum Agri Institute
- Courses available: Farm business management, crop protection, livestock production
- Delivery: Online, face-to-face, and hybrid learning options
- Who it’s for: Mid-level managers, aspiring agri-entrepreneurs
Agricolleges International
- Courses available: Introduction to Agribusiness, Plant and Animal Production, Agronomy
- Delivery: Fully online with tutor support
- Who it’s for: Learners needing flexible, accessible learning from anywhere in South Africa
University of Cape Town (UCT) – GetSmarter
- Course example: Agricultural Economics and Business
- Delivery: Online with certification
- Who it’s for: Entrepreneurs, agribusiness professionals, and policy workers
4. Specialised Farming Training
For farmers focused on specific sectors, many private institutions offer training tailored to areas like hydroponics, beekeeping, poultry, and organic farming.
Hydroponic & Aquaponic Farming Courses
- Offered by: Hydroponic Institute of South Africa, AgriSkills Transfer
- Learn about: Soilless farming, climate control, vertical farming systems
Poultry Farming Workshops
- Offered by: Chemunique, Poultry Africa
- Learn about: Broiler and layer management, disease control, feed formulation
Organic Farming and Permaculture
- Offered by: SEED, Soil for Life
- Learn about: Organic certification, composting, eco-friendly farming methods
The best farming courses in South Africa are those that match your goals, whether that’s launching a small urban farm, growing a commercial enterprise, or mastering agri-business management. From hands-on diplomas at agricultural colleges to flexible online certifications, there are quality options for every level.
With the right training, today’s farmers can become tomorrow’s agri-leaders—armed not just with traditional skills, but with business acumen, sustainability awareness, and the ability to adapt to a changing climate.
