OverviewAgricultural scientists play a pivotal role in our global society. Agricultural systems supply most of the world’s food and fibre needs, but maintaining or increasing production in the future depends on the development and implementation of sustainable agricultural practices.
The four-year program (73M) in Agricultural Science gives students a foundation in the physical and biological sciences, and specialisation in a broad range of agricultural disciplines. In their final year of study, students have the opportunity to undertake an honours research project of their choice, as a pathway to a future career in agricultural research and development.
The three-year degree (73N) offers students the option of a double major in agricultural production and agricultural business management, which reflects the University and State Government’s commitment to the future of agriculture in Tasmania. Students will gain knowledge and skills in the principles and practices of agricultural production as well as an understanding of the business environment that is critical to the economic performance of agricultural industries and enterprises. Agricultural businesses from small holders to large corporate enterprises supply most of the world’s food and fibre needs. Producers require production systems that allow them to remain financially viable while maintaining or enhancing the environment and meeting the challenges of climate change and the emerging global food crisis.
Our research institute, TIA, is a centre of excellence in cool temperate agricultural research, development and extension, provides outstanding opportunities for research training as well as giving students access to world-class researchers in the Dairy, Extensive Agriculture, Food Safety, Perennial Horticulture and Vegetable Centres.
Agricultural science graduates have excellent job prospects both nationally and internationally. There are many job opportunities in science, biotechnology and research, as well as in the government and agribusiness sectors. Graduates also gain employment working on agricultural aid projects in developing countries. Examples of careers include: Agribusiness consultant; Agronomist; Animal scientist; Entomologist; Field officer; Horticultural scientist; Microbiologist; Natural resource manager; Plant breeder; Plant pathologist; Soil scientist.
Graduates are eligible for membership of the Australian Institute of Agricultural Science and Technology (AIAST).
This on-campus, 4-year (minimum) full-time course is available at Hobart. The objectives are to provide:
This on-campus, 3-year (minimum) full-time course is available at Hobart. The course gives students an opportunity to acquire knowledge and skills suited to the needs of a professional agriculturalist or horticulturalist. Emphasis is given to scientific technology, its application and the management of agricultural and horticultural enterprises.
(For research trained degrees, see the Research section.)
The program aims to provide: advanced knowledge and scientific training in a specialised area of agricultural science; training in research as preparation for employment in a research organisation or for postgraduate study in Master or PhD programs. A candidate who has completed the Third Examination of the Bachelor of Agricultural Science with sufficient merit will be invited by the Head of School to enrol for the degree of Bachelor of Agricultural Science with Honours.
This course (min 1 yr) specifically aims to equip students with the knowledge, skills, competencies and awareness in preparation for employment in agricultural research organisations and businesses as well as for higher degree research. The course provides an entry point to an Honours degree for students who have completed science-based degrees other than the BAgrSc, and particularly students who have completed the BAppSc(Agr) degree.
This course (min 1 yr) is intended to provide additional skills, knowledge and academic advancement to individuals who hold an undergraduate degree and have a significant level of work-experience in agriculture, horticulture or forestry.
This course (min 1 yr) is intended to provide additional skills, knowledge and academic advancement to individuals who hold an undergraduate degree. The course provides access to the Master of Agricultural Science or PhD degree courses.