ObjectivesThe course will broaden students' understanding of the industry in which they operate and enhance analytical skills required in the day-to-day work environment.
Entry requirementsTo maximise rewards from undertaking the course, students should have two to five years experience in the agribusiness field. Students do not need an academic background in business or economics, however some understanding of the complex systems involved in agribusiness is assumed.
Academic titleGraduate Certificate in Agribusiness
Course descriptionThe course will broaden the learner's understanding of the industry in which they operate and enhance the analytical skills they bring to bear on problems faced in the day-to-day work environment. Successful applicants will benefit from a focused learning environment involving international university partners, interacting regularly with other students, academic staff, and from active, extensive networking through the annual residential program and electronic assignments, tutorials and frequent online interaction.
This course's orientation is toward those in any agribusiness operation, from large multinationals to small and medium-sized enterprises. The course is designed to take into account both current and anticipated future industry needs. The Karpin Report (Enterprising Nation) identified a need for the development of leadership and a culture of innovation and core business competencies and skills among Australian managers. The Graduate Certificate in Agribusiness course is specifically designed to equip agribusiness managers and professionals with these capabilities.
Direct industry involvement has been sought in the design and to a certain extent, in the delivery of the program. Industry professionals are critical to the success of such a program. This involvement will be valuable in a variety of ways: through active mentoring for students; facilitating the development of case studies from their own operations to enrich the educational offering directly; through potential research projects, and through assistance in course delivery in certain subjects, such as the Leadership subject.
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The course will be offered during four study periods per annum which includes a one-week intensive residential program (Study Period One). The program will be delivered to students as they work in their home or office using online, web-based delivery augmented where necessary by print, CD-ROM, and other learning materials. Examination, if required, will be in the form of an open-book exam, which students will take at home. A team-based approach to problem solving will be fostered. The computer communication will incorporate three main components: subject learning and content; communications including email, online discussions/messaging openly shared by all members and access to remote web sites and databases such as library support.