University of Adelaide

What you'll study

The Bachelor of Agricultural Sciences provides a broad foundation in the biological, physical and social sciences that underpin modern agriculture, with options to specialise through electives and project work. Teaching blends lectures, laboratory work, hands-on field practicals and industry-linked placements, with strong use of the University’s Waite Research Precinct and experimental farms for applied learning.

Core topics and modules

• Plant production and agronomy – crop physiology, soil-plant interactions, pest and disease management, crop management systems.
• Animal production – livestock production systems, nutrition, breeding and welfare.
• Soil and water science – soil chemistry and physics, irrigation and water management, salinity and soil health.
• Agricultural systems and sustainability – agroecology, climate risk management, sustainable farming practices and conservation.
• Agribusiness and economics – farm management, rural economics, supply chains and marketing.
• Research, data and technologies – statistics, experimental design, remote sensing, precision agriculture and emerging technologies.
• Practical project or capstone – applied research project, industry placement or field-based capstone integrating technical and professional skills.

Students typically complete compulsory foundational courses in the first year before selecting streams and electives to tailor their degree toward production systems, environmental management, or agribusiness. There are pathways to an honours year or postgraduate study for those interested in research careers.

Entry requirements

Admission is based on successful completion of secondary schooling or an approved equivalent, with consideration of country-specific qualification equivalents and recognised alternative entry pathways for mature-age or non‑school applicants. Applicants are normally expected to have studied relevant senior secondary subjects; recommended subjects include biology, chemistry, mathematics (or mathematical methods), and agriculture where available.

International applicants must meet the University’s English language requirements. Selection may use the University’s standard rank (for example an ATAR-equivalent) and may consider supplementary information such as personal statements, referee reports or relevant work or industry experience for non‑standard applicants.

Career prospects

Graduates move into a wide range of roles across primary production, industry and research. Typical career paths include:

• Farm and production manager roles in cropping, horticulture or livestock enterprises.
• Agronomist, crop consultant or livestock advisor working with growers and industry service providers.
• Agribusiness roles in supply chain management, commodity trading, marketing and farm finance.
• Natural resource management and environmental consulting, focusing on soil health, water management and sustainable land use.
• Technical positions in seed, fertiliser, pesticide or agricultural technology companies.
• Research assistant positions and progression to honours or postgraduate research degrees leading to careers in agricultural science and policy.

Why study at University of Adelaide

The University of Adelaide offers agricultural science teaching closely connected to world-class research and industry through the Waite Research Precinct and associated experimental farms, providing strong opportunities for practical learning and industry engagement. The program emphasises applied skills, from field trials and laboratory methods to data analysis and agribusiness acumen, preparing graduates for immediate employment or further study. Students benefit from established links with South Australia’s diverse agricultural sector and access to multidisciplinary expertise across plant science, animal science, soil science and agri‑technology.