This is one of the only agriculture degrees in Australia with a vocational focus. You'll develop knowledge of the science, business and environmental aspects of agriculture, alongside a major in your chosen field: agribusiness, crop and pasture agronomy, viticulture and winemaking, or aquaculture. Your studies will prepare you to take on a variety of roles in agriculture including working as an agronomist, agri-business manager, aquaculture producer, winemaker or vineyard manager. This degree is delivered in partnership with Melbourne Poytechnic. You'll study through a combination of online lectures and tutorials, field studies, lab work and practical placements at various Melbourne Polytechnic campuses. The Epping campus is equipped with energy efficient laboratories and facilities to study fish and algae, while Ararat has 28 hectares of vineyards. Farms at Yan Yean and Northern Lodge 12 kilometres North of Epping are used for applied research and practical experience. In first year you'll take core subjects covering agricultural systems and technology, rural business management, and food production. You'll also choose electives such as international wine styles, biology of fish, animal anatomy and physiology, and agrieconomics. In second and third year you'll take on specialised study in your chosen major as well as participate in an industry placement program. You'll also develop an understanding of the effects of factors such as climate change, biotechnology and a growing population. We work closely with industry professionals to make sure our course content is current and relevant. You'll have the opportunity to complete work placements with our partner organisations including Environmental Earth Sciences, Yarra Valley Wine Growers Association, Ecovinia International and individual wineries such as Plunketts.

There is an ongoing demand for skilled agricultural science graduates with economics and management training in the $30 billion food and fibre industry. There are excellent job prospects in the banking industry, large agribusiness firms, agribusiness consultancies, state and federal governments, commodity trading companies, humanitarian organisations and agencies such as the United Nations.