Associate Degree in Agriculture

No intake into this course from 2008.

This two-year full-time course is available at Dookie campus, and also part time by distance education. Students intending to study by distance mode should note that some subjects have a compulsory residential workshop.

On-campus students are expected to spend a time at least equivalent to the formal contact time, in study, tutorial preparation, revision and completion of assignments. Off-campus students should be prepared to devote approximately ten hours a week to each subject.

Students who have completed this course should have acquired:

• a wide range of practical farming skills;

• an understanding of the biological and ecological aspects of farming systems that lead to sustainable agriculture;

• an understanding of the main issues facing the world of agriculture, as well as their responsibilities and roles as farmers and agribusiness operators within the wider community and national economy;

• the financial skills that will enable them to run a medium-sized business related to agriculture or its service industries;

• the ability to recognise alternatives and opportunities, and have a capacity for imaginative thinking, sound judgement, problem solving and decision making;

• the ability to act ethically in their approach to the performance of duties relevant to industry standards;

• the ability to perform a leadership role within their industry and community; and

• the ability to communicate effectively with employees, employers, clients and professional services in their industries.

First Year

Second Year

Students enrolling in the Faculty of Land and Food Resources are advised that some courses of study may put them at an increased risk of contracting Q Fever. Q Fever is a relatively common, preventable condition which while rarely fatal, can cause a severe acute illness and can result in damage to heart valves and chronic fatigue. It is recommended that students consider undertaking screening and vaccination for Q Fever prior to commencement of study. Students may be required to provide proof of vaccination prior to undertaking some coursework. Your course coordinator will advise you of this requirement prior to commencement of the study semester. Vaccine costs for students are not covered by the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS), Medicare, or by the University. Some students with full private health coverage (which has hospital and ancillary cover) may receive partial re-imbursement for vaccine costs.

It is University policy to take all reasonable steps to minimise the impact of disability upon academic study, and reasonable adjustments will be made to enhance a student's participation in the University's programs. This course requires all students to enrol in subjects where they must actively and safely contribute to field excursions and laboratory activities. Students who feel their disability will impact on meeting this requirement are encouraged to discuss this matter with the Subject Coordinator and Disability Liaison Unit (8344 7068 or DLU-enquiries@unimelb.edu.au).

The Melbourne Experience enables our Graduates to become:

Academically excellent

• reach a high level of achievement in writing, generic research activities, problem-solving and communication
• be critical and creative thinkers, with an aptitude for continued self-directed learning

• examine critically, synthesise and evaluate knowledge across a broad range of disciplines
• expand their analytical and cognitive skills through learning experiences in diverse subjects
• have the capacity to participate fully in collaborative learning and to confront unfamiliar problems

• initiate and implement constructive change in their communities, including professions and workplaces
• have excellent interpersonal and decision-making skills, including an awareness of personal strengths and limitations

• be well-informed citizens able to contribute to their communities wherever they choose to live and work
• have an understanding of the social and cultural diversity in our community

• be advocates for improving the sustainability of the environment

This course encompasses particular generic skills. On completion of the course students should have:

• Ability to participate effectively as a member of a team
• Ability to plan work, use time effectively and manage small projects
• Highly developed written communication skills to allow informed dialogue with individuals and groups from industry, government and the community
• Highly developed oral communication skills to allow informed dialogue and liaison with individuals and groups from industry, government and the community
• an ability to utilise appropriate technology in the analysis of rural and regional business