Bachelor of Agriculture at Charles Sturt University

Bachelor of Agriculture

CSU's Bachelor of Agriculture provides graduates with the opportunity to obtain the knowledge and skills in agriculture required to operate in our modern agricultural industries.

About the course

Agriculture is facing many new challenges and demands. The way ahead is not the way of the past. We need new ideas, new ways of learning, new ways of producing, we need 'new agriculture'. It is vital that our graduates are well trained, skilled, knowledgeable, dynamic thinkers, who are confident and job ready. It is our aim at CSU to produce graduates with these qualities - graduates who can meet the challenges faced, who can make a difference in the industry and who can help feed the world with new agriculture.

The degree is science-based, but focuses on the practical issues facing agriculture, producers, agribusiness and the environment. The science aspect of the course forms a foundation, which is drawn upon to build understanding of management and integration of agricultural issues and allows students to gain a strong foundation in agricultural science and related disciplines.

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.

CSU’s School of Agricultural and Wine Sciences has long been considered a world leader in agricultural education and is located in one of the most productive regions in south-eastern Australia. CSU's Bachelor of Agriculture is the choice for anyone considering a career in agriculture because of its:

rural location on Wagga Wagga Campus
highly qualified, experienced and committed teaching and technical staff
co-location with the Department of Primary Industries Wagga Wagga Agricultural Institute and the EH Graham Centre for Agricultural Innovation
practical, relevant and up-to-date subjects offered in its industry recognised and respected degrees.

Course outline

Years one and two 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.

Years three and four 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.

Years five and six 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.

Where it will take you

A diverse range of career opportunities is available to graduates. Using this degree as a vocational tool, you can expect to pursue a career as:

an agronomist
a livestock/animal production specialist
a farm manager
an agricultural merchandise representative
an agricultural researcher
a land care coordinators/manager
an advisory and technical consultant
a teacher
a journalist
an irrigation specialist
a marketing professional
a rural financial supply officer
a parks and recreations officer

Using the degree as a general qualification, students can find employment in many areas outside science and agriculture.

Your course is recognised by industry

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.

The latest facilities

As well as the rich resources in the region, students have an array of state-of-the-art teaching and research facilities available for practical experience. These include:

extensive and diverse farming facilities on a 640ha University farm
the most sophisticated underground root growth laboratory (drainage lysimeter) in the southern hemisphere
access to a range of mixed farms and agricultural research institutions
five state-of-the-art laboratories
extensive computer facilities
strong links with Department of Primary Industries (the Wagga Wagga Agricultural Institute is right next door)
working models of a full range of irrigation systems for teaching and research (linear move, overhead sprinklers, drip irrigation systems, furrows, beds, flood and paddy)
demonstration of drainage, soil moisture measurement and waste water monitoring
strong links with industry (partner in the National Irrigation Education Initiative), particularly in the Murrumbidgee and Coleambally Irrigation Areas

Our dedicated and caring staff are committed to providing the highest quality education in a uniquely rural, equal opportunities environment.

Credit

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

Graduation requirements

To graduate from the Bachelor of Agriculture, students must satisfactorily complete 192 points as specified in the course structure.

Further study

Graduates may have the opportunity transfer into the Bachelor of Agricultural Science (on campus only) or enrol in a Bachelor of Science (Honours), which will provide a pathway into postgraduate studies through Master and Doctoral programs at CSU.

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