Agriculture is an essential part of society, and as extreme weather conditions like drought and floods become more frequent, we need scientists to help overcome these challenges and contribute to the health of the planet and its people.
Studying a Bachelor of Agricultural Science at the University of Sydney combines practical, hands-on learning with classroom learning. You’ll explore topics like food systems, soil science, and digital agriculture, while working with modern facilities and technologies.
This article highlights key aspects of the degree and what you can expect from studying agricultural science at Sydney.
As new technology is introduced, agricultural practices need to adapt and align with the needs of a growing population. Our Bachelor of Agricultural Science degree integrates digital agriculture and sustainability, equipping you to improve food and fibre production while driving social, economic, and environmental benefits.
If you’re passionate about sustainability, our focus on regenerative farming practices teaches you how to work with the land and climate to make farming more environmentally friendly and efficient. For example, in our Genetics and Genomics major, you could learn how to modify crops to make them more resilient to drought and disease, ensuring food security for the future and preparing you for diverse jobs in agriculture in Australia.
In our agriculture science degree, you’ll gain practical, hands-on experience with plants and animals, building skills in animal management, production, nutrition, and plant breeding.
We offer valuable industry experience through placements and internships, connecting you with sectors like pharmaceuticals, feed and nutrition companies, ag-tech firms, and not-for-profits. We also offer farm placement units that provide experience in various sectors, such as dairy, beef and horticulture.
You will also experience hands-on food science and soil science classes, where you can engage in field-based learning opportunities. You'll delve into the principles of food science, processing, and development, and analyse real-world problems that will ensure you’ll graduate ready for a variety of jobs in agriculture in Australia and beyond.
Studying agricultural science at the University of Sydney gives you the best of both worlds. Studying on a vibrant city campus and direct access to university-run farms for teaching, research and commercial activity.
You'll gain hands-on experience at Camden, just outside Sydney, working with livestock, crops, and soil systems, and at Narrabri, a regional facility supporting large-scale crop and grazing research. These farms are central to practical learning, allowing you to apply classroom knowledge in real-world settings.
I had the opportunity to conduct plant research at the University’s Narrabri campus and loved the town, working with colleagues and the facilities.
PhD Student and Research Assistant at the University of Sydney, Narrabri
The University of Sydney is home to some of the world’s leading experts in agricultural sciences, combining decades of research, teaching, and industry experience
Our teaching staff are not just academics; they are industry leaders who are actively working on solutions to the most pressing challenges facing our planet, from sustainable food production to environmental management and innovative farming solutions.
Students also benefit from access to leading research groups, including the Sydney Institute of Agriculture, which has been contributing to agricultural knowledge for over a century. These connections provide opportunities to engage with research projects, emerging technologies and collaborative initiatives that shape modern agricultural systems.
Graduates of agricultural science are in strong demand across Australia and internationally, reflecting the growing need for experts in food production, sustainability and innovation.
Career opportunities in agricultural science include roles such as
I currently work as a Reinsurance Admin Officer, which was both a horizontal and vertical transition from previously being a Crop Claims officer. My current role gives me a very high-level view of the insurance industry and what is most vulnerable to emerging risks like climate change.
Master of Agriculture and Environment graduate
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