Bachelor of Applied Science (Agriculture and Business) (P3K)

You will gain knowledge, understanding and skills in the principles and practices of agricultural production and how they contribute to best-practice change.  There is an emphasis on understanding the value chain and business environment that is fundamental to the economic performance of agricultural industries and enterprises, which is why work experience is offered in the third year of the degree and there are significant other opportunities to engage directly with the vibrant and dynamic Tasmanian agricultural industry.

The course includes theory and practical activities around agricultural production, economics, marketing, finance and communication. Together these are used to understand the real-life and complex problems facing agricultural production, practice change and agribusiness.

Areas of study covered in this course include:

• Agribusiness
• Agricultural production and technology
• Animal science and principles of breeding
• Crop production
• Crop protection and microbiology
• Economics, finance and marketing
• Soil science

1. Explain the major biophysical, environmental, economic, social and policy drivers that underpin agricultural practice and how they contribute to practice change.
2. Examine the agricultural contexts within which producers, processors and consumers, make decisions.
3. Analyse complex economic issues in agriculture through applying knowledge of:
   1. The core agricultural and business disciplines
   2. Relevant agricultural production systems and their value chains
4. Formulate advice for key issues in agriculture and practice change by:
   1. Identifying contemporary issues and opportunities in agriculture.
   2. Gathering, critically evaluating and synthesising information from a range of relevant sources and disciplines.
   3. Selecting and applying appropriate theoretical techniques or tools.
   4. Collecting, accurately recording, analysing, interpreting and reporting data.
   5. Working ethically, effectively, responsibly and safely in an individual and team context
   6. Communicating effectively with a range of stakeholders using a variety of modes.
5. Disseminate a series of research conclusions for a scholarly audience informed by analysis, synthesis and evaluation of data using appropriate methods

Tasmania is an agriculture powerhouse, punching well above our weight in terms of output volume, diversity of what we grow and create, and especially the quality of both our products and natural resources.

Engagement with industry throughout your degree

Our Agriculture and Business course turns the agriculture industry into your classroom through a range of hands-on experiences including field trips to leading agricultural businesses in the state, and the opportunity for development of skills in practical classes.

You will have the opportunity to visit thriving Tasmanian small to medium enterprises such as Westlands nursery, Cracknell Tomatoes, Reid Fruits, and Shambles Brewery. Industry experiences also include research companies such as Peracto, and Tasmanian agronomy companies focused across a wide range of crops all grown locally.

You will also gain valuable and highly relevant knowledge by hearing from industry guest lecturers.

Several of the advanced level units provide you with the opportunity to demonstrate self-directed learning, such as small group projects and industry placement.

The Tasmanian Institute of Agriculture (TIA) and the University farms

The Tasmanian Institute of Agriculture (TIA) is a specialist research and teaching institute at the University of Tasmania specialising in impact-driven research to support prosperous, innovative and sustainable agriculture and food sectors, and a healthy bioeconomy that supports communities around the world.

TIA maintains four farms around the State including dairy, vegetable and grain farming. These provide essential teaching and research links.

The dynamic team of 130+ scientists and technical experts, many of whom are internationally renowned and your lecturers, have developed collaborative links with scientific and business communities, including cooperative research centres in fields such as separation science, geological research, food safety, ocean monitoring, climate and ecosystems.

Overseas Educational Experiences

Our international educational programs offers opportunities to study at universities around the world, and it counts towards your degree. Exchange can allow you to have an affordable educational and cultural experience in a foreign country for a semester, or a full year. To facilitate this, we offer a range of scholarships and financial assistance. You may also be eligible for OS-HELP Loans or scholarship funding to assist with their airfares, accommodation and other expenses.

Find out more about Student Exchange.

A work-integrated-learning business placement is offered as part of this degree, providing you the chance to connect with Tasmania's vibrant and dynamic agricultural businesses, facilitated by the strong relationships that the University of Tasmania have with industry. You will get hands-on experience in the industry, and develop networks with potential employers while studying, building valuable career connections before you even graduate.

This week-long placement during your third year generally taking during semester break. Combined with sector wide demand for graduates, these placements give you a great opportunity to gain employment opportunities before you graduate.