Program Overview
The Undergraduate Certificate in Agribusiness combines agriculture and business studies, providing students with a foundation in agribusiness management, value chain management, and pest, weed, and disease control. Through practical case studies and simulations, students develop essential skills for careers in primary product businesses and non-production roles within the agriculture industry. The program also offers advancement opportunities for further study or managerial positions.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
Description:
The Undergraduate Certificate in Agribusiness offers students the opportunity to delve into Australia's agricultural industry and gain foundational business skills. This course is the perfect blend of agriculture and business studies, equipping graduates with essential abilities to thrive in the evolving agribusiness landscape.
Objectives:
- Understand the principles of agribusiness management planning, value chain management, and managing pests, weeds, and diseases in primary production.
- Acquire practical skills through real-world case studies and simulated work environments.
- Enhance career opportunities within the agriculture industry or pursue further study.
Outline:
Course Content:
The program comprises four 12.5 credit point units, including three core units and one elective unit:
Core Units:
- Agribusiness Fundamentals: Introduces the importance of agribusiness management plans, discusses links with business strategy, and demonstrates how managers integrate planning outputs into business operations.
- Value Chain Management in Agribusiness: Explores the concept of value chains, emphasizing their role in enhancing business performance in primary production.
- Principles of Weed, Pest, and Disease Management: Equips students with knowledge on the risks and challenges posed by pests, weeds, and diseases, as well as various on-farm control methods.
Elective Unit:
Students can select one elective unit from the following options:
- Managing People: Focuses on human resource management strategies, including attracting, motivating, managing, and retaining employees.
- Financial Decision Making: Provides a practical understanding of operational budgeting, financial decision making, and other financial concepts used to assess organizational performance.
- E-agribusiness, Technology and Innovation: Explores e-enabled agribusiness, covering areas such as precision agriculture, livestock tracking, and food traceability.
Assessment:
Assessment methods vary across units and may include:
- Assignments
- Case studies
- Presentations
- Portfolios
- Exams
Teaching:
Teaching Methods:
- Lectures
- Tutorials
- Practical sessions
- Online learning resources
Faculty:
- Industry experts, including Mike Badcock (Enchanted Isle Farms) and Terry Brient (Tasmanian Agriculture Productivity Group), contribute to the program's development and teaching.
Unique Approaches:
- Practice-based, experiential learning forms a crucial component, allowing students to develop practical skills.
- Students gain insights through real-world case studies and simulations.
Careers:
Career Paths:
- Primary product businesses (horticulture, aquaculture, pharmaceuticals, wineries)
- Non-production roles (consultancy, business advisory, transport, retail, distribution)
Advancement Opportunities:
- Upskill and progress to managerial or leadership roles in the agriculture industry.
- Transition into further study, with full credit towards an Associate Degree in Agribusiness.
