Overview
Overview
Food production and security are increasingly important issues for developed and emerging economies, and Australia has the potential to be a leader in providing solutions for sustainable, economical and ethical food production.
Agriculture is the science and practice of food and fibre production, and the discipline of agricultural science is multidisciplinary – building from the basics of biology, chemistry and statistics to areas of agricultural systems that include soil science, crop science, animal science and molecular genetics.
In this course, you'll gain an industry-ready understanding of the science and technology required for the production of plants and animals for food and fibre.
You’ll study topics ranging from overarching issues such as food security, sustainability and climate change, to the specifics of crop and animal production and soil health.
You’ll also be introduced to satellite-based technologies used in precision agriculture for crop, pasture and livestock management systems, and you’ll engage with Curtin-based research centres.
Agricultural Science is available as a major in our Bachelor of Science and our Bachelor of Advanced Science (Honours).
What jobs can the Agricultural Science course lead to?
With food production and security being important issues for developed and emerging economies, careers in agricultural production and development are available worldwide. You'll also find career options in research, extension and service provision to agriculture and horticulture industries.
Careers
- Agricultural manager/consultant
- Agricultural and resource economist
- Agricultural scientist
- Agricultural technologist
- Agronomist
- Biotechnologist
- Climate scientist
- Plant breeder
- Soil scientist
Industries
- Agriculture and precision agriculture
- Agriculture and grain marketing
- Plant and animal breeding
- Farming
- Agricultural supply-chain logistics
- Biosecurity
- Food security
- Farm grower groups
- Government agriculture departments
- International agricultural aid
- Agricultural chemicals
What you'll learn
- have demonstrated knowledge and understanding in agricultural science that is typically at a level that, whilst supported by advanced textbooks, includes some aspects that will be informed by knowledge of the forefront of agricultural science, GC1
- can apply their knowledge and understanding in a manner that indicates a professional approach to agricultural science, and have competencies typically demonstrated through devising and sustaining arguments (to both specialist and non-specialist audiences) and solving problems within agricultural science, GC2
- understand the constructs of the scientific method and apply these principles in agricultural science using digital technologies, GC3
- can gather and interpret relevant data within agricultural science to inform judgements that include reflection on relevant social, scientific, or ethical issues, including being aware of the diversity of international perspectives associated with agricultural science, and how these impact upon the practice of agricultural science, GC4
- understand and appreciate cultural diversity and how it impacts on the practice of agricultural science, GC5
- display a high standard of professional behaviour, including effective time management, both independently and as a team member, GC6