What is Agriculture?

Agriculture is the art of cultivating the land, primarily for the purposes of growing crops and raising livestock. Daily tasks can include tilling the soil, planting, watering, and harvesting crops, ensuring that livestock are kept clean, healthy and fed; as well as preparing plant and animal products to be transported and sold.

The following are just a few of the many specialised areas of agriculture

  • Horticulture
  • Fisheries
  • Dairy farming
  • Viticulture
  • Livestock production

Agriculture in Australia

Australia’s agricultural industry plays a vital role in our society, as not only does it help to feed and clothe millions of Australians each year, but it contributes roughly 3% of the nation’s entire Gross Domestic Product (GDP). More than 400,000 people are currently employed in agriculture across the country and approximately 385 million hectares of land is utilised for agricultural purposes – this includes 79% of the entire state of Queensland and 72% of New South Wales.

The average salary for Australia’s agricultural professionals varies according to their level of training and experience; for example, agricultural operators bring home roughly $47,136, whereas agricultural scientists make around $71,088. Most of Australia’s agricultural jobs are in Western Australia (37.6%), followed by New South Wales (24%) and South Australia (14.7%).

Agriculture Courses

Agriculture requires a healthy mix of technical knowledge, practical skills, and a can-do attitude, and the best way to get started is with quality education. Whether you’re looking for introductory agriculture courses in Sydney, an in-depth course in Perth, or want to study agriculture online, you’ll find plenty of fantastic options right here, so browse our selection to find one that suits your needs.

Certificate

A Certificate in Agriculture provides a user-friendly way to get started in the industry, with these nationally recognised courses cover the basics of modern agricultural practice and can be completed in as little as 12-18 months. You’ll learn how to use, clean and maintain farming tools and equipment, undergo training in the fundamentals of sustainable resource development and even master the art of keeping accurate records of production. A Certificate III in Agriculture is a common qualification in this industry and can provide you with all the knowledge you need, such as farming basics, machinery and equipment use as well as how to use chemicals effectively. Like many certificates, no previous training or qualifications are needed for these agricultural courses so they’re a perfect pathway to start on to lead you to higher qualifications or help you specialise in a certain area.

Diploma

If you’re working in the industry already and want to update your skills, or simply looking to advance beyond entry-level roles, higher agricultural studies will serve you well. A Diploma of Agriculture covers everything from resource planning, property management and biodynamic farming practices through to the basics of running your own successful agribusiness. Diplomas can take a year or two to complete in this area and include both in-class and online agriculture courses. The benefits of these types of agricultural studies are seemingly endless and can lead to other qualifications in ‘agribusiness’ which is the study of the commercial practices of agriculture. As this area is often very practical in nature, a Diploma of Agriculture online can also involve a number of work placement components, to ensure students have the hands- on skills and training needed to become a professional in the industry.

Bachelor Degree

Want to take your agricultural skills, knowledge and prospects to the next level? If so, a Bachelor of Agriculture or a Bachelor of Agricultural Studies will hold you in good stead, as these widely respected courses delve deeper into the science behind the modern agricultural practice. You will also get trained up in the latest tools and technologies impacting the industry – such as data mining, GPS systems, and cloud computing – and significantly boost your communication, teamwork, and problem-solving skills as well. Agriculture degrees can take upwards of four years full-time to complete but are essential in getting a thorough understanding of the importance of agriculture in the economy, as well as how to implement new practices to improve the quality of crops, as well as the efficiency in their production and cultivation.

Career Prospects in Agriculture

Agriculture has played a pivotal role in keeping people clothed and fed for thousands of years and with the world’s population expected to top eleven billion by the end of the century, the global agricultural industry has never been needed more.

Australia’s agricultural sector is predicted to grow by over 5% by the year 2020 and with major trade deals having recently been signed with South Korea, China and Japan, the future is certainly looking bright.

Is a Career in Agriculture Right for You?

To enjoy a successful career in agriculture, you need to have a keen interest in science and not be afraid to get your hands dirty. You will also need to be a fit, strong and resilient type, as you’ll spend most of each day working outdoors, regardless of the weather conditions.

If the following skills and qualities come naturally to you, you’ll do well in agriculture;

  • Creative problem solving
  • A mind for science
  • Close attention to detail
  • Clear communication
  • A strong work ethic

Think you are ready to join the growing ranks of Australia’s agricultural professionals? Let’s get you started then, shall we? You are sure to find in-class or online agriculture courses to suit your needs here at tafecourses.com.au, so simply find your course, sign up, and start today!