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Bachelor of Agricultural Science
- Duration: 4 Years Fulltime (or equivalent part-time)
- Location: St Lucia, Brisbane
- Delivery mode: This program is generally available internally and externally
- Entry requirements: Standard Qld Year 12 plus English, Chemistry and Mathematics B
- QTAC Codes: St Lucia 704 001 or Gatton 62 019
- 2006 Entry Score: OP 12, Rank 75
- Honours: Honours available as part of standard program
What is Plant and Soil Science?
Plant and soil scientists use their curiosity about science to help solve some of the most difficult problems facing the world. Plant science is the study of how plants develop, their physiology and reproduction, as well as how they interact with the environment to form complex ecosystems.
Soil science is the study of how soils form, their influence on biology, their effect on environmental chemistry and global ecological changes. Plant and Soil Science is a great career
choice for anyone interested in science or the environment, or who wants to learn about producing crops, managing soil resources or conserving natural resources.
Careers in Plant and Soil 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 program 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):
- advisors in banking and other financial organisations
- agricultural extension officers
- agricultural consultants
- scientists in basic and applied research
- 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.
Examples of graduate employment (depending on specialisation):
Agricultural advisor, agricultural inspector, agricultural scientist, animal scientist, crop physiologist, dairy technologist, farmer/ farm manager, horticultural scientist, land information systems officer, plant ecologist, political scientist.
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.
A six month internship in an agricultural production enterprise or agribusiness is undertaken in the third year. This placement allows you to apply what you have learnt to date 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 areas of interest through an individual research project and elective courses.
Elective study in Plant and Soil Science
Electives available in the area of Plant and Soil Science have a scientific research focus. Courses cover a range of fields including applied economics, agricultural biochemistry, genetics,
biotechnology, pests and production systems, animal biology, biometrics, chemistry, crop and horticultural sciences, the soil environment, land utilisation, natural resource management and communication and extension.
Program highlights
Hands-on practical experience with biological and chemical systems in the agricultural and natural environment. Students will have the opportunity to partake in many field trips. Students will also undertake an industry placement in third year with Government department scientists or agribusiness. In fourth year, students will undertake their own research project.
Dual program opportunities
Students wishing to enter teaching should complete their Bachelor program, then enrol in a Graduate Diploma of Education (1 year full-time).
Further information: