Agricultural Chemistry

Agricultural chemistry is the study of both chemistry and biochemistry which are important in agricultural production, the processing of raw products into foods and beverages, and in environmental monitoring and remediation. These studies emphasise the relationships between plants, animals and bacteria and their environment.

www.agric.usyd.edu.au

What do Agricultural Chemists do?

Agricultural chemists work in a wide range of occupations in public and private enterprises. Agricultural chemists are often employed to analyse agricultural and food products to ensure product quality and safety. They may also be engaged in environmental monitoring and remediation. This may involve the development of new technology for the specification and processing of raw products and in the protection of our environment.

Employment opportunities in the food and beverage sector include positions in the wine and brewing industries and in cereal chemistry. Research and development into the production of processed products from cereal crops is of increasing importance.

Positions are also available in environmental chemistry, environmental monitoring, pollution control and bioremediation in both rural and urban environments.

Professional Recognition

Students who complete the sequence of courses in agricultural chemistry in the Bachelor of Science degree are eligible for graduate membership of the Royal Australian Chemical Institute (RACI).

How do you study Agricultural Chemistry?

You can major in agricultural chemistry in the Bachelor of Science and Liberal Studies degrees.

What will you study?

FIRST YEAR
There are no first year units in agricultural chemistry, however all students must study first year chemistry.

SECOND YEAR
The study of agricultural chemistry begins in second year when you will study aspects of analytical chemistry, environmental chemistry, and biochemistry. You will also be introduced to the basic instrumentation widely used in the environmental and biological sciences.

THIRD YEAR
In third year you will study more specialised material including separate units on rural environmental chemist and/or food chemistry and biochemistry.

You can choose to combine your major in agricultural chemistry with any other major available.

Further studies

An Honours year is available and requires a fourth year of study and research. If you are interested in undertaking further research into agricultural chemistry you can undertake a Masters or PhD.