The Master of Agricultural Sciences combines a strong core of agricultural science knowledge with leadership, communication taught by specialised experts, along with practical learning via an industry placement or research project. You will develop effective written, verbal and visual communication skills, leadership skills, as well as an understanding of scientific research and literature.

Choose YOUR SPECIALISATION

Focus your learning by choosing to specialise in one of five exciting and industry-relevant areas of agricultural science.

Agribusiness

The Agribusiness specialisation provides you with knowledge of the trends and underlying influences impacting the agribusiness value chain and the global environment. It focuses on the methods and tools relevant to business decision-making in the presence of risk and uncertainty across economics, finance and management.

Agricultural Extension and Innovation

The Agricultural Extension and Innovation specialisation will give you the knowledge to support change and innovation in farming communities, agricultural sectors and value chains, helping these groups adopt the latest science and technology and adapt to a changing environment.

Animal Science

The Animal Science specialisation is multi-disciplinary and research-oriented. You will develop an understanding of the biological and social aspects of our relationship with animals, and the impact animals have on the world. This includes animals outside the agricultural industries, such as those in zoos or sports.

Crop and Soil Sciences

Effective, sustainable and healthy crop production, crop protection, soil science and land management are fundamental to all agricultural production. If you wish to find solutions to issues in these areas, the Crop Production specialisation will help you to develop advanced knowledge in applied crop science and skills in integrating crop system concepts across multiple disciplines.

Food Sustainability

Be ready to address the challenges of creating more sustainable food systems. In this specialisation you will gain advanced knowledge of the agro-ecological and social complexity of producing and providing access to sufficient and healthy food. You will study environmental and population demands, and the policy, economy, political and nutritional dynamics of food production, distribution and consumption.

EXPAND YOUR KNOWLEDGE WITH ELECTIVES

The Master of Agricultural Sciences features more than 30 elective subjects to complement your specialisation. Electives allow you to explore broader issues in agricultural science such as:

• Animal breeding, welfare and production
• Agribusiness and economics
• Crop production
• Pest and disease management
• Agricultural land and water management
• Conservation and business management.

You could, for example, specialise in agribusiness and develop advanced knowledge of dairy production through electives. Or prepare for a career in agronomy by specialising in Crop Production but also ready yourself to manage a team via business electives.

Browse the full range of subjects here.

RESEARCH OR INTERNSHIP CAPSTONE

As part of the Master of Agricultural Sciences you will complete either a research or internship capstone subject. On graduation, you will have a project that clearly demonstrates your experience and knowledge, providing evidence you can draw on when applying for a job or further study.

Choose the research capstone and you’ll work with an academic supervisor to develop, conduct and report on a project that reflects your scientific, social or economic interest in agriculture.

If you wish to focus on industry experience, you can take the internship capstone, which involves a 200-hour work placement. You’ll work with your internship organisation to prepare an industry report or professional portfolio that showcases the knowledge and experience you have gained.

Our masters students have undertaken agricultural internships at a range of companies and organisations, including:

• Animal Welfare Science Centre
• CSIRO
• Vegetable seed company Rijk Zwaan Australia
• Agribusiness and financial services company Elders
• The Victorian Government’s Department of Jobs, Precincts and Regions
• Bulla Dairy Foods
• GippsDairy.

THE SKILLS YOU NEED FOR CAREER SUCCESS

The course curriculum has been developed in line with industry requirements, providing you with the skills and knowledge you need to address the environmental, political and scientific challenges of international food security.

You’ll gain a sound foundation in the scientific principles and analytical skills vital for plant and animal-derived food and fibre production in Australia and globally.

You will also develop the soft skills that employers demand, and that will become even more vital in the future. Your subjects have an emphasis on teamwork, and will help you develop organisational skills, creativity and problem-solving ability.

CREDIT FOR YOUR PREVIOUS STUDIES

You can choose to apply for the 200-point (2 year), 150-point (1.5 year) or 100-point (1 year) options, depending upon your level of previous study and experience in agriculture or related disciplines.

Find out more about the Master of Agricultural Sciences course structure and subjects.