Program Overview

Master of Agriculture and Food Sciences (Specialisation)

The Master of Agriculture and Food Sciences (Specialisation) course provides graduates with advanced contemporary knowledge in agricultural and food sciences. This course equips students to contribute to the University's strategic goal of enhancing processes and sustainability outcomes in Tasmania's blue and green economies.

Overview

• The course is available for study as both part-time or full-time.
• Duration: Minimum 2 years, up to a maximum of 5 years.
• Location: Hobart, with classes available in Semester 1 and Semester 2.
• Course rules and Australian Qualification Framework level: 9.
• Commonwealth Supported places are available.

Entry Requirements

• For Domestic students:
  • A 2-year MAgFoodSci requires a Bachelor degree in a science-related area with some background in sciences relevant to one of the specialisations.
  • A 1.5-year MAgFoodSci requires a Bachelor degree in a science field with a major in Agricultural Science or Microbiology.
  • A GPA of 75% is required for admission.
• For International students:
  • Qualifications equivalent to an Australian Bachelor degree are required.
  • English Language Requirements: IELTS (Academic) 6.0 (no individual band less than 6.0).
  • A Bachelor degree in a science-related area with some background in sciences relevant to one of the specialisations is required.

Course Structure

The Master of Agriculture and Food Sciences is a two-year course that includes:

• Four core units worth 50 credit points, completed as part of the transition semester.
• A specialisation comprising six units worth 75 credit points, with options including:
  • Sustainable Agricultural Systems
  • Crop Science and Plant Health
  • Food Microbiology
• A research pathway or professional pathway worth 75 credit points, with threshold criteria applying for entry into the research pathway.

Specialisations

• Crop Science and Plant Health: Includes six units focused on improving crop production outcomes and supporting decision-making for plant health and biosecurity.
• Food Microbiology: Includes six units focused on the use of microorganisms in food production and the control of spoilage and pathogenic microorganisms.
• Sustainable Agricultural Systems: Includes six units focused on sustainable practices in livestock farming and landscapes.

Research or Professional Pathway

• Professional Pathway: Includes units such as Leadership, People and Culture, Agribusiness Innovation and Entrepreneurship, Case Studies in Agriculture, and Project Planning.
• Research Pathway: Includes units such as Master of Agriculture and Food Science Thesis A and B, and Research Project Proposals, with threshold entry criteria applying.

Fees and Scholarships

• Domestic students: Tuition fees depend on specific unit enrollment and are subject to annual increases. HECS-HELP loans may be available.
• International students: The total tuition fee for 2026 is $74,723 AUD, with the Student Services and Amenities Fee incorporated into the annual rate.
• Scholarships are available, with information found on the University of Tasmania scholarships website.

Articulation

• Students who have completed a cognate Honours degree may be given recognition for prior learning.
• Graduates are eligible to apply for a Research Higher Degree program, including PhD.