MJRP-DRAGM v.2 Dryland Agricultural Systems Major (MSc Science)

This major/stream is part of a larger course. Information is specific to the major/stream, please refer to the course for more information.

This masters program will allow candidates to acquire knowledge and skills for dryland (rainfed) agricultural systems. Candidates will study farming systems in southern Australia, focusing on south-western Australia; these systems have relevance to Mediterranean environments around the world, and to areas where agricultural production is determined by rainfall during the cooler part of the year. The program will cover science and technology for crop, pasture and livestock production (including the roles of genetics and management in achieving optimum production against environmental constraints), and their integration into viable farming systems. Special emphasis is placed on emerging technologies for precise management of crops and livestock, and the role of these technologies in ensuring sustainable and environmentally sound production systems into the future. A research project in an area relevant to dryland systems is an important component of the program.

Major/Stream Learning Outcomes

A graduate of this course can:

1. acquire professional skills in management of soil, crop, pasture and livestock, allowing the application of this knowledge to a wide variety of rainfed farming situations

2. use logical scientific methods to analyse problems and apply this knowledge to a wide variety of rainfed farming situations especially in a Mediterranean context

3. students will be fluent in current literature, theories and practices of production technology and their integration into farming systems

4. use a broad range of communication skills appropriate to the audience

5. select and use new and established technologies appropriate to dryland farming systems

6. acquire and contribute to new agricultural and scientific knowledge and expertise relating to a broad variety of professional situations and recognise the importance of continuous training and education

7. understand the global and cultural issues in agriculture and how these impact on the practice and management of farming systems

8. appreciate the importance of cultural and individual human rights and how these impact on the study of agriculture; embrace the diversity and opportunities presented by different cultures; value environmental, indigenous and other community perspectives

9. work both as an independent scientist and within teams, either as a professional leader or a collaborator, using effective problem solving and decision making skills in an ethical manner

Duration and Availability

This major is available to international students studying in Australia on a study visa

YEAR 1 SEMESTER 1

YEAR 1 SEMESTER 2

YEAR 2 SEMESTER 1

YEAR 2 SEMESTER 2

OPTIONS TO SELECT FROM IN YEAR 2 SEMESTER 1

OPTIONS TO SELECT FROM IN YEAR 2 SEMESTER 2