Charles Sturt University

What you'll study

The course develops scientific knowledge and practical skills across the farm enterprise, landscape and supply-chain scales. Teaching emphasises applied problem solving, quantitative methods and contemporary issues such as sustainability, climate variability and digital agriculture.

Structure

• The program typically comprises a mix of core units, discipline electives and a capstone research project or professional internship.
• Study modes include on-campus, blended and online delivery to suit both full‑time and part‑time students.
• Students choose between coursework streams focused on professional practice and research pathways that prepare for higher degree research.

Typical units and topics

• Agronomy and cropping systems: crop physiology, rotation design and management for yield and quality.
• Soil science and soil health: nutrient cycling, soil physics, salinity management and remediation strategies.
• Livestock production systems: nutrition, genetics, welfare and integrated pasture management.
• Integrated pest, disease and weed management: monitoring, decision thresholds and sustainable control options.
• Farm business and risk management: enterprise analysis, economics, supply-chain considerations and biosecurity.
• Precision agriculture and digital technologies: remote sensing, GPS/GIS, decision support systems and data analytics.
• Climate resilience and natural resource management: climate risk assessment, water use efficiency and landscape restoration.
• Research methods and statistics: experimental design, modelling, spatial analysis and scientific communication.
• Capstone project or thesis: applied research or industry-focused project that integrates technical skills and independent enquiry.

Entry requirements

• A recognised bachelor degree in agriculture, agricultural science, environmental science, animal science, horticulture or a closely related discipline. Equivalent qualifications and substantial relevant professional experience may also be considered.
• Applicants to the research pathway often require a stronger academic record in relevant undergraduate units and may be asked to provide a research proposal or supervisor agreement.
• Relevant practical experience in primary production, agribusiness, extension or research is highly regarded and can strengthen an application.
• Non-native English speakers must demonstrate English language proficiency through an accepted test or prior study in English, consistent with university requirements.
• Some units may have prerequisites; enrolment in specialised electives can depend on prior coursework or demonstrable experience in the topic area.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for a wide range of roles across the agricultural and allied sectors, combining technical knowledge with practical problem-solving and management skills.

• Agronomist or crop consultant advising on crop management, soil fertility and input strategies.
• Farm or enterprise manager responsible for operational planning, production optimisation and sustainability initiatives.
• Extension officer or industry advisor delivering knowledge transfer to producers and communities.
• Agribusiness roles in supply-chain management, product development, quality assurance and market analysis.
• Environmental and natural resource manager working on catchment management, water policy and land rehabilitation.
• Research scientist or technical officer in government, university or private research organisations; graduates on the research pathway may proceed to doctoral study.
• Consultant in biosecurity, precision agriculture, soil health, or sustainability planning for industry and government clients.

Why study at Charles Sturt University

• Strong regional and industry focus: Charles Sturt has established links with agricultural industries and regional communities, supporting practical placements and industry‑relevant projects.
• Applied learning and on‑farm experience: students benefit from hands‑on training, access to specialist laboratories and field sites, and practical demonstrations that reinforce classroom learning.
• Flexible delivery: multiple study modes, including online units, allow working professionals to balance study with employment in rural and remote areas.
• Research strengths and facilities: opportunities to work with researchers on applied projects in areas such as cropping systems, soil science, livestock production and digital agriculture.
• Emphasis on employability: coursework and capstone projects are designed to develop technical competence, communication skills and decision‑making abilities sought by employers in the primary industries sector.