Graduate Diploma in Rural Science

* Preferably with a background in the basic sciences of biology, chemistry or statistics.

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Become a Highly Skilled Agricultural Scientist

Agricultural scientists study plants, animals and cultivation techniques to improve productivity on farms and in agricultural firms. They explore ways to improve crop yield, protect animal welfare and the environment, control pests and weeds more effectively, and conserve soil and water.

The current challenges of food supply and climate change have resulted in an increasing demand for highly trained agricultural scientists both within Australia and worldwide.

This course develops your expertise in all aspects of agricultural science, including agronomy, animal science, soil science and land management. You'll have the opportunity to major in either plant science or animal science.

Upon graduation, you'll be qualified for advisory roles in agricultural extension and property management, working with State Departments of Primary Industry. You'll also have the necessary knowledge and skills to become a private consultant providing advice on scientific, technical and economic matters.

Course Structure

Total units: 8 Core units: 4 Major units: 4

Course Units

Core Units

Major Units

Complete four units in either one of these streams:

Plant Science

Animal Science

Please note that each unit includes a four-day on-campus component. Contact a SEEK Learning consultant now for more details.

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Exit Qualification

You can choose to exit this course with a Graduate Certificate in Rural Science by completing any four units above. Contact a SEEK Learning consultant for more details.

Set Your Own Study Schedule

There are four study periods each year - so you can enrol anytime and start in the study period of your choice. You're in control of your study schedule - study from home or wherever it's convenient, and in your own time. You can fast track your learning by studying during all four study periods, or take breaks in between. Contact a SEEK Learning consultant for more information.

Did You Know? Survey results show that a Bachelor Degree increases earnings by about 30%. Australian Council for Educational Research - Nov 08

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Study Now, Pay as You Earn

Almost every Australian citizen is eligible for Government assistance through the FEE-HELP program. This means you do not have to pay anything upfront, but can pay for your course as you earn.

Contact a SEEK Learning consultant to find out more about how you can study now and pay as you earn with FEE-HELP.

Refresh Your Study Skills with Quick Skills Modules

New to university study or returning to study after a long break? You may want to consider taking Quick Skills Modules, short online courses that are designed to help you get the most out of your studies. There are six modules available:

• An Introduction to Project Managing Your Studies
• Setting Study Goals and Objectives
• Managing Risks and Optimising Potential
• Getting to Know Your Study Materials
• Scheduling Tasks and Time
• Preparing for and Sitting Exams

Each module can be completed within three hours. Contact a SEEK Learning consultant now for more information about these optional modules.

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Enjoy Comprehensive Support

Get all the support you need as you study towards your qualification. You have access to:

• Student advisors
• Online forums
• Study groups
• Online library resources
• Online guidance on study skills and writing
• A dedicated student association

You may be eligible for financial assistance through FEE-HELP. Contact a SEEK Learning consultant now to discuss your eligibility.

About University of New England (UNE) & Open Universities Australia (OUA)

This course is delivered by UNE, in partnership with OUA.

About UNE

Established in the 1930s, UNE is internationally recognised as a great teaching, training and research university. The university was a pioneer in distance education, offering its first distance qualification as early as 1955.

More than 75,000 people hold UNE qualifications, with many in senior positions in Australia and overseas.

Learn more about UNE.

About OUA

OUA offers a wide range of distance-based courses and units from Australia's leading universities. All OUA qualifications are identical to those gained on-campus - and all are FEE-HELP approved.

With OUA, you can enrol anytime, mix and match units, and study at your own pace, while enjoying comprehensive support services.

Learn more about OUA.

Enquire now to find out about course prices, FEE-HELP and more.