Bachelor of Agriculture

The Bachelor of Agriculture provides students with a sound understanding of the structure and operation of agricultural production industries of Australia, as well as an understanding of Australia's role in global food and fibre production.

Students will develop an understanding of fundamental scientific concepts, and will learn to apply this understanding to a range of agricultural contexts, including precision farming.

Through core studies at each year level, students will develop an integrated and multidisciplinary understanding of agricultural science, and of the social, political, and economic drivers of resource management, agricultural development and sustainability.

At the same time, depth of understanding in a chosen major in Plant and Soil Science, Production Animal Science or Agricultural Economics, will equip students with the knowledge, skills and aptitudes required to assess and improve performance in agricultural industries, to ensure long term sustainability, and to contribute as leaders in agricultural industries and communities.

Students will be involved in study at both the Dookie and Parkville campuses (with the option of a full time program of study at the Dookie campus in Semester 2 of second year). Students will also have an opportunity to undertake industry placements.

Key learning objectives of the course are to develop in our students:

• Abilities to critically evaluate options, and formulate plans that will ensure long term industry and environmental sustainability
• A systems-thinking approach to agricultural production and land management, including an understanding of: the structures of agriculture-related industries; the principal factors that determine location, environmental impact, sustainability, profitability and international trade competitiveness
• An understanding of how agriculture and other land uses (including agro-forestry) influence the landscape
• Breadth and depth of knowledge relevant to agriculture, and the ability to critically evaluate knowledge gained from a range of scientific, economic and social sources
• Skills to effectively analyse, and scientifically evaluate agricultural and environmental problems and reach appropriate solutions
• The ability to communicate and discuss scientific and industry information with relevant stakeholders
• Effective communication skills in a variety of media and settings
• The capacity for initiating and maintaining cooperative relationships with colleagues, employers and clients
• Effective team collaboration and leadership skills
• The ability to collect, analyse and interpret agricultural and environmental data for appropriate decision making
• An understanding of the research methodologies necessary to design, conduct and interpret small scientific research projects
• A commitment to the highest standards of academic and intellectual integrity, and an acceptance of the community responsibilities of citizenship befitting their professional standing

Graduates of the Bachelor of Agriculture will be:

• Scientists equipped with the knowledge and skills to contribute to the agricultural sector and the profession of agricultural science as soil scientists, agronomists and plant scientists, animal scientists, agricultural economists or social scientists
• Confident in their ability to solve problems, create new knowledge, and apply knowledge and skills to create solutions
• Flexible and energetic team players who can communicate effectively with a wide range of stakeholders
• Aware of their role as leaders locally, nationally and globally in ensuring sustainable agricultural production outcomes