Australian agriculture is a key part of the world's food supply system. The challenges of a rapidly growing population, climate change, and the limitations of land and fresh water all impact on the ability of agriculture to meet the demand for food, fibre and fuel. To address this demand, an understanding of the complex factors that shape agricultural systems is necessary. UWA is well equipped for teaching and research in agricultural science, with a field station at Shenton Park and the University's new research farm near Pingelly, which aims to be self-supporting, sustainable, carbon-neutral, clean, green and ethical – a best practice farm. Teaching in agricultural science is also supported by the outstanding research and outreach activities of the Institute of Agriculture, the Centre for Legumes in Mediterranean Agriculture (CLIMA), the International Centre for Plant Breeding Education and Research (ICPBER) and the Australian Herbicide Resistance Initiative (AHRI).

This course prepares students with the knowledge and skills they need for a future in the rapidly evolving field of agricultural science. There is a shortage of agricultural science graduates and career opportunities range from the laboratory to the field, from the city to rural areas, as breeders, agronomist, farm managers, market development officers, journalists and bankers. Graduates are employed as consultants, managers or researchers, by government agencies, universities, consulting firms, food industries, fertiliser companies, and international agencies. "Career Harvest" is a website launched by the Australian Council of Deans Of Agriculture to assist with finding professional careers in agriculture.