Major overview
This course is one of 13 majors offered in the Bachelor of Advanced Science (Honours) degree.
Agricultural scientists are central to the world’s ability to sustainably feed its population.
This course offers a flexible approach to studying the science that underpins agricultural production. It has a strong focus on field trips and practical experience, with opportunities for immersive research experiences, industry placement and team-based projects.
This is a Bachelor of Advanced Science (Honours) course, designed for high-performing students to pursue their interest in science through a foundation of research, leadership and entrepreneurship.
You’ll graduate with the scientific knowledge and leadership skills to lead agricultural industries into the future, and help address global issues, such as food security and sustainable production.
Graduates from this course will have an industry-ready understanding of the science and technology required for the productive and sustainable use of plants and animals in agricultural production systems.
How to study this major
A major is a set of eight or more units you complete as part of a degree, including at least two in your final year. To study this major, you’ll need to apply for one of the degrees listed below.
Career outcomes
Careers
- Agricultural manager/consultant
- Agricultural and resource economist
- Agricultural scientist/technologist
- Agronomist
- Biotechnologist
- Climate scientist
- Soil scientist
Industries
- Agriculture and precision agriculture
- Agricultural marketing
- Plant and animal breeding
- Farming and farmer grower groups
- Agricultural supply chain logistics
- International agricultural aid
- Food security
- Biosecurity
- Agricultural chemicals
Professional accreditation and recognition
Graduates are eligible to commence the Australian Institute of Agricultural Science’s professional development for Certified Practising Agriculturalist.
Why study at Curtin?
Professional recognition
Graduates of this Advanced Science course are eligible to commence the Australian Institute of Agricultural Science’s professional development for Certified Practising Agriculturalist.
Advanced industry research
Engage with the Centre for Crop and Disease Management for unique learning and career opportunities.
Work experience
Benefit from work-integrated learning experiences from your first year.
Hear from our students
"Growing up on a farm, I’ve always been passionate about agriculture. This course, with its strong focus on research and science, has equipped me with valuable skills and expanded my knowledge of agricultural systems The supportive environment at Curtin, coupled with networking opportunities through the Curtin Agricultural Association, has prepared me well for a future in agricultural research."
Thomas Richardson
Bachelor of Advanced Science (Agricultural Science) (Honours)
Major structure
What you’ll learn
You’ll study broadacre cropping and livestock production systems through research-led activities, problem-solving and self-directed experiments using the Curtin field trial area and glasshouse facilities.
Your studies will include advanced molecular biology and genetic experiments at Curtin’s new laboratories, and you’ll be introduced to satellite-based technologies used in precision agriculture for crop, pasture and livestock management systems.
You’ll also work in multidisciplinary teams with students in other advanced science courses, to explore global issues such as food security, sustainability and climate change.
In your second and third years, you’ll have opportunities to source immersive work experience and internships, which can be used for course credit. In your third year, you'll participate in field tours in Western Australia's grain belt.
In addition, you'll engage with leading researchers, such as those in the Curtin-based Centre for Crop Disease Management – Australia’s foremost research group for developing solutions to crop pathogens, which could open up more career options.
How this course will make you industry ready
This course has a strong focus on practical agricultural experience and field trips. Throughout your second and third year you’ll have opportunities to source immersive work experience and internships.
Graduates from this course will have an industry-ready understanding of the science and technology required for the productive and sustainable use of plants and animals in agricultural production systems.
Detailed course structure and unit information
For detailed information and course structure, visit our Handbook.
How to apply
This major is part of a degree. To apply, choose the degree you want to study and review its entry requirements. Then, prepare any required documents and submit your application before the deadline for your chosen intake.
After you receive and accept your offer, you can enrol in this degree either at the start of your degree or later in your studies, depending on your course structure.
Choose your degree
To study this major, you'll need to apply one of the degrees listed below.Explore more
Find more resources to help you take the next step in your Curtin journey.