Bachelor of Agricultural Science

What is this course about?

CSU's Bachelor of Agricultural Science aims to provide graduates with the knowledge, skills and experience they require to be assets in the agricultural industries.

CSU's Bachelor of Agricultural Science is science-based, but focuses on the practical issues facing agriculture, producers, agribusiness and the environment. It provides training in the major disciplines that underpin our modern agricultural industries.

The course reflects the School of Agricultural and Wine Sciences' emphasis and commitment to new agriculture, providing students with a variety of study options that maximise their potential and career.

The foundation in science gained will be drawn upon to build an understanding of management and integration of agricultural issues and allows you to develop a strong foundation in agricultural science and related disciplines.

The course offers flexible pathway options. At the end of third year, students can choose to graduate with a Bachelor of Agriculture or go on to fourth year to complete the Bachelor of Agricultural Science, choosing either a professional placement pathway or agricultural research (Honours) pathway.

What will I learn?

Year one provides a strong foundation in the basic sciences and their importance in agriculture with all students studying chemistry, botany, microbiology, soil science and animal physiology. Students are also introduced to basic concepts in agricultural systems, data analysis, agricultural business and economics.

Year two extends your studies in the agricultural sciences with even more agricultural application of the knowledge gained. Topics studied include crop and pasture science, pasture agronomy, animal nutrition and agribusiness. Students also learn essential skills in communication, in various forms, essential for all professions regardless of career path.

Year three studies take on a management focus within agricultural disciplines. Management of plant pests and diseases, crop production, soil fertility and grazing animals are key focuses.

In year four, students choose between the professional placement pathway or agricultural research (Honours) pathway. and has been designed for those wishing to undertake a career as a professional agriculturalist whilst the agricultural research (Honours) pathway is for those wishing to pursue a career in agricultural research.

Professional placement pathway

If you choose the professional placement pathway you will undertake a four-month industry practicum as well as complete coursework. You may choose an agricultural company such as a bank, agribusiness company, agronomic consultancy, corporate farm or other agricultural service provider. During this year you will gain insight and experience into the day to day workings of agricultural industry, which will assist you in making an easy transition from study to full-time employment. You will also have the advantage of being highly sought after by employers who will be looking for graduates with the practical experience to allow them to hit the ground running.

Agricultural research (Honours) pathway

Undertaking the agricultural research (Honours) pathway involves completion of a research project on a topic of interest to the student. Coursework conducted also equips students with valuable research skills such as experimental design and data interpretation, scientific communication, and literature inquiry and review.

Your course is recognised by industry

CSU's Bachelor of Agricultural Science has been developed in consultation with many of Australia's major agricultural companies to ensure that students  gain the relevant knowledge and skills required to fill professional vacancies in the industry.

CSU's Wagga Wagga Campus is co-located with the NSW government's Wagga Wagga Agricultural Institute and the EH Graham Centre for Agricultural Innovation. The Bachelor of Agricultural Science benefits from this close association with industry incorporating the latest industry knowledge and cutting edge technology.

Graduates are eligible for membership in a variety of related professional bodies, such as the Australian Institute of Agricultural Science and Technology and the Australian Society of Soil Science Incorporated.

Credit

Students who have studied and successfully completed relevant subjects at other universities or TAFE may apply for credit for those subjects when applying to CSU's Bachelor of Agricultural Science. Credit will be granted for subjects which are equivalent in content and standard at the discretion of the Course Coordinator.

More information about credit and pathways.

Academic expectations

For each 8 point subject at CSU, students should normally expect to spend between 140-160 hours engaged in the specified learning and assessment activities (such as attending lectures or residential schools, assigned readings, tutorial assistance, individual or group research/study, forum activity, workplace learning, assignments or examinations). The student workload for some subjects may vary from these norms as a result of approved course design.

Students will be assessed on the basis of completed assignments, examinations, workplace learning, or other methods as outlined in specific subject outlines.

Where applicable, students are responsible for travel and accommodation costs involved in workplace learning experiences, or attending residential schools (distance education students).

Expectations relating to academic, workplace learning, time and cost requirements for specific subjects are provided in the subject abstracts and in course materials.