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Bachelor of Agricultural Science
- Duration: 4 years full-time (or equivalent part-time)
- Location: Gatton campus, Lockyer Valley and St Lucia campus, Brisbane
- Delivery mode: This program is generally available both internally and externally
- Entry requirements: Standard Qld Year 12 plus English, Chemistry and Mathematics B
- QTAC code: St Lucia: 704 001 Gatton: 762 019
- 2007 entry score: OP 12, Rank 75
- Honours: Available as part of standard program
What is Animal Science?
Animal Science is concerned with the scientific and business aspects of the production of beef cattle, dairy cattle, horses, poultry, sheep and/or pigs. Animal Scientists research and distribute newly discovered information regarding the biology and management of production animals. Animal Scientists also work to apply their knowledge to benefit the general public through the efficient, humane and environmentally responsible use of animals for food, companionship and recreation.
Careers in Animal Science
Agricultural Science graduates from UQ enjoy very high regard with employers; many securing jobs within the industry prior to graduating. The main advantage of studying an Agricultural Science degree at UQ is the diversity of opportunities it provides, not only through the vast choice of electives, but also through the valuable contacts made during the vocational placement you will undertake during your program. Agricultural Science graduates find employment in a variety of fields including (but not limited to):
- animal scientists in basic and applied research
- advisors in banking and other financial organisations
- agricultural extension officers
- agricultural consultants
- consultants for local and international agriculture
- secondary school teachers (on completion of Graduate Diploma in Education), and
- managers of agricultural enterprises, family and company-owned farms or agribusiness companies.
Program outline
The Bachelor of Agricultural Science is the most comprehensive of UQ’s range of agricultural programs. This program provides students with a sound knowledge of scientific, technological, management, economic, environmental and social principles associated with agriculture. The first two-and-a-half years of study provide students a solid grounding in the basic principles common to all agricultural industries and a taste of possible areas of elective study.
The sixth semester consists of a six month internship in an agricultural production enterprise, agribusiness or research institution. This placement allows you to apply what you have learnt so far and build upon your knowledge to gain valuable industry experience, developing contacts with future employment contacts at the same time.
The remainder of the program allows you to pursue your own interests through an individual research project and elective courses.
Elective study in Animal Science
The Animal Science electives include underpinning sciences and research providing a broad knowledge of the basic sciences and elements critical to animal production through courses such as animal biology, genetics, biotechnology, plant biology and animal reproduction, nutrition and production systems.
A series of applied courses such as biochemistry and nutrition, physiology and anatomy, reproduction and research methodology are included. Animal Science interests are further
developed through the internship, research project and elective courses.
Program highlights
Students complete an internship over a whole semester (13 weeks) during their study. Students also undertake a research project based within industry, government departments or the university during which they are able to investigate an area of interest in any part of Australia (students in the past have studied varied topics such as aquaculture, satellite imagery of the rangelands, grazing animal management and animal physiology throughout Queensland, the Northern Territory and further afield). Some students have gone on international exchange for a year and also have opportunities for work in developing countries.
Professional memberships
Graduates are eligible for membership of:
- The Australian Institute of Agricultural Science and Technology
- The Australian Society of Animal Production
- The Nutrition Society of Australia, and
- The Australian Association of Breeding and Genetics.
Further information: