Discover the science of sustainable and profitable food and fibre production with this graduate diploma from Australia’s number 2 university for agricultural science¹. You’ll gain the skills and knowledge needed to work in Australia’s $61 billion agricultural sector or forge an international career.

CONTRIBUTE TO A HEALTHY AND WELL-FED WORLD

In the Graduate Diploma in Agricultural Sciences, you will develop your knowledge of the fundamental and applied science of agriculture to contribute to a healthier world.

The core subjects cover a range of plant and animal disciplines as well as current and emerging environmental agricultural and associated industry impacts.

You’ll explore the interdisciplinary nature of agricultural crop, food and fibre production and markets at an advanced level.

SPECIALISE AND FOCUS YOUR CAREER

Tailor your graduate diploma to your interests and career plans by selecting one of five specialisations and a variety from the more than 30 elective subjects.

Specialisations include:

• Agribusiness
• Agricultural Extension and Innovation
• Animal Science
• Crop Production
• Food Sustainability.

INTEGRATED PROFESSIONAL PRACTICE

Industry-relevant and research-led knowledge are integral to the Graduate Diploma in Agricultural Sciences. You will learn from the University of Melbourne’s world-renowned academic staff, as well as attending guest lectures from leaders at the top of the Australian agricultural sector.

¹Times Higher Education Rankings by Subject 2022

The Graduate Diploma in Agricultural Sciences combines a strong core of knowledge in agricultural science with specialised expertise. You will be introduced to many of the issues underpinning the advances in food and fibre production within the Australian and International Agriculture sectors. You will develop effective written, verbal and visual communication skills, leadership skills, as well as an understanding of scientific research and literature.

LEARN FROM A DIVERSE RANGE OF SUBJECTS

Study a diverse range of subjects in areas including:

• Animal breeding, welfare and production
• Agribusiness
• Crop production
• Pest and disease management
• Agricultural extension
• Agricultural land and water management
• Conservation.

Explore the course structure and full range of subjects.

The Skills you need for career success

The course curriculum has been developed in line with industry requirements, providing you with the skills and knowledge you need to address the environmental, political and scientific challenges of international food security.

You’ll gain a sound foundation in the scientific principles and analytical skills vital for plant and animal-derived food and fibre production in Australia and globally.

You will also develop the soft skills that employers demand, and that will become even more vital in the future. Your subjects have an emphasis on teamwork, and will help you develop organisational skills, creativity and problem-solving ability.

Agricultural science transcends global boundaries, with 90 per cent of graduates finding employment after course completion². Whether you are advancing your current qualification or already working in the field, the Graduate Diploma in Agricultural Sciences will give you the knowledge and skills to improve your career progression and earning potential.

On graduation, you could find employment in a wide range of sectors including:

• Agricultural production
• Environmental organisations
• Economics
• Bioresearch
• Service industries
• Community organisations.

Further study

This course is a pathway to the Master of Agricultural Sciences. Successful completion of the Graduate Diploma in Agricultural Sciences with an average mark of at least 65 per cent can provide entry to the masters degree with 100 points of credit (equivalent to 1 year of full-time study).

²Quality Indicators for Learning and Teaching, 2020 Graduate Outcomes Survey

In order to be considered for entry, applicants must have completed either: an undergraduate degree in any discipline, or equivalent; or a minimum of six years documented relevant professiona

IELTS (academic English Only): 6.5 (no band less than 6.0)
TOEFL Internet-based test: 79 + ; Writing 21; Speaking 18; Reading 13; Listening 13;
Pearson Test of English Academic: 58 + no communicative skill below 50
Cambridge English: Advanced/ Certificate of Advanced English (CAE): 176 + no skill below 169.