Rural Science

Overview

With the Bachelor of Rural Science from University of New England, you will have the paddock-ready scientific skills to adapt to future challenges as a professional, and you will gain an understanding of the sustainability of the whole agricultural system from the biophysical (soils, plants and animal production) including environmental, social and economic principles.

You will be fit for the future and well positioned to become a leader in a range of industry contexts from farm management, the corporate world and scientific research.

Why study the Bachelor of Rural Science with UNE?

UNE's four-year Bachelor of Rural Science will equip you with the sought-after knowledge and practical skillset that the industry needs in a rapidly changing world. You will graduate with a deep, science-based understanding of complex agricultural systems, ensuring you are ready to advise, manage and lead agriculturally based enterprises towards success.

High achievers within the Bachelor of Rural Science have the option of undertaking Honours study within their fourth year, where you will complete a research project and dissertation on a topic that interests you. Graduates who achieve the appropriate level of Honours are eligible to apply for a research master's degree or Doctor of Philosophy (PhD).

Studying an agricultural-based course at UNE offers you the opportunity to:

• Gain formal practical experience in agricultural enterprises and apply coursework theory to workplace situations during your studies to improve your employability as a a graduate.
• Specialise your studies by selecting one of eight minors in areas such as climate resilience, sustainability, genetics, cotton, wool, plant production, animal production or business.
• Access the latest agricultural techniques and technology at our innovative SMART Farms. With eight properties covering 3,655 hectares, including a farm on campus and a commercial scale feedlot, the UNE SMART Farms are diverse and valuable teaching and research resources you will utilise during your course. The farms support a range of disciplines including grazing and intensive livestock, cropping, pastures, poultry, genetics and precision agriculture. 
• Further develop your knowledge through field trips to our commercial partners.

• Learn hands-on through our world class facilities including our state-of-the-art glasshouses, and animal house and handling facilities to learn skills and techniques that you will use throughout your working life.

Career outcomes

As a Bachelor of Rural Science graduate, the door is open to careers in:

• broadacre agronomy
• animal production
• animal nutrition and health
• soil science
• horticulture
• breeding and genetics
• agricultural research
• agricultural policy
• agricultural consultancy
• agricultural technologies
• agribusiness
• farm management.