University of Melbourne

What you'll study

The Bachelor of Agriculture covers core principles of plant and animal production, soil science, agronomy, pest and disease management, and the socio‑economic aspects of farming systems. Teaching blends classroom learning with hands‑on fieldwork in farm and laboratory settings, and typically includes units on genetics and breeding, crop physiology, livestock production, sustainable land management, and agricultural systems modelling.

Typical subjects and topics include:

• Soil science and nutrient management – soil properties, fertility and remediation.
• Crop production and agronomy – crop physiology, rotations and harvest management.
• Animal production systems – nutrition, health and welfare of livestock.
• Pest, disease and weed management – integrated pest management and biosecurity.
• Agricultural ecology and sustainability – climate impacts, land use and conservation practices.
• Agribusiness and farm management – farm economics, supply chains and decision support tools.
• Precision agriculture and data analytics – remote sensing, sensors and farm‑scale data use.
• Research and capstone projects – applied research, field trials and industry placements.

The program structure typically includes foundational science and mathematics in early semesters, followed by discipline‑specific electives and a major capstone or research project in later years. Students can often tailor their studies through elective streams or minors to focus on areas such as plant systems, animal systems or agribusiness.

Entry requirements

Entry is competitive and applicants are expected to have completed secondary education or an equivalent qualification. Strong preparation in science and mathematics is advantageous, with chemistry and a level of senior secondary mathematics commonly recommended. Australian applicants normally apply through the central admissions system; mature‑age applicants and those with other tertiary qualifications may be considered via alternative entry pathways.

International applicants should hold a qualification equivalent to Australian senior secondary completion and meet the University’s English language requirements. The Faculty considers academic performance, prerequisite subjects and any additional portfolio or supplementary information where applicable.

Career prospects

Graduates of the Bachelor of Agriculture find work across the primary industries, agribusiness, government and research sectors. Career pathways include:

• Agronomist or crop consultant working with growers on production and management.
• Soil scientist or land management advisor in environmental and conservation roles.
• Livestock and animal production specialist for commercial enterprises or extension services.
• Agribusiness roles in supply chain management, marketing and farm finance.
• Precision agriculture and agri‑technology roles involving data analytics and remote sensing.
• Research and technical positions in industry, government agencies or research institutes, and progression to honours and postgraduate research degrees.

Graduates are also well placed to move into policy development, sustainability planning, farm management, and consultancy roles within the broader food and fibre industries.

Why study at University of Melbourne

The University of Melbourne offers an agriculture degree built on strong scientific research and practical, field‑based teaching. Students benefit from access to agricultural teaching facilities, field sites and laboratory resources, alongside opportunities for industry placements and applied research projects. The Faculty maintains links with regional producers, research organisations and agricultural businesses, providing pathways into industry and research careers.

Studying at Melbourne also provides a broad university education with opportunities to combine agricultural studies with complementary disciplines, such as environmental science, business or data science, allowing graduates to address complex challenges in sustainable food production and rural industries.