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Bachelor of Agricultural Science with Honours (S4A)

Overview (2027)

Duration

Minimum 4 years, up to a maximum of 9 years.

Duration
Duration refers to the minimum and maximum amounts of time in which this course can be completed. It will be affected by whether you choose to study full or part time, noting that some programs are only available part time.

Location

"I was always changing my mind on what I wanted to do when I finished college. From vet science to medicine to law, but then one day a current agriculture student from the University came to our careers fair and spoke to us about the agricultural science degree. That was the first time I considered agriculture. Before that I thought you only did agriculture if you were going to get a family farm afterwards."

Lauren Rowlands

Bachelor of Agricultural Science with Honours

Lauren Rowlands
Bachelor of Agricultural Science with Honours

A degree in Agricultural Science is your opportunity to help change the world and be part of a profession where jobs are in demand.

The Bachelor of Agriculture with Honours is a four-year (full time) course with embedded honours that combines a strong foundation in agricultural science with advanced research skills. In your first three years, you’ll explore the science, technology, and business of agriculture while developing the ability to critically assess and improve farming systems. In your fourth year, you’ll complete an embedded honours research project, working closely with academic and industry mentors to investigate a real-world agricultural issue.

Taught by the Tasmanian Institute of Agriculture (TIA), a specialist research and teaching institute at the University of Tasmania, your education is at the cutting-edge of agriculture, informed by the latest world leading research and our strong connections with industry.

The course offers two majors; Crop Science and Plant Health and Sustainable Agriculture.

Crop Science and Plant Health

This major prepares you to improve the productivity and sustainability of crops in both field and protected systems. You’ll focus on plant physiology, agronomy, horticultural science, and crop protection, supported by studies in chemistry, botany, microbiology, and farm economics.

Tasmania’s cool climate provides a unique setting to work with high-value crops like berries, apples, grapes, and leafy greens. You’ll gain practical experience managing crop quality, biosecurity, and production systems—skills that are increasingly in demand as global agriculture adapts to climate change and shifting markets.

With access to research facilities and trial sites, plus industry placements in your third year, you’ll graduate ready for careers in agronomy, horticulture, biosecurity, and agricultural research.

Sustainable Agriculture

Sustainable food production is one of the most urgent global challenges. Learn how to design resilient and productive farming systems that support long-term environmental and economic sustainability. Study soil science, pasture management, animal production, agricultural technology, and farm business economics alongside core sciences like chemistry, ecology, and microbiology. With a systems-thinking approach, you’ll explore how soil, water, plants, animals, and climate interact across landscapes, and how to manage these interactions for sustainable outcomes.

Studying in Tasmania, a leader in clean and green agriculture, you’ll gain hands-on experience in diverse farming environments and graduate with the skills to shape the future of food and land management.

This degree can also be combined to form a double degree. Study what you want, explore your options and find out how you can accelerate your career.

  • 1 Explain the role, relevance, contemporary issues and major drivers of sustainable agricultural production and their value chains in society.
  • 2 Guide multi-disciplinary decision-making through integrating knowledge and skills from the core sciences, business and agriculture.
  • 3 Design and implement sustainable agricultural applications and solutions using scientific investigations, including quantitative and qualitative analyses, and critical evaluation of results.
  • 4 Compile and communicate scientific results, information, and arguments using a variety of modes including a research thesis or a professional report to a range of audiences to expand the knowledgebase and inform agricultural decision making.
  • 5 Use ethical, responsible, respectful and safe work and project management practices while adhering to relevant regulatory, and professional frameworks

Your learning experience goes beyond lectures, labs and tutorials. Field-based units can also give you the opportunity to participate in excursions to farms and businesses around the State.

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.

Support during your study

We provide online academic skills tutorials to help with your research assignments, as well as access to programs designed to develop your communication, mathematical and English language skills. Students also have 24-hour access to computer labs.

Industry Experience

You also have the opportunity to work with leading organisations to get real-world experience and network with potential employers while undertaking your studies. Students are encouraged to undertake 15 weeks of work experience, usually taken during holiday periods, providing valuable opportunities to apply your knowledge and skills on agricultural properties, in agribusiness and research-related activities, even in wilderness areas.

Become a Student Ambassador

Improve your communication, teamwork and leadership skills, meet new people, inspire and help others, and developing lasting friendships and networks as a student ambassador. Our ambassadors proudly represent the University throughout Tasmania in schools, at University and community events, and support a range of recruitment and engagement activities. Though the Student Ambassador Program or STEM Outreach Team you will have many opportunities for training and professional development, experience in real-world community engagement and outreach, networking, and public speaking, plus end up with a key point of distinction on your CV.

Study overseas at one of our partner institutions

Our international exchange program 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.

Alternative Virtual Exchange Opportunities can be found on our Virtual Overseas Experiences tab. For more information please contact Global.Mobility@utas.edu.au

Tasmania is a place filled with creativity, industry, nature, and adventure. Because we’re the only university in the state, you get close access to the industry leaders, researchers, and innovators who are shaping our island. That means learning alongside the very best so you can hone your job skills for a successful career.

Whatever you’re passionate about, we’ll give you a hands-on education and an unforgettable adventure with our work integrated learning opportunities.

As an agriculture student, you’ll have the opportunity to work with leading organisations and world-class researchers at the Tasmanian Institute of Agriculture. You’ll gain real-world experience and build valuable industry connections while you study. Students are encouraged to complete 15 weeks of work experience, typically during semester breaks, across agricultural properties, agribusinesses, research facilities, and even wilderness areas. These placements help you apply your learning in practical settings and prepare you for a career in one of the world’s most vital industries.

Bachelor of Agricultural Science with Honours graduates are eligible for membership of the Ag Institute Australia.

Career outcomes

“From me going overseas to work with climate change and climate negotiation to some of my colleagues working in Tassie in the agricultural industry here, I’ve realised it’s not a degree that limits you in any way.”

Oliver Gales, agricultural science graduate

Find out more

There is a growing demand for skilled Agricultural Science graduates. The knowledge you will gain can see you working all over the globe, in both government and private sectors, indoors, outdoors, in the lab and the field.

You can choose specialist studies that can focus on your career path, including:

Agronomist

Sustainable farming relies on primary producers receiving the most up-to-date information. As an agronomist, you would be working with industry to ensure farming systems remain economically and environmentally sustainable for future generations.

Agricultural entrepreneur

You will be equipped with key skills to establish your own career in the food sector. Graduates have set up their own successful operations based on understanding their role in supplying consumer demands. Run your own microbrewery, winery, farm, niche product or advisory service.

International Agricultural Development

Use your knowledge to tackle key challenges in developing countries including food security, biosecurity and sustainable management of natural resources. A career in this area may include working in partnership with local communities to build capacity and improve the productivity and sustainability of agriculture. Exciting opportunities exist to travel the world, make global connections, and bring new knowledge and skills back to Australia.

Postgraduate study

If you successfully complete this course, you may be also be eligible to apply for a range of other postgraduate courses including Masters by coursework and research. Filter the course list by Postgraduate to view the current courses available.

Course structure

Important Course Location Details

The course remains available on the Hobart campus but from 2023, domestic students can commence a  Bachelor of Agricultural Science with Honours degree in Launceston, with the degree being “taught-in” so that Year 2 (2024), Year 3 (2025) and Year 4 (2026) can also be studied from Launceston.  

The Bachelor of Agricultural Science with Honours requires the completion of 400 credit points comprising:

  • 100 credit point Major
  • 100 credit points of Core units
  • 100 credit points of Elective units
  • 100 credit points for embedded Honours (50 credit points core and 50 credit points in either a research stream or a professional stream)

For your major, you may select either one or both agricultural majors in Crop Science and Plant Health or Sustainable Agriculture.  All students study a set of core units.

In your elective component you can choose from any units marked as "Student Electives" which you meet the pre-requisites for, at any level, from across the university.

Your electives can be used to add breadth to your degree, by exploring a variety of different subject areas from within or outside the College of Sciences and Engineering. Alternatively, you can deepen your engagement with specific subject areas, for example, by completing additional units in the same discipline as your major or related fields.

You can also use this space to complete an optional second major which may be a (i) *second disciplinary major i.e. you may choose to complete both Crop Science and Plant Health, as well as Sustainable Agriculture, (ii) a sustainability major, or (iii) *another major from across the institution, noting some exclusions apply. (*to enrol in a second disciplinary major, or a major outside your discipline, please contact a Student Advisor via Uconnect).

We have a team of Student Advisers available to help you structure your studies to meet your desired outcomes. For enrolment assistance please contact us via U Connect today.

Entry requirements

We encourage you to apply for the courses you most want to study. If you are not eligible to enter your chosen course right now, the admissions team will work with you to find the best pathway option.

Enquire online for advice on the application process and the available pathways to study.

Schools Recommendation Program

Australian year 12 students can apply for this course via our Schools Recommendation Program (SRP). Rather than an ATAR, your application is based on a recommendation by your school teachers. This can factor in your year 11 results, an assessment of your capabilities, and other considerations.

Through the SRP, you can receive and accept an offer prior to completing year 12. You will still need to finish your year 12 studies – including any exams – to commence your studies.

If you don’t receive an offer for this course through the Schools Recommendation Program, you will be re-assessed for a higher preference offer once your ATAR is released.

Domestic applicants who recently completed secondary education

Applicants are ranked by ATAR and offers are made based on the number of places available.  This course has a Guaranteed ATAR of 65.

In 2025, the lowest ATAR to receive an offer into this course was 67.65. The lowest ATAR to receive an offer may change from year to year based on the number of applications we receive.

Applicants who have recently completed senior secondary studies but have not received an ATAR may still be eligible for admission. We will consider your individual subject results on a case-by-case basis when we assess your application.

Domestic applicants with higher education study

To be eligible for an offer, applicants must have:

  • Partially completed an undergraduate course at Diploma level or higher (or equivalent). Applicants must have completed at least two units of study (equivalent to 25 University of Tasmania credit points). If an applicant has failed any units, the application may be subject to further review before an offer is made; OR
  • Completed the University of Tasmania University Preparation Program (or an equivalent qualification offered by an Australian university).

Domestic applicants with VET / TAFE study

To be eligible for an offer, applicants must have completed a Certificate IV (or equivalent) in any discipline.  

Domestic applicants with work and life experience

This course does not admit students on the basis of work or life experience.

Please enquire online for advice on pathways, or alternative course options.

SPECIAL CONSIDERATION

We believe university education should be an option for everyone, no matter your background. If your ability to access or participate in education has been affected by circumstances beyond your control, you can apply for special consideration as part of your application. We will consider a range of factors, including economic hardship, a serious medical condition, or disability.

We can only approve applications for special consideration if we are confident that you have the necessary skills and knowledge to succeed in your studies. If your application is not approved, the University admissions team will work with you to find the best alternative pathway to your chosen course. Special consideration is not available for international applicants.

COURSE PARTICIPATION REQUIREMENTS 

This course includes compulsory Work Integrated Learning (professional experience placements). In order to participate in placements, all students must:

  • Complete a Safe to Practice Agreement declaring they have the medical, physical or psychological capacity to safely participate in professional experience practice. 

How to apply for a credit transfer

Applications for credit can be made in your course application. Find out more information about how to apply for a credit transfer/advanced standing at Recognition of Prior Learning.

Talk to us on 13 8827 or enquire online about your credit transfer.

Detailed admissions information and advice for all undergraduate courses, including comprehensive, course-level student profiles, is available from UTAS Admissions.

Fees & scholarships

Domestic students

This course is not currently accepting applications.

Specific fee information, including the availability of Commonwealth supported places, is linked to the availability of a course in a given year. While this course is not open for applications, there is no fee information available.

Domestic scholarships

Scholarships for domestic students

Each year, the University of Tasmania offers more than 900 scholarships and bursaries to support students from all backgrounds. These include awards for academic excellence, financial need, sporting achievement, overseas study, and students with a disability.

Agriculture students are especially well supported, with more scholarships available in this discipline than any other at the University. This reflects the strong demand for skilled graduates in the agricultural sector and the University’s close ties with industry.

For full details on available scholarships, including eligibility and how to apply, visit the University of Tasmania Scholarships page.

For information on general scholarships available at the University of Tasmania, please visit the scholarships website.

Scholarships for international students

There are a huge range of scholarships, bursaries and fee discounts available for international students studying at the University of Tasmania. For more information refer to International Scholarships.

How can we help?

Do you have any questions about choosing a course or applying? Get in touch.