Master of Science (Agriculture and Food Security)

Overview Overview

With the world's population expected to hit 9.7 billion by 2050, reliable access to affordable and nutritious food is paramount. Moreover, the agricultural practices used to grow and harvest this food is key to food security.

In this master, you will study the farming systems that are responsible for ensuring a secure food supply both in Australia and globally. You will examine farming systems used around the world, and the science and technology for crop, pasture, livestock and food production, including the role of genetics and management of achieving sustainable production within environmental constraints.

You will also learn how emerging technologies are used for the management of crops and livestock and the role these technologies play in driving sustainability outcomes and strengthening Australia's agriculture and food industries.

In your first year you will choose to major in either Agricultural Systems or Food Security, and in your second year you will undertake a research project relating to your major.

How this course will make you industry ready

With this master qualification you can apply the latest sustainable practices to farming and agriculture work to strengthen natural capital, production output and profitability.

You'll understand how to use technology to improve crop yield, streamline food supply chains or enhance food product design to improve food security.

You'll also be ready to engage with government or NGOs to give input on policies that help drive innovation in farming and agriculture to improve both food accessibility and environmental conservation.

What you'll learn

• have demonstrated knowledge and understanding of agriculture and food security that extends beyond that is typically associated with the bachelor-level, and that provides a basis or opportunity for originality in developing and/or applying ideas, often within a research context
• can apply their knowledge, understanding, and problem-solving abilities in new or unfamiliar environments within broader (or multidisciplinary) contexts related to agriculture and food security
• can clearly and unambiguously communicate their conclusions, along with the knowledge and rationale underpinning these, to specialist and non-specialist audiences
• can integrate knowledge, handle complexity, and formulate judgements including reflection related to relevant social and ethical responsibilities
• comprehend and respect that agriculture and food security is an international discipline with varying perspectives as demonstrated in the diversity of opinion identified while undertaking this course
• have developed the learning skills to allow them to continue to study and practice in a manner that may be largely self-directed or autonomous