Introduction
- Do you have a flair for growing things, but can’t explain it?
- Are you interested in how agriculture can tackle issues raised from an expanding population (e.g. food security and safety; loss of natural and farming resources; urbanisation)?
- Want to use the science of agriculture to inform on health, diet and nutrition?
Our Certificate in Agricultural Science is the ideal starting point for you. With a degree pathway, develop your knowledge in stages, and build confidence in your ability to practice agricultural science.
Key Info
Duration: 6 months*
Start: Anytime
Prerequisites:
- High school certificate; or
2. A relevant industry apprenticeship qualification; or
3. Over 21 with proven and relevant experience.
Program Structure
The Certificate in Agricultural Science is a great starting point for developing a career in agriculture. The course is flexible, at-your-own-pace, and consists of five compulsory modules and one elective module (a total of 60 ECTS must be completed):
Compulsory Modules (10 ECTS credits each)
Hover over a module title to find out more
BSC103 Biochemistry I (Animals)
In this module, you’ll learn the fundamentals of chemistry including atomic structure, the periodic table, molecules, nomenclature, and organic chemistry as relating to animals.
BAG306 Agronomy I
Learn how to grow field crops like grain for use as human food, animal feed, fibre, oilseed and some industrial product. This module on agronomy covers factors related to crop production such as crop physiology, plant breeding, pest control and soil science.
BSC110 Cell Biology
Understanding the basics of cellular structure and division is essential for human health studies, animal care, and animal studies.
BSC104 Botany I
The study of botany is relevant not just to botanists but also to horticulturists and anyone working with plants from breeding through to nursery growers or agriculturists. This module contains the basis of plant science, and is an introduction to plant physiology and taxonomy, covering general botany including morphology and anatomy.
Research Project I
This module encourages you to construct a problem statement, identify relevant literature, then develop a hypothesis. You will also be required to look at data sources and complete a research proposal. The module will help you to understand how to structure a thesis, complete an ethics form and draft a thesis to post graduate level.
Elective Modules (10 ECTS credits each)
Select one module from the list below:
BAG305 Organic Farming
Demand for organic produce has boomed over recent years and supermarkets now devote significant shelf space to organic produce, and organic certification schemes have emerged and flourished. Is this just a trend or is something more serious? This module teaches students to farm animals or crops using organic, biodynamic, eco-farming techniques.
BAG203 Animal Behaviour
Learn about animal psychology: conditioning, innate behaviour and survival. A foundation for working with pets, livestock or wildlife -or managing your own animals.
How will I learn
The program is conducted entirely online. You can begin ANYTIME. Upon enrolment, you will receive an email with an access code for our online learning system within 48 hours. You may be required to do an orientation course in academic writing (non-examinable) beforehand.
Modules are split into readings, set task activities, and assignments. At the end of each module, you will be required to sit for an examination and/or submit a project.
Learning Support
You will get unlimited email support throughout the program, on every module/course. Feedback is provided for every assignment that is sent in. In some instances, telephone support can also be arranged.
Progression
When you achieve this qualification, you can begin on your Diploma. It is part of a pathway to get a Bachelor of Science in Agriculture.
Fees:
Fees refer to tuition only. It does not include ancillary expenses such as required materials (see above), textbooks, internet connections, postage, telephone calls, insurance and printing.
Duration:
Time varies depending upon exemptions, performance and the workload. Accreditation for Prior Learning or Experience (APEL) can reduce time and fees. Part of a degree pathway.