Bachelor of Agriculture (B-AGR)

You’re currently viewing the 2019 version of this course

Overview

Award title	Bachelor of Agriculture
Year & campus	2019 — Parkville
CRICOS code	037228G
Fees information	Subject EFTSL, level, discipline and census date
Study level & type	Undergraduate Coursework
AQF level	7
Credit points	300 credit points
Duration	36 months full-time or 72 months part-time

The Bachelor of Agriculture provides students with a sound understanding of the structure and operation of agricultural production industries of Australia, as well as an understanding of Australia’s role in global food and fibre production.

Students will develop an understanding of fundamental scientific concepts, and will learn to apply this understanding to a range of agricultural contexts, including precision farming.

Through core studies at each year level, students will develop an integrated and multidisciplinary understanding of agricultural science, and of the social, political, and economic drivers of resource management, agricultural development and sustainability.

At the same time, depth of understanding in a chosen major in Plant and Soil Science, Production Animal Science or Agricultural Economics, will equip students with the knowledge, skills and aptitudes required to assess and improve performance in agricultural industries, to ensure long term sustainability, and to contribute as leaders in agricultural industries and communities.

Students will be involved in study at both the Dookie and Parkville campuses (with the option of a full time program of study at the Dookie campus in Semester 2 of second year). Students will also have an opportunity to undertake extra-mural vacation industry placements.

Links to further information

http://fvas.unimelb.edu.au/study/courses/bachelor-of-agriculture/overview

Entry requirements

In order to be considered for entry, applicants must have completed: one of

(a) the Victorian Certificate of Education including:

VCE Units 3 and 4 – either a study score of at least 25 in one of English, English Language or Literature or a study score of at least 30 in English as an Additional Language, and
VCE Units 3 and 4 – either a study score of at least 25 in one of Mathematical Methods (CAS) or Specialist Mathematics, or a study score of at least 30 in Further Mathematics;

(b) the International Baccalaureate Diploma including

at least Grade 4 in English or English B (Standard Level or Higher Level), and
at least Grade 5 in Mathematical Studies (SL) or at least Grade 4 in Mathematical Studies (HL), Mathematics or Further Mathematics;

(c) a senior secondary program, foundation studies program or equivalent approved by the Academic Board including appropriate English language and Mathematics studies.

Except for applicants eligible for Access Melbourne, minimum ATAR or equivalent overall performance rankings apply http://futurestudents.unimelb.edu.au/admissions/access_melbourne_and_equity_programs/access-melbourne).

Meeting these requirements does not guarantee selection.

2. In ranking applications, the Selection Committee will consider:

Prior academic performance

3. The Selection Committee may seek further information to clarify any aspect of an application in accordance with the Academic Board rules on the use of selection instruments.

4. For applicants who have not completed the Victorian Certificate of Education or the International Baccalaureate Diploma, the undergraduate English language requirements (http://futurestudents.unimelb.edu.au/admissions/entry-requirements/language-requirements) must be met.

Note. For applications through the Victorian Tertiary Admission Centre, “middle-band” selection adjustments are made only on the basis of eligibility for Access Melbourne.

Inherent requirements (core participation requirements)

It is University policy to take all reasonable steps to minimise the impact of disability upon academic study, and reasonable adjustments will be made to enhance a student's participation in the University's programs. This course requires all students to enrol in subjects where they must actively and safely contribute to field excursions and laboratory activities. Students who feel their disability will impact on meeting this requirement are encouraged to discuss this matter with the Subject Coordinator and Disability Liaison (8344 0836 or disability-liaison@unimelb.edu.au or visit http://services.unimelb.edu.au/disability for further information ).

A core participation requirement of this course is that students agree to be vaccinated against Q Fever. Q Fever is a relatively common preventable condition which, while rarely fatal, can cause a severe acute illness and can result in damage to heart valves and chronic fatigue. A number of subjects offered in this course may place students at risk of exposure to Q Fever.

Q Fever screening and vaccination can be arranged through the University Health Service. The cost of the vaccination program is separate to tuition fees.

Further information: http://students.fvas.unimelb.edu.au/admin/q-fever

Intended learning outcomes

Key learning objectives of the course are to develop in our students:

Abilities to critically evaluate options, and formulate plans that will ensure long term industry and environmental sustainability
A 'systems-thinking' approach to agricultural production and land management, including an understanding of: the structures of agriculture-related industries; the principal factors that determine location, environmental impact, sustainability, profitability and international trade competitiveness
An understanding of how agriculture and other land uses (including agro-forestry) influence the landscape
Breadth and depth of knowledge relevant to agriculture, and the ability to critically evaluate knowledge gained from a range of scientific, economic and social sources
Skills to effectively analyse, and scientifically evaluate agricultural and environmental problems and reach appropriate solutions
The ability to communicate and discuss scientific and industry information with relevant stakeholders
Effective communication skills in a variety of media and settings
The capacity for initiating and maintaining cooperative relationships with colleagues, employers and clients
Effective team collaboration and leadership skills
The ability to collect, analyse and interpret agricultural and environmental data for appropriate decision making
An understanding of the research methodologies necessary to design, conduct and interpret small scientific research projects
A commitment to the highest standards of academic and intellectual integrity, and an acceptance of the community responsibilities of citizenship befitting their professional standing

Generic skills

The Bachelor of Agriculture aims to provide students with:

The capacity for independent critical thought, rational inquiry and self-directed learning and research
An ability to derive, interpret and analyse ecological, biological, social, technical or economic information from primary sources
Highly developed written communication skills to allow informed dialogue with individuals and groups from industry, government and the community
An ability to participate effectively as part of a team
An ability to plan work, use time effectively and manage small projects

Graduate attributes

Graduates of the Bachelor of Agriculture will be:

Scientists equipped with the knowledge and skills to contribute to the agricultural sector and the profession of agricultural science as soil scientists, agronomists and plant scientists, animal scientists, agricultural economists or social scientists
Confident in their ability to solve problems, create new knowledge, and apply knowledge and skills to create solutions
Flexible and energetic team players who can communicate effectively with a wide range of stakeholders
Aware of their role as leaders locally, nationally and globally in ensuring sustainable agricultural production outcomes

Course structure

The Bachelor of Agriculture consists of 300 course points overall.

150 points of course core subjects:
- 8 core Level 1 subjects (8 x 12.5 points)
- 3 core Level 2 subjects (3 x 12.5 points)
- 1 core Level 3 subject (1 x 12.5 points)
37.5 points as completion of one of three prescribed majors
- 3 prescribed Level 3 subjects for the major (3 x 12.5 points)
25 points of B-AGR electives at Level 3
50 points of B-AGR electives at Level 2. Selected subjects to include prerequisites for student’s intended major. Selected subjects can include Dookie option.
37.5 points of additional B-AGR electives where
- No more than 25 points at Level 1

Progression: Students must complete at least 50 points of study at one subject year Level before attempting enrolment in a subject at the next subject year Level.

Subject options

The following description represents a full time enrolment. A part-time enrolment would be a variation of this.

Year 1 - 100 points

All core subjects

Code	Name	Study period	Credit Points
		Semester 1 (On Campus - Parkville) Semester 2 (On Campus - Parkville)
AGRI10045	Foundations of Agricultural Sciences 1	Semester 1 (On Campus - Parkville)	12.5
AGRI10046	Foundations of Agricultural Sciences 2	Semester 2 (On Campus - Parkville)	12.5
AGRI10047	Agriculture in Australia	Semester 1 (On Campus - Parkville)	12.5
AGRI10048	Plant Production Systems	Semester 2 (On Campus - Parkville)	12.5
AGRI10049	Animal Production Systems	Semester 2 (On Campus - Parkville)	12.5
ENVS10001	Natural Environments	Semester 1 (On Campus - Parkville)	12.5
AGRI10050	Agricultural Systems Biology	Semester 1 (On Campus - Parkville)	12.5
AGRI10051	Genetics for Agriculture	Semester 2 (On Campus - Parkville)	12.5

Year 2 - 100 points

Three core subjects

Code	Name	Study period	Credit Points
AGRI20038	Principles of Soil Science	Semester 2 (On Campus - Dookie) Semester 2 (On Campus - Parkville)	12.5
AGRI20043	Biochemistry in Agricultural Systems	Semester 1 (On Campus - Parkville)	12.5
AGRI20042	Agricultural Economics	Semester 1 (On Campus - Parkville)	12.5

(Note. AGRI20043 is a course core subject for students commencing from 2018 onwards. It is not a course core subject for students commencing the B-AGR prior to 2018, however it is recommended that all students complete it).

Plus 62.5 points of B-AGR Electives - or, for students who commenced prior to 2018, 75 points of B-AGR electives.

A student’s choice of electives in Year 2 is informed by prerequisites for selected subjects at Level 3 in Year 3, including the required Level 3 subjects in the student’s selected major
In Year 2 students should select Level 2 subjects as per course progression rules.

Recommended Level 2 B-AGR electives, based on intended major:

Production Animal Science major:

Code	Name	Study period	Credit Points
AGRI20003	Sustainable Food Systems	July (On Campus - Dookie)	12.5
AGRI20036	Ecology and Grazing Management	Semester 2 (On Campus - Parkville) Semester 2 (On Campus - Dookie)	12.5
ANSC20001	Animal Physiology and Growth	Semester 1 (On Campus - Parkville)	12.5
ANSC20002	Comparative Nutrition and Digestion	Semester 2 (On Campus - Parkville)	12.5
AGRI20044	Microbiology in Agriculture	Semester 1 (On Campus - Parkville)	12.5

Plant and Soil Science major:

Code	Name	Study period	Credit Points
AGRI20003	Sustainable Food Systems	July (On Campus - Dookie)	12.5
AGRI20026	Plant Growth Processes	Semester 1 (On Campus - Parkville)	12.5
AGRI20036	Ecology and Grazing Management	Semester 2 (On Campus - Parkville) Semester 2 (On Campus - Dookie)	12.5
AGRI20037	Crop Production and Management	Semester 2 (On Campus - Parkville)	12.5
AGRI20044	Microbiology in Agriculture	Semester 1 (On Campus - Parkville)	12.5

Agricultural Economics major:

There are no specific recommended elective subjects in Year 2 for this major.

Dookie Campus Option

Students who select to undertake studies in semester 2, Year 2 at the Dookie Campus enrol in four prescribed subjects. One of these subjects is a course core (AGRI20038 Principles of Soil Science). The remaining three are approved Level 2 B-AGR Electives.

Code	Name	Study period	Credit Points
AGRI20035	Applied Crop Production and Horticulture	Semester 2 (On Campus - Dookie)	12.5
AGRI20036	Ecology and Grazing Management	Semester 2 (On Campus - Parkville) Semester 2 (On Campus - Dookie)	12.5
AGRI20038	Principles of Soil Science	Semester 2 (On Campus - Dookie) Semester 2 (On Campus - Parkville)	12.5
AGRI20040	Enterprise Management	Semester 2 (On Campus - Dookie)	12.5

Students undertaking the Dookie Campus option are expected to enrol in all four subjects. Completion of the Dookie Campus option does not preclude a student from undertaking any of the three majors in the course.

Additional costs (transport/accommodation) apply for students undertaking the Dookie Campus option.

Year 3 - 100 points

Core subject

Code	Name	Study period	Credit Points
AGRI30038	Professional Practice for Agriculture	Semester 2 (On Campus - Dookie) Semester 2 (On Campus - Parkville)	12.5

Major

37.5 points

In Year 3 students in the Bachelor of Agriculture choose a major from one of the following:

Production Animal Science
Plant and Soil Science
Agricultural Economics

The major is comprised of 37.5 points at Level 3. The combination of subjects available within each major differentiate it from other majors. Students will need to complete Level 2 prerequisites prior to enrolment in the Level 3 subjects of the major.

The balance of points to make up the required 300 course points can be selected from the following list of B-AGR electives. Select a minimum 25 points at Level 3. Select no more than 25 points at Level 1.

NB. Some of these subjects have prerequisites.

Code	Name	Study period	Credit Points
		February (On Campus - Dookie) July (On Campus - Dookie) Semester 2 (On Campus - Parkville) Semester 1 (On Campus - Parkville) September (On Campus - Dookie) Semester 2 (On Campus - Dookie) July (On Campus - Parkville) September (On Campus - Parkville) Summer Term (On Campus - Parkville) Not available in 2019
AGRI10039	Australia in the Wine World	February (On Campus - Dookie) July (On Campus - Dookie) Semester 2 (On Campus - Parkville)	12.5
ANSC10001	Animals in Society 1: Introduction	Semester 2 (On Campus - Parkville)	12.5
FOOD10001	Beer Styles and Sensory Analysis	Semester 1 (On Campus - Parkville)	12.5
UNIB10009	Food for a Healthy Planet	Semester 1 (On Campus - Parkville)	12.5
AGRI20003	Sustainable Food Systems	July (On Campus - Dookie)	12.5
AGRI20026	Plant Growth Processes	Semester 1 (On Campus - Parkville)	12.5
AGRI20027	Vine to Wine	February (On Campus - Dookie)	12.5
AGRI20030	Australia in the Wine World	February (On Campus - Dookie) July (On Campus - Dookie) September (On Campus - Dookie)	12.5
AGRI20035	Applied Crop Production and Horticulture	Semester 2 (On Campus - Dookie)	12.5
AGRI20036	Ecology and Grazing Management	Semester 2 (On Campus - Parkville) Semester 2 (On Campus - Dookie)	12.5
AGRI20037	Crop Production and Management	Semester 2 (On Campus - Parkville)	12.5
AGRI20040	Enterprise Management	Semester 2 (On Campus - Dookie)	12.5
AGRI20041	Principles of Farm Practice Change	Semester 2 (On Campus - Parkville)	12.5
ANSC20001	Animal Physiology and Growth	Semester 1 (On Campus - Parkville)	12.5
ANSC20002	Comparative Nutrition and Digestion	Semester 2 (On Campus - Parkville)	12.5
ANSC20005	Companion Animal Biology	Semester 1 (On Campus - Parkville)	12.5
ANSC20003	Topics in Animal Health	Semester 2 (On Campus - Parkville)	12.5
ANSC20004	Animals and Society 2: Humans & Animals	Semester 2 (On Campus - Parkville)	12.5
FOOD20007	Principles of Brewing	July (On Campus - Dookie)	12.5
AGRI20044	Microbiology in Agriculture	Semester 1 (On Campus - Parkville)	12.5
UNIB20012	Water for Sustainable Futures	Semester 1 (On Campus - Parkville)	12.5
UNIB20014	Food For a Healthy Planet II	Semester 2 (On Campus - Parkville)	12.5
AGRI30011	Innovation Change & Knowledge Transfer	July (On Campus - Dookie)	12.5
AGRI30016	Irrigation and Water Management	July (On Campus - Dookie)	12.5
AGRI30030	Livestock Production Systems	Semester 1 (On Campus - Parkville)	12.5
AGRI30033	Farm Management Economics	Semester 1 (On Campus - Parkville)	12.5
AGRI30037	Soil Management	Semester 1 (On Campus - Parkville)	12.5
AGRI30039	Applied Farm Economic Analysis	July (On Campus - Parkville)	12.5
AGRI30040	Agribusiness Marketing & Value Chains	September (On Campus - Parkville)	12.5
AGRI30041	Industry Internship	Summer Term (On Campus - Parkville) Semester 2 (On Campus - Parkville)	12.5
AGRI30042	Plant Pathology	Semester 1 (On Campus - Parkville)	12.5
AGRI30043	Resource Management Economics	Semester 2 (On Campus - Parkville)	12.5
AGRI30044	Agricultural Trade and Policy	Not available in 2019	12.5
AGRI30045	Applications in Precision Agriculture	Semester 2 (On Campus - Parkville)	12.5
AGRI30046	Agronomy	Not available in 2019	12.5
AGRI30047	Soil Fertility and Nutrient Management	Not available in 2019	12.5
AGRI30048	Plant Breeding and Genetics	Semester 2 (On Campus - Parkville)	12.5
ANSC30001	Animal Disease Biotechnology 1	Semester 1 (On Campus - Parkville)	12.5
ANSC30002	Animal Disease Biotechnology 2	Semester 2 (On Campus - Parkville)	12.5
ANSC30003	Applied Animal Behaviour	Semester 1 (On Campus - Parkville)	12.5
ANSC30004	Applied Animal Reproduction & Genetics	Semester 1 (On Campus - Parkville)	12.5
ANSC30005	Animal Welfare and Ethics	Semester 2 (On Campus - Parkville)	12.5
ANSC30006	Production Animal Health	Semester 1 (On Campus - Parkville)	12.5
ANSC30007	Managing Production Animal Health	Semester 2 (On Campus - Parkville)	12.5
ANSC30008	Production Animal Physiology	Semester 2 (On Campus - Parkville) Semester 2 (On Campus - Dookie)	12.5

Majors, minors & specialisations

Name	Credit Points
Production Animal Science	37.5
Plant and Soil Science	37.5
Agricultural Economics	37.5

Further study

Students may wish to continue their undergraduate studies and undertake their Honours year.

The Faculty offers excellent opportunities for students to pursue postgraduate studies in the fields of agricultural science incorporating streams within animal science, crop science, food security and agribusiness; food science; agribusiness and wine technology and viticulture. Programs available include Graduate Certificates, Graduate Diplomas, Masters (by coursework), Masters (by research) and Doctoral degrees.

Q Fever