University of Queensland
Graduate Certificate in Agricultural Science
- Delivery: Face to Face
- Study Level: Postgraduate
- Duration: 6 months
- Course Type: Graduate Certificate
Gain the skills needed to address global environmental challenges and improve agricultural practices anywhere in the world.
Course overview
This program is suitable for recent graduates from any discipline, as well as professionals seeking to update or expand their skills. Studies can be tailored to individual interests, supporting career opportunities across government, commercial, community and research roles.
Teaching is delivered by highly awarded academics and focuses on current developments in agricultural science, including precision agriculture, genetic technologies and sustainable resource management. Students gain access to leading animal and agricultural facilities in the Southern Hemisphere, specialist research greenhouses and more than 1,000 hectares of working farmland.
Graduates are prepared to apply leadership, research and problem-solving skills to address global challenges in food production, environmental sustainability, animal welfare, biosecurity and limited resources. The Graduate Certificate in Agricultural Science may also serve as a pathway into the master’s program.
CSP Subsidised Fees Available
This program has a limited quota of Commonwealth Supported Places (CSP). The indicative CSP price is calculated based on first year fees for EFT. The actual fee may vary if there are choices in electives or majors.
Key facts
What you will study
To earn the Graduate Certificate in Agricultural Science, you must complete eight units or four courses comprising:
Zero to four units from GCAgrSc Foundational Courses
- Emerging Issues in Plant and Animal Biosciences (two units) or;
- Global Challenges in Agriculture (two units)
- Leadership in Rural Industries and Communities (two units)
- Plant Physiology (two units)
- Sustainable Soil Management (two units)
Four to eight units from GCAgrSc Program Elective Courses
- Advanced Agronomy (two units)
- Integrated Crop Health and Management (two units)
- Crop Physiology (two units)
- Agricultural and Resource Policy (two units)
- International Agricultural Development (two units)
- Horticulture Production (two units)
- Plant Protection (two units)
Entry requirements
To be eligible for entry, you'll need:
- A bachelor's degree (or equivalent) in any discipline or;
- Two years full-time equivalent, relevant work experience.
You must have a grade point average (GPA) of 4.0 on a 7-point scale in your previous degree.
Recognition of Prior Learning
Your previous studies can be acknowledged as credit towards your postgraduate studies, provided that they meet the relevant course requirements.
If you receive an offer of enrolment and you’ve undertaken prior learning, you may be eligible to apply for Recognition of Prior Learning. The procedure is governed by the university's Recognition of Prior Learning policy. Contact the university for more details.
Outcomes
Career outcomes
This postgraduate study can take you anywhere. Here are some of the careers you could be on your way to:
- Agricultural Consultant
- Animal Research Scientist
- Agricultural Economist
- Extension and Inspection Officer
- Land Information Systems Officer
Fees and CSP
Indicative annual fee in 2026: $2,370 (Commonwealth Supported Place)
All costs are calculated using current rates and are based on a study load of eight units (normally four courses) per semester or year.
Student fees may vary in accordance with:
- The number of courses studied per term.
- The choice of major or specialisation.
- Choice of courses.
- Credit from previous study or work experience.
- Eligibility for government-funded loans.
You may also need to pay the student services and amenities fee.
Student fees shown are subject to change. Contact the university directly to confirm.
Commonwealth Supported Places
The Australian Government allocates a certain number of CSPs to the universities each year, which are then distributed to students based on merit.
If you're a Commonwealth Supported Student (CSS), you'll only need to pay a portion of your tuition fees. This is known as the student contribution amount – the balance once the government subsidy is applied. This means your costs are much lower.
Limited CSP spaces are offered to students enrolled in selected postgraduate courses.
Your student contribution amount is:
- Calculated per the course you're enrolled in.
- Dependent on the study areas they relate to.
- Reviewed and adjusted each year.
HECS-HELP loans are available to CSP students to pay the student contribution amount.