Crop and Pasture Science

Program Overview

Murdoch University's Crop and Pasture Science major focuses on the science behind food production, addressing food security and sustainability challenges. Through hands-on experience, research, and industry partnerships, students gain a deep understanding of plant growth, agricultural technologies, and market dynamics to prepare for careers in the agricultural sector.

Program Outline

Crop and Pasture Science Major at Murdoch University

Degree Overview:

To meet the growing global food demand, this major focuses on the science and technology behind food production. It explores how research and industry practices address food security concerns and feed a growing population. Students learn about the factors influencing plant growth in cropping and pasture systems, and how to manipulate growth through various interventions. The program emphasizes the role of new technologies in improving yield, profitability, and sustainability of food production systems.

Objectives:

• Gain a comprehensive understanding of the factors affecting plant growth in cropping and pasture systems.
• Learn how to manipulate plant growth through various interventions.
• Develop knowledge of new technologies and their impact on food production systems.
• Understand the operation of agricultural businesses within the context of government policies, markets, and the value chain.

Outline:

Total Credit Points:

24

Required Units (21 credit points):

• ANS101 Introduction to Livestock Science and Genetics (3 credit points): This unit provides an introduction to the principles of livestock science and genetics, covering topics such as animal breeding, genetics, and animal production systems.
• ENV243 Water and Earth Science (3 credit points): This unit explores the fundamental principles of water and earth science, including topics such as water resources, soil science, and environmental management.
• ANS207 Crop and Pasture Science (3 credit points): This unit focuses on the principles of crop and pasture science, covering topics such as plant growth, development, and management.
• ANS208 Crop Protection and Plant Biosecurity (3 credit points): This unit explores the principles of crop protection and plant biosecurity, including topics such as pest management, disease control, and quarantine.
• ANS309 Agricultural Markets, Economics and Policy (3 credit points): This unit examines the economic and policy aspects of agriculture, including topics such as market analysis, pricing, and government regulations.
• ANS311 Agricultural and Environmental Technologies (3 credit points): This unit explores the application of technology in agriculture and environmental management, including topics such as precision agriculture, remote sensing, and GIS.
• ANS312 Advanced Crop and Pasture Science (3 credit points): This unit delves deeper into advanced topics in crop and pasture science, including topics such as plant breeding, biotechnology, and sustainable agriculture.

Specified Elective Units (3 credit points):

• ANS306 Agriculture and Biosecurity Case Studies (3 credit points): This unit examines real-world case studies in agriculture and biosecurity, providing students with practical insights into industry challenges and solutions.
• ANS307 Agriculture and Biosecurity Laboratory Skills and Practice (3 credit points): This unit provides hands-on experience in laboratory techniques and practices relevant to agriculture and biosecurity.
• ANS202 Crop and Pasture Industry Career Skills (3 credit points): This unit focuses on developing essential career skills for students interested in pursuing careers in the crop and pasture industry.
• ORENV303 GIS for Environmental Management and Planning (3 credit points): This unit explores the application of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) in environmental management and planning.
• ORBIO257 Australian Biodiversity (3 credit points): This unit explores the diversity of life in Australia, including topics such as plant and animal classification, conservation, and ecological interactions.
• ORMAS223 Applied Statistics (3 credit points): This unit introduces students to the principles of statistical analysis and its application in agricultural research.
• ORBIO246 Microbiology (3 credit points): This unit explores the world of microorganisms, including topics such as bacterial growth, microbial diversity, and their role in agriculture.

Teaching:

• Hands-on Experience: The program emphasizes practical learning through industry placements and on-campus farm experiences.
• Industry Experts: Students learn from scientists, professionals, and industry-leading farmers, gaining real-world insights.
• Australia's Only Campus-Based Farm: Murdoch University's unique campus-based farm provides students with hands-on experience in soil science, crop science, and pasture science.

Careers:

• Agricultural Scientist: Conduct research and develop solutions for improving agricultural practices.
• Agronomist: Provide expert advice to farmers on crop and pasture management.
• Biosecurity and Quarantine Officer: Ensure the safety and security of agricultural products from pests and diseases.
• Farm Manager: Oversee the day-to-day operations of a farm, including crop and livestock production.
• Research Scientist: Conduct research in agricultural science, contributing to the development of new technologies and practices.

Other:

• Number One University in WA for Agricultural and Environmental Studies: Murdoch University is recognized as the top university in Western Australia for learning resources, student support, and teaching quality in agricultural and environmental studies.
• Eight Weeks of Industry Placements: Students gain valuable experience through eight weeks of industry placements in farms and agricultural research programs across Western Australia.