Perhaps when you think of studying agriculture all that comes to mind is fields of produce or grazing cattle. While a degree in agriculture may cover the scientific and practical aspects of farming, the field of agriculture is quite diverse with numerous specialisations, qualifications, and career paths. Australia has a reputation for being home to some of the top universities in the field allied to a thriving agricultural sector. We explore these and other reasons why to study agriculture in Australia.

Top universities for agriculture

Australia boasts some of the top institutions for the study of agricultural sciences. The U.S. News & World Report rates six Australian universities in the top 100 globally for the subject. A further eight institutions make the world’s top 250 list as per U.S. News & World Report. Similarly, the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2021 ranks six Australian institutions in the top 100 worldwide for agriculture and forestry.

Some of Australia’s best universities for studying agriculture include:

• University of Queensland
• University of Western Australia
• University of Sydney
• University of Melbourne
• Australian National University

Explore more universities for agriculture degrees in Australia.

A variety of specialisations 

Studying towards a degree in agriculture in Australia opens the opportunity to pursue different areas of interest. Many universities offer a BSc in agricultural science but also a variety of dual degrees and highly focused qualifications. For example, at the University of Western Australia, you can pursue a professional degree in agribusiness and even a dual degree combining commerce and agricultural science.

Areas of specialisation offered at Australian universities at the undergraduate level can include:

• Agricultural economics
• Agricultural technology
• Horticulture
• Animal husbandry
• Equine science
• Veterinary technology
• Wildlife science
• Fisheries management
• Viticulture
• Animal genetics

Should you wish to study at the postgraduate level there are also plenty of options. You can study both taught master’s degrees or degrees by research up to PhD level. Some of the areas of focus cover:

• Crop science
• Water and soil science
• Botany
• Agricultural management
• Food science
• Environmental management
• Animal production
• Wildlife management

If you’re thinking about studying in Australia why not explore more about the top universities in the country?

Gain practical experience

Australia has a large and dynamic agricultural sector. The country is a significant exporter of agricultural products, with the industry making a large contribution to GDP. Unsurprisingly universities have forged relationships and links with the industry, including policymakers, organisations, experts, and those working in the field.

Australia’s geographical size is another advantage of studying for an agricultural-related degree in the country. The country is home to multiple climatic conditions, landscapes, and natural environments. 

This has necessitated the creation of innovative and variable agricultural production and management techniques, from low irrigation farming to significant breakthroughs in organic cultivation. By way of example, the University of Queensland is known as a leader in the study of tropical agriculture.

As a student, you will have a front-row seat to a range of developing and specialist fields. Work experience, placements and research projects are all commonplace for students studying in the field.

An example of the close relationship between industry and universities is demonstrated by the Sydney Institute of Agriculture, based at the University of Sydney. The institute works on research into the agricultural sector in collaboration with stakeholders to produce new and transformative knowledge for the field. This includes sustainable practice, environment management, food production and the use of technology to improve systems.

Are you wondering why to study in Australia?

Good career prospects 

Graduating with a degree in the agricultural field in Australia gives you several advantages. Firstly, your degree is accredited and globally recognised. You will be able to transfer this qualification to professional practice in environments all over the world. Secondly, having graduated in Australia, there is the possibility of working in the country via the post-study visa scheme. You get to stay for three years if you have completed an undergraduate degree and five years for a PhD.

With several agricultural-related degrees on offer, you will pick up some key skills that are much sought after by employers. These can include organisational, communication, data, and project management skills. Further, these skills are transferable outside of just the agricultural field itself. Some of the work you could take up includes:

• Supply chain management and logistics
• Conservation
• Environmental consultant
• Resource management
• Project management
• Horticulturalist
• Botanist
• Estate management
• Surveyor
• Town and rural planner
• Journalist

Another positive is that almost 80 per cent of graduates in the field find employment, and seven per cent enter further studies within six months of finishing university. Jobs in the agricultural and forestry sector are estimated to grow approximately 14 per cent by 2024. It’s a good time to be studying in the field.

Now that you’re better informed about what Australia offers prospective students in the field of agriculture, you may want to widen your research. We have some insights into what it takes to apply to study in Australia and help you understand the Australian higher education system.