Master of Science in Agriculture

Overview

Upgrade your skills and develop your expertise with science-based agricultural studies through UNE's Master of Science in Agriculture. Our flexible program of specialist coursework allows you to steer your studied towards your interests and shape the direction of your career within the agricultural industry. We offer a range of specialisations, including animal science, meat science, genetics and animal breeding, and agronomy and soil science.

Choose from a wide range of units, covering all aspects of the agricultural industry and receive a comprehensive introduction to research skills and research methodology. You can also undertake a research project supervised by our world-class researchers.

UNE is a leading innovator in teaching and research in the agricultural sciences. Your advanced knowledge and skillset will prepare you for high-level work in this rapidly evolving industry.

Why study the Master of Science in Agriculture with UNE?

If you are seeking to upgrade your knowledge or skills in the agricultural industry, or you have a a degree in another field of study and are aiming to transition into the agricultural industry, UNE's Master of Science in Agriculture is the course for you.

For over 60 years UNE has been at the forefront of agricultural education and research. The visionary, pioneering work carried out by Professor Bill McClymont at UNE laid the groundwork for our modern understanding of agricultural systems. McClymont's holistic model is still used to maximise production without losing focus on sustainable ecological, economic, social and environmental contexts. UNE maintains close links with the agricultural industry derived from our long experience in the teaching and research of agriculture.

Our facilities are some of the best Australia has to offer. You will have access to the latest agricultural technology and techniques at our innovative SMART Farms including our production feedlot at Tullimba.

Our Master of Science in Agriculture is informed by our innovative teaching and research. You will undertake coursework and research designed to provide advanced knowledge and develop a range of skills, relevant to your background and areas of interest. As an introduction to research you will complete two core research skills and methodology units which will enhance your understanding of the role of research in future proofing agriculture. You can also focus your coursework units in an area of specialisation.

Additional units of study that make up your coursework are chosen from a comprehensive list of units, including many on the social, economic and environmental contexts of agriculture that influence our understanding of agriculture and the environment.

You can tailor your course to meet the needs of your career in the agricultural industry and to graduate with expertise in your field of interest.

What makes our course different?

Through our Master of Science in Agriculture you can:

Direct your career by choosing to focus your study in a particular area such as animal science, meat science, genetics and animal breeding, cotton production, grains production, agronomy, and soil science.

Build advanced knowledge and focused skills to enhance your career by choosing from a wide range of units that align to your unique professional goals.

Enhance your critical thinking, problem-solving and communication skills to gain a competitive advantage in any agricultural industry setting.

Be part of a vibrant research-led academic community.

Study flexibly either on campus or online to suit your lifestyle and other commitments. Please note that some units have mandatory intensive schools on campus.

Undertake a major research project and dissertation if you achieve the required grades in the two research skills and methodology coursework units. This option can allow you to proceed to higher degree research through a PhD.

This is an approved Student Income Support course. Eligible students may apply for Youth Allowance or Austudy.

By choosing UNE, you are choosing an industry leader in the provision of online lifelong learning. Year after year, our students award UNE the maximum 5-star ratings for Overall Experience and Student Support in The Good Universities Guide.

Study online

Most of our students choose to study online across three study periods with 24/7 tutor support* and fit study around work and family commitments. Uniquely, our online students are mostly over 30 and bring valuable experience with them. They form a community of adults juggling the same challenges and priorities and who bring their life and work experience together at UNE in order to become future-fit and better respond to a rapidly changing world.

Study on campus

Many of our students choose to take advantage of the on-campus lifestyle in Armidale, in the beautiful New England region, with access to unparalleled support, accommodation and sporting facilities. These students are often starting their first degree and have left school recently. Through access to academic and career support they get a fantastic start to their careers.

* 24/7 tutor support includes: essay feedback (within 24 hours); live chat 24/7 for generic feedback on academic writing; and subject-specific help at a foundation or first-year level for subjects including mathematics, chemistry, biology, physics, business, accounting, microeconomics, macroeconomics and statistics. There are also a wide range of workshops, resources and courses available in academic skills support to assist you and help you to succeed.