Course Overview

About This Course

Download course brochure Upgrade your knowledge and skills or pivot your career by developing expertise in sustainable, science-based agricultural systems of production through UNE's Master of Rural Science. This postgraduate degree offers a supportive program of independent research related to practical and sustainable production of food and fibre. UNE is a leading innovator in teaching and research in the agricultural sciences. Your advanced knowledge and skillset will prepare you for high-level work in this rapidly evolving industry. Why study the Master of Rural Science with UNE? Our Master of Rural Science provides a program of independent, supervised research for high-calibre graduates that will enable you to make an advanced contribution to scholarship in a scientific field of knowledge related to the provision of food and fibre for world needs. We have active research programs in livestock production efficiency and cabon management, integrated animal health and welfare, livestock and product quality, soil science, soil pollution, organic farming, terrestrial carbon, cotton and grains, weed science and sustainable farming. For over 60 years UNE has been a leader of agricultural education and research. The visionary, pioneering work carried out by Professor Bill McClymont at UNE laid the groundwork for our modern understanding of agricultural systems. McClymont's holistic model is still used today to maximise production without losing focus on sustainable ecological, economic, social and environmental contexts. UNE maintains close links with the agricultural industry derived from our long experience in the teaching and research of agriculture. Our academics are at the forefront of innovation, leading research and development into agricultural sciences and agricultural systems. With a science-based, practical approach to problem solving at farm, catchment and industry level, our Master of Rural Science graduates are renowned for effectively developing and communicating solutions for all levels of rural production and agricultural systems. Our research facilities are world class. You will have access to the latest state-of-the-art infrastructure and technology for research at our innovative SMART Farms , laboratories and glasshouse facilities to develop science-based innovation to provide solutions for industry, now and into the future. UNE is Australia's longest continuous provider of distance (online) education. We're here to help you adapt to a rapidly-evolving world with skills and knowledge to prepare you for professional opportunities. What makes our course different? Our Master of Rural Science allows you to develop high-level, cutting-edge research skills, leading to an original contribution to knowledge via a thesis. Through our course you can: Direct your career by choosing your specialist research topic within such areas as genetics and breeding, nutrition, animal health and reproduction, physiology, animal behaviour, animal products: fibre, meat, eggs, cotton, soil science, soil pollution, plant production systems and sustainable farming systems. Be part of a vibrant research-led academic community. Develop high-level research skills and methodology and enhance your critical thinking, problem-solving and communication skills. Work with research groups that rank amongst the best in the world. UNE's Rural Science based research is internationally renowned, and in the most recent independent assessment by the Australian Research Council, Excellence in Research Australia , we achieved outstanding results. Across a range of disciplines our research was given the top rating of 'well above world average'. Progress to a PhD in your chose field of research. Study flexibly either on campus, or online at home to suit your lifestyle and other commitments. If you are an Australian or New Zealand student and meet the criteria for entry to the Master of Rural Science, you may be funded under the Australian Government's Research Training Program (RTP) and may not incur tuition fees for the duration of the course. If you are an international student, you will incur tuition fees. Internal funding is available to support research projects and UNE offers a range of scholarships for Higher Degree Research students. Study online Most of our students choose to study online across three study periods with 24/7 tutor support* and fit study around work and family commitments. Uniquely, our online students are mostly over 30 and bring valuable experience with them. They form a community of adults juggling the same challenges and priorities and who bring their life and work experience together at UNE in order to become future-fit and better respond to a rapidly changing world. Study on campus Many of our students choose to take advantage of the on-campus lifestyle in Armidale, in the beautiful New England region, with access to unparalleled support, accommodation and sporting facilities. These students are often starting their first degree and have left school recently. Through access to academic and career support they get a fantastic start to their careers.

24/7 tutor support includes: essay feedback (within 24 hours); live chat 24/7 for generic feedback on academic writing; and subject-specific help at a foundation or first-year level for subjects including mathematics, chemistry, biology, physics, business, accounting, microeconomics, macroeconomics and statistics. There are also a wide range of workshops, resources and courses available in academic skills support to assist you and help you to succeed. Show more

Where You Can Study

Available Locations

Sydney

211 Church St, Parramatta, NSW 2150

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Eligibility

Entry Requirements

General Requirements

To be eligible to apply for this course you must meet one of the following entry requirements: You have completed a Bachelor with Honours qualification (AQF Level 8 or overseas equivalent) with a minimum result of second class honours or equivalent. You have completed an AQF Level 7 qualification (or overseas equivalent) and you have had adequate relevant preparation since graduation.* Eligibility for admission is reviewed by the Associate Dean Research (ADR) or delegate. The Director Graduate Research has final authority for approving admission to research higher degrees. All admissions are subject to the HDR Admission and Enrolment Policy . All applicants must meet the English Language Requirements for all Higher Degree by Research candidates (see English Language Requirements higher than the University Minimum Annex ).

Adequate relevant preparation may be gained through an approved academic course, professional training, work experience or peer reviewed publications. See our Glossary for help with university terms. Additional requirements for all applicants These requirements are in addition to the entry requirements above. English Language Requirements When applying you may be required to show how you satisfy the English Language Requirements for this course. International applicants, please note: You may also need to show evidence of your English language proficiency to the Department of Home Affairs if you are applying for a Student Visa. Supporting documents Some courses require you to provide documentary evidence, or interviews to support your application. The following documents are required to support your application: Previous qualifications documentation. You must provide a certified/notarised copy of your official transcript(s) and certificate(s) for all previous tertiary study. You do not need to provide transcripts for any previous study completed at UNE. For information on getting your documents certified/notarised, please refer to our Document Certification Guidelines . If your qualification documentation is provided in a language other than English, you need to provide certified copies of your original documents and English translations, with evidence that the translation is accurate. Evidence of supervision. You must provide evidence that at least one UNE academic staff member has agreed to support your application/supervise your research. For example, email communication with your proposed supervisor, or a successful expression of interest. Research proposal. You must submit a research proposal which you will complete in consultation with your potential supervisor. Your proposal must not be longer than three A4 pages. Please refer to the HDR Application Guidelines for the suggested format and templates. Referee reports . You must nominate two people (preferably external to UNE) who can testify to your academic achievements. You will need to contact your referees prior to lodging your application and request that they complete the online HDR Referee Report form . UNE cannot request these reports on your behalf. Proof of identity and citizenship . All documents provided must be a certified/notarised copy . Australian citizens must provide a birth certificate, passport or citizenship certificate. New Zealand citizens must provide a passport. Australian Permanent Residents must provide a passport and visa, and the date you became a permanent resident. International applicants must provide a passport, and evidence of the country you hold citizenship in; for example, a foreign government identity card. Evidence of English Language Requirements satisfied. All applicants need to provide documented evidence that they meet English Language Requirements as per section 12 of the English Language Requirements Higher than the University Minimum Requirement Annex , unless English is the applicants first language and they are from an English speaking Group A country, as per section 74 of the Admission, Credit and Enrolment Policy . Advanced standing and credit for prior learning Advanced Standing is credit or recognition of your previous study, work and/or life experience. This can reduce the cost and length of your studies. You can apply for Advanced Standing for coursework already completed as part of other qualifications. The relevant Associate Dean Research or delegate will assess and approve Advanced Standing as part of your admission to candidature.

Career & Study Pathways

Where this takes you

Career Opportunities

Career outcomes Agricultural scientists are in high demand. Your career opportunities could include: research organisations, e.g. CSIRO, DAWE, ABARES state government agencies agricultural planning and advisory consultants commercial agricultural research providers universities and research institutes. Other career information UNE’s Master of Rural Science provides you with the potential to open doors to high-level opportunities in agricultural industries and further research opportunities.

Quality & Recognition

Accreditation & Migration

Academic Regulator

TEQSA

Accreditation Status

Accredited

Common Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the total estimated cost of the Master of Rural Science at the University of New England?

The estimated total course cost is AU$73,992, which comprises a tuition fee of AU$68,992 and a non-tuition fee of AU$5,000.

How long does the Master of Rural Science take to complete?

The Master of Rural Science has a duration of 112 weeks.

Is the Master of Rural Science eligible for extended Post-Study Work Rights?

To be eligible for extended Post-Study Work Rights, a course must meet criteria including being in 'Registered' status, being a Skills Level 1 qualification, having a duration of 92 weeks or greater, and having its narrow Field of Education aligned with the Skills Level 1 priority list. The Master of Rural Science is 112 weeks in duration and falls within the Agriculture narrow field, so it may qualify, but eligibility is reviewed yearly and requires at least one active enrolment at the time of review.

What field of education does the Master of Rural Science fall under?

The Master of Rural Science falls under the broad field of Agriculture, Environmental and Related Studies (05), with a narrow field of Agriculture (0501) and a detailed field of Agricultural Science (050101).

Where is the Master of Rural Science delivered?

The Master of Rural Science is delivered at the University of New England's campus in Armidale, New South Wales, which is a location owned and operated by the provider under CRICOS Provider Code 00003G.

Application

How to Apply

Three simple steps to get enrolled

Step 01

Enquire

Click "Enquire Now" and tell us a little about yourself. It's free and takes 2 minutes.

Step 02

Submit Documents

Our team will guide you on exactly which documents to prepare and submit.

Step 03

Get Enrolled

Receive your offer letter and confirm your enrolment. Welcome to the course!

Processing time: Offer letter issued within approximately 1 business days.

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