Overview

Agricultural science addresses global food security, climate resilience, and sustainable resource management by combining biological research with technology and agribusiness principles. The Bachelor of Agriculture at La Trobe University provides a comprehensive education in plant and animal production systems, soil science, and agricultural economics. Taught across modern facilities—including the world-class AgriBio Centre for AgriBioscience, on-campus teaching farms, and dedicated research laboratories—the program emphasizes practical learning and scientific inquiry. The curriculum progresses from core modules in biology, chemistry, data analysis, and agribusiness management to specialized study paths. Students customize their degree by selecting majors in Agribusiness, Animal Science, or Plant and Soil Science, alongside electives in climate change or cross-disciplinary subjects. Emphasizing career readiness, the program integrates hands-on practical experiments, fieldwork, and compulsory work-based learning placement modules with industry partners. Designed for analytical thinkers and sustainability-minded problem solvers, this degree prepares graduates to tackle complex agricultural challenges. Graduates emerge with the scientific knowledge and practical skills necessary to apply for professional membership with Ag Institute Australia and excel in modern agricultural enterprises.

What You'll Learn

• Agricultural systems, global food security, sustainable production methods, and climate adaptation strategies

• Plant health, agronomy principles, crop protection, pest management, and plant breeding

• Animal biology, livestock health and welfare, physiological systems, and metabolic nutrition

• Soil science, land management, nutrient dynamics, and environmental conservation techniques

• Agribusiness fundamentals, supply chain logistics, agricultural economics, and rural business management

• Data analytics, statistical reasoning, scientific research methodologies, and quantitative modeling

• Entrepreneurship, innovation, professional agricultural communication, and legislative ethics

Learning Outcomes

Upon completing the programme, students will be capable of applying scientific principles and data analytics to evaluate agricultural production systems and solve real-world sustainability challenges. Graduates will demonstrate technical proficiency in assessing soil health, managing plant and animal health, and analyzing agribusiness strategies. Through compulsory work-integrated learning placements, practical lab modules, and field studies across agricultural research facilities, learners cultivate strong capabilities in scientific report writing, interprofessional teamwork, and industry problem-solving. They will critically evaluate evidence from peer-reviewed scientific sources, observe relevant legislative and regulatory frameworks, and promote sustainable practices locally and globally. Ultimately, graduates satisfy the academic standards required for membership with Ag Institute Australia, qualifying them to pursue dynamic careers as agronomists, soil scientists, agribusiness managers, animal welfare officers, biosecurity advisers, and agricultural consultants.