Overview 2024
Location
- What is an ATAR
- Course rules
- CRICOS: 106832A
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For years prior to 2015, please view the Course and Unit Handbook Archive
View the current year's course page
The specialised skills and knowledge developed through this course will enable graduates to critically evaluate data and promote sustainable, ethical and safe practices in the industries they choose to work in. Graduates will have the foundation to contribute towards the University’s strategic direction of improving processes and sustainability outcomes in Tasmania’s blue and green economies.
Learning Outcomes
Practical experience
This course incorporates many practical learning experiences in the laboratory, and in agricultural enterprises.
Our strong relationships with grazing, seed growing and horticultural enterprises create the perfect field trips during your studies. You could be monitoring water use on farms, learning about irrigation systems, technology, or how to operate a dairy farm.
Course structure
The Master of Agriculture and Food Sciences is a two-year course which students can enter with a cognate or non-cognate degree.
The course comprises of:
- Four core units worth a total of 50 credit points, to be completed as part of the transition semester
- A specialisation comprising of six units, worth 75 credit points. Students can choose one of three specialisations:
- Sustainable Agricultural Systems
- Crop Science and Plant Health
- Food Microbiology
- A research pathway or professional pathway worth 75 credit points. Threshold criteria apply for entry into the research pathway.
Year 1 Core Units (50 credit points)
Food production, access, use and resilience of supply in globally diverse contexts will be discussed and investigated. Cases studies will be explored from Africa, Asia, Europe, America and Australia to illustrate the complexity and diversity in the production of and…
Credit Points: 12.5
| Location | Study period | Attendance options | Available to | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hobart | Semester 1 | ||||
This unit is about modern statistics, data-science and critical thinking within the context of agri-food research. Students learn the following things. Firstly, to combine statistical analysis, probability reasoning and substantive scientific hypotheses. Secondly, to use a computer to properly analyse…
Credit Points: 12.5
| Location | Study period | Attendance options | Available to | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hobart | Semester 1 | ||||
This unit equips students with the skills they need to conduct a detailed analysis of an industry and use this analysis to identify and communicate potential market or technical innovations with a variety of target audiences. These target audiences might…
Credit Points: 12.5
| Location | Study period | Attendance options | Available to | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hobart | Semester 2 | ||||
This unit is an assignment-based unit in which you will explore a particular aspect of agriculture, food science or microbiology in detail through the production of a review of the scientific literature in that area. The topic is chosen through…
Credit Points: 12.5
| Location | Study period | Attendance options | Available to | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hobart | Semester 1 | ||||
| Hobart | Semester 2 | ||||
View all details for KLA483 Academic Skills for Agri-food Research
Choice of Specialisation (75 credit points)
Crop Science and Plant Health
This specialisation includes six units (worth 75 credit points) that are focussed on improving crop production outcomes and support decision making for plant health and biosecurity.
Crop Science and Plant Health
The unit explores theoretical and practical technologies and innovations applicable to agricultural production systems. These technologies and innovations address current productivity and sustainability challenges and include topics such as technologies and innovations for precision farming and irrigation management. Students will…
Credit Points: 12.5
| Location | Study period | Attendance options | Available to | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hobart | Semester 1 | ||||
View all details for KLA533 Agricultural Technology and Innovation
This unit links your knowledge in agronomy, horticulture and business to the area of agricultural land resource assessment. We will develop your understanding and land management skills via practical experiences with SE Tasmanian soil and land resources. This unit will…
Credit Points: 12.5
| Location | Study period | Attendance options | Available to | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hobart | Semester 1 | ||||
Examines the status of agronomy, including developments in breeding, physiology and management. Farming systems research is also examined through a study of topics such as seasonal forecasting and climate change, crop sequence, crop simulation modelling and precision farming. Practical work…
Credit Points: 12.5
| Location | Study period | Attendance options | Available to | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hobart | Semester 2 | ||||
In this unit we study the principles behind the management of agricultural pest insects, weeds and diseases. The unit includes modules on (1) Biosecurity, (2) Weeds (3) Pest & disease monitoring and decision making; (4) Chemicals in crop protection; (5)…
Credit Points: 12.5
| Location | Study period | Attendance options | Available to | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hobart | Semester 2 | ||||
The objective of the unit is to provide students with a detailed understanding of key physiological processes underlying horticultural crop production and pre- and post-harvest management practices that are designed to provide products desired by the market. The focus of…
Credit Points: 12.5
This unit is currently unavailable.
Welcome to Insect Ecology & Behaviour. This unit is research focused in its content and assessment. We will explore three key research areas in depth: these are insect Page 6 KLA314 Insect Ecology & Behaviour mating systems, insect natural enemies…
Credit Points: 12.5
This unit is currently unavailable.
The focus of this unit is on advanced topics of plant disease biology and management. Concepts will be illustrated with diseases caused by viral and virus-like agents, phytopathogenic bacteria and fungi in agricultural and horticultural systems. Topics include infection biology,…
Credit Points: 12.5
| Location | Study period | Attendance options | Available to | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hobart | Semester 1 | ||||
This course provides students with advance knowledge of mechanisms of plant function, from the molecular to the whole plant level. The broad range of fundamental processes such as photosynthesis, respiration, plant water relations, stomata physiology, mineral nutrition, plant hormone functions,…
Credit Points: 12.5
| Location | Study period | Attendance options | Available to | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hobart | Semester 2 | ||||
Food Microbiology
This specialisation includes six units (worth 75 credit points) that are focused on the use of microorganisms in food production and the control of spoilage and pathogenic microorganisms.
Note: Semester 1 intake, only.
Food Microbiology
Traditional approaches to food safety assurance are failing to keep up with the modern food industry. In response, and to harmonise international trade in food, food safety management is moving to a "risk-based approach that relies strongly on synthesis of…
Credit Points: 12.5
| Location | Study period | Attendance options | Available to | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Online | Semester 2 | ||||
Maintenance of food security and public health requires vigilance in the food supply chain based on knowledge of the physiology, ecology and epidemiology of food-borne pathogens including bacteria, viruses and parasites. This unit focuses on enhancing depth of knowledge of…
Credit Points: 12.5
| Location | Study period | Attendance options | Available to | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hobart | Semester 1 | ||||
| Online | Semester 1 | ||||
Provides Master of Agriculture and Food Science students with knowledge of the role of microorganisms in the production, deterioration and safety of foods, from both ecological and physiological perspectives, including the effect of temperature, pH, water activity and other factors…
Credit Points: 12.5
| Location | Study period | Attendance options | Available to | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hobart | Semester 1 | ||||
Microorganisms, though invisibly small, collectively make up the majority of the living matter on Earth and have profound influences on many aspects of our lives. This unit will draw on contemporary, real-world examples to explore the influence and impact of…
Credit Points: 12.5
| Location | Study period | Attendance options | Available to | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hobart | Semester 2 | ||||
Tasmania has a growing reputation as a gourmet paradise, with high quality primary products and a growing fermented food and drink industry. In this unit, students will learn about the full production life cycle for fermented food and drink, from…
Credit Points: 12.5
| Location | Study period | Attendance options | Available to | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Online | Semester 2 | ||||
Microbiology is the study of microorganisms- how they work and their role in our world. Microorganisms encompass huge diversity and include bacteria, viruses, fungi and single-celled animals and algae. Although not visible to the naked eye, microorganisms have a profound…
Credit Points: 12.5
| Location | Study period | Attendance options | Available to | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hobart | Semester 1 | ||||
Sustainable Agricultural Systems
This specialisation includes six units (worth 75 credit points) that are focussed on sustainable practices in livestock farming and landscapes.
Sustainable Agricultural Systems
The unit explores theoretical and practical technologies and innovations applicable to agricultural production systems. These technologies and innovations address current productivity and sustainability challenges and include topics such as technologies and innovations for precision farming and irrigation management. Students will…
Credit Points: 12.5
| Location | Study period | Attendance options | Available to | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hobart | Semester 1 | ||||
View all details for KLA533 Agricultural Technology and Innovation
This unit links your knowledge in agronomy, horticulture and business to the area of agricultural land resource assessment. We will develop your understanding and land management skills via practical experiences with SE Tasmanian soil and land resources. This unit will…
Credit Points: 12.5
| Location | Study period | Attendance options | Available to | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hobart | Semester 1 | ||||
In this interdisciplinary unit, students will be introduced to systems thinking and practice in a farming context. Systems approaches will be used to explore how broader social, cultural, political, economic and ecological factors influence farming. Using local and international case…
Credit Points: 12.5
| Location | Study period | Attendance options | Available to | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hobart | 5 Week Session Jun | ||||
| Online | 5 Week Session Jun | ||||
In this unit we study the principles behind the management of agricultural pest insects, weeds and diseases. The unit includes modules on (1) Biosecurity, (2) Weeds (3) Pest & disease monitoring and decision making; (4) Chemicals in crop protection; (5)…
Credit Points: 12.5
| Location | Study period | Attendance options | Available to | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hobart | Semester 2 | ||||
This unit aims to develop your understanding of key physical and chemical properties and processes of soils and how these attributes relate to and inform land use and management. This unit will develop your ability to critically analyse soil data…
Credit Points: 12.5
| Location | Study period | Attendance options | Available to | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hobart | Semester 2 | ||||
This unit explores how animal science production can be expanded to meet future needs while maintaining social licence to operate and minimising climate impacts. Students will gain knowledge of the science underpinning aspects of modern animal production and develop an…
Credit Points: 12.5
This unit is currently unavailable.
The unit introduces the science behind pasture production and management and the link between pasture or other feedstuffs on animal digestion, feed and nutrient utilisation and productive performance. In the practical classes, students are given the opportunity to perform pasture…
Credit Points: 12.5
| Location | Study period | Attendance options | Available to | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hobart | Semester 2 | ||||
Choice of Research or Professional Pathway (75 credit points)
Master of Agriculture and Food Sciences - Professional Pathway
Professional Pathway
This is the “Human Resources” unit of the GradDip course and covers Leadership theory and HR practice. The unit will contrast the difference between leadership and management, what is required to lead others and lead an agricultural team, team leadership…
Credit Points: 12.5
| Location | Study period | Attendance options | Available to | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Online | Half Year Period 1 | ||||
| Online | Half Year Period 2 | ||||
In this unit, students will explore aspects of innovation and entrepreneurship that can grow your business through the creation of new opportunities. Students will investigate disruptive and incremental innovations that may contribute to the development of increased efficiencies in production…
Credit Points: 12.5
| Location | Study period | Attendance options | Available to | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Online | Half Year Period 1 | ||||
| Online | Half Year Period 2 | ||||
View all details for KLA507 Agribusiness Innovation and Entrepreneurship
This unit is the capstone unit in the professional pathway for the MAppSci (Agricultural Science) course. This unit contains a series of case studies, selected from different areas of agriculture, for example, horticulture, animal production, post-harvest processing, vegetable cropping, dairy,…
Credit Points: 25
| Location | Study period | Attendance options | Available to | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hobart | Semester 1 | ||||
| Hobart | Semester 2 | ||||
In this unit, you will develop a proposal to address an industry problem or opportunity. Skills will be developed in compiling a business case or tender for a small project that addresses the industry topic. The proposal will include background…
Credit Points: 25
| Location | Study period | Attendance options | Available to | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hobart | Semester 1 | ||||
| Hobart | Semester 2 | ||||
Master of Agriculture and Food Sciences - Research Pathway
Research Pathway
Research Pathway
In the Master of Agriculture and Food Science Thesis, you will undertake an independent program of research under the supervision of a qualified staff member with expertise in the field of interest. In designing and delivering your research project you…
Credit Points: 25
| Location | Study period | Attendance options | Available to | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hobart | Semester 1 | ||||
| Hobart | Semester 2 | ||||
View all details for KLA711 Master of Agriculture and Food Science Thesis A
In the Master of Agriculture and Food Science Thesis, you will undertake an independent program of research under the supervision of a qualified staff member with expertise in the field of interest. In designing and delivering your research project you…
Credit Points: 25
| Location | Study period | Attendance options | Available to | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hobart | Semester 1 | ||||
| Hobart | Semester 2 | ||||
View all details for KLA714 Master of Agriculture and Food Science Thesis B
In this unit, you will, with assistance and supervision, develop a proposal for a small research project. Skills will be developed in identifying relevant research topics, appropriate funding bodies and developing projects. The proposal will include background to the proposed…
Credit Points: 25
| Location | Study period | Attendance options | Available to | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hobart | Semester 1 | ||||
| Hobart | Semester 2 | ||||
Entry requirements
For Domestic students
2-year MAgFoodSci:
A Bachelor degree in a science related area, and some background (e.g. minor sequence) in sciences relevant to one of the specialisations, completed to a standard of achievement that is deemed acceptable by the College.
1.5-year MAgFoodSci:
A Bachelor degree in a science field with a major in Agricultural Science or Microbiology completed to a standard of achievement that is deemed acceptable by the College.
For International students
Admission to most postgraduate coursework courses at the University of Tasmania require qualifications equivalent to an Australian bachelor degree. Applicants must achieve the required grade in their qualifying studies, meet any prerequisite subjects, and meet English language requirements to be eligible for an offer.
English Language Requirements
For students who do not meet the English Language Requirement through citizenship or prior studies in English in an approved country, evidence of an approved English language test completed within the last 2 years must be provided. See the English Language Requirements page for more information.
English Language Requirements are: IELTS (Academic) 6.0 (no individual band less than 6.0)
Course Specific Requirements
A Bachelor degree in a science related area, and some background (e.g. minor sequence) in sciences relevant to one of the specialisations, completed to a standard of achievement that is deemed acceptable by the College.
Credit transfer
Students in this course may be eligible for a reduction in the volume of learning of:
- up to 100 credit points if they have completed a Bachelor Honours (AQF 8) award in a cognate discipline; or
- up to 50 credit points if they have completed a Bachelor (AQF 7) award in a cognate discipline.
Articulation
Articulation from: students who have completed a cognate Honours degree can be given recognition for prior learning of the entire transition study block and the research / project study block. These students only need to complete the remaining 100 credit points to be awarded the Masters.
Articulation to: graduates are eligible to apply for a Research Higher Degree program, including PhD.
Fees & scholarships
Domestic students
Cost shouldn’t get in the way of you studying.
If you’re a domestic postgraduate student, you might be eligible for a Commonwealth supported place in this course. This means your fees will be subsidised by the Australian Government. You’ll only need to pay the student contribution amount for each unit you study within the course.
You may also be able to defer payment of the student contribution amount by accessing a HECS-HELP loan from the Government. If eligible, you’ll only have to pay your tuition fees once you start earning above a specific amount.
Further information is available at Scholarships, fees and costs.
Student contributionStudent contribution amounts are charged for each unit of study. This means that how much you’ll pay will depend on which units you choose. Find out more about student contribution amounts.
An important note on Youth Allowance and AustudyThe Department of Social Services has approved some accredited and professionally-oriented Master courses for student payments through Youth Allowance or Austudy. This means if you enrol in one of these courses, you may be eligible for student payments. However, please be aware that this is not the case for all Master courses. Please visit our Scholarships, Fees and Costs website for further information.
Further informationDetailed fee information for domestic students is available at Scholarships, fees and costs, including additional information in relation to the compulsory Student Services and Amenities Fee (SSAF).
Domestic students enrolled in certain postgraduate coursework programs may not be eligible for student payments through Youth Allowance and Austudy. Visit the Department of Social Services website to find out more about eligibility for Centrelink support and the list of eligible courses
International students
2024 Total Course Fee (international students): $ 68,071 AUD *.
Course cost based on a rate of $33,450 AUD per standard, full-time year of study (100 credit points).
* Please note that this is an indicative fee only.
International students
International students are charged the Student Services and Amenities Fee but this fee is incorporated in the annual rate. International students do not have to make any additional SSAF payments.
Scholarships
For information on general scholarships available at the University of Tasmania, please visit the scholarships website.
How can we help?
Do you have any questions about choosing a course or applying? Get in touch.
- Domestic
- 13 8827 (13 UTAS)
- International
- +61 3 6226 6200
- Course.Info@utas.edu.au
- Online
- Online enquiries