Sustainability in agriculture has become increasingly important over recent times. It is no longer enough to be financially productive; a farm’s environmental resources also need to be robust for it to survive. This course is an ideal career-enhancer for anyone working in the agriculture industry – from farmers, consultants and educators to those working in farm supply or farm service businesses.
The Certificate of Sustainable Agriculture is an online professional development program that will give you insights into ‘whole farm’ planning, and how to make a farm more sustainable – both economically and environmentally.
In this sustainable agriculture course, you will study the economic rules that apply to farm enterprise and explore land management programs, such as organic farming, permaculture and biodynamics.
You will also learn about sustainable crop management techniques, how to avoid serious soil and water degradation, and to evaluate the potential and financial viability of animal enterprises.
On completion of this course, you will be able to undertake strategic agricultural planning processes to meet your desired sustainability goals, which can result in the lowering of production costs and the enhancement of yields and profit.
Course Structure
Unit - Sustainable Agriculture
Unit 1 – Introduction
- Whole farm planning
- Land Management programs
- Sustainable ways of farming
- Natural farming
- Organic farming
- Permaculture
- No Dig techniques
- Biodynamics
Unit 2 – Soils
- Growing media
- Major types of soil problems
- Soil structural decline
- Erosion
- Salinity
- Acidification
- Soil improvements
- Phytotoxicity
- Adding organic matter to soils
- Cultivation techniques
- Conservation tillage
- Plant nutrition
- Soil life
- Cover crops
Unit 3 – Water
- Types of water storage
- Livestock water requirements
- Water problems
- Water quality
- Reed beds
- Water saving measures
- Recycling
- Swales and Keylines
- Irrigation systems
Unit 4 – Land Care
- Weed Management
- Preventative measures
- Tree management
- Timber lots/plantations
- Wind breaks
- Wildlife corridors
- Wildlife habitats
- Pest and diseases
Unit 5 – Financial Sustainability
- Economic principles
- Developing a farm business plan
- Financial plan
- Controlling growth
- Value adding
- Enterprise mix
- Eco-tourism
Unit 6 – Broad Management Strategies
- Toward better planning
- Land care or land management
- New enterprises
- Broad management categories
- Marketing
- Personal welfare
- Plan drawing of farm
- Looking at risk
- Quality systems
Unit 7 – Plant Enterprises
- Crop management
- Hydroponic fodder
- Hay
- Considering new crops
- Nuts
- Organic farming
- Agro-forestry
- Hydroponics
- Herbs
Unit 8 – Animal Enterprises
- Deer
- Ostriches
- Emus
- Alpacas
- llama
- Goats
- Aquaculture
- Wool and meat production
- Horses
Study Hours
Estimated duration 50 hours
Course Delivery and Start
Start anytime, self-paced and 100% online
Assessment
Assessment will be comprised of written exercises, including short-answer questions, reflective tasks, short reports and/or projects. There are no examinations or due dates for assessment. As a result, you can complete training in your own time and at your own pace with the assistance of unlimited tutor support.
Approval and Recognition
Australian Online Courses Pty Ltd is an approved and recognised member of IARC. The IARC is an International association that recognises quality and excellence in tertiary education providers.
Testimonials
Graduation
A Certificate of Attainment and Statement of Results will be issued upon successful completion of this course.
How to Enrol
Enrolment Form – Employment Services and Rehabilitation Providers
Enrol via Live Chat (Business Hours)
Enrol via Telephone 1300 76 2221 (Business Hours)
Payment Options
Visa, Mastercard, BPAY and EFT/Direct Deposit. Please allow 1-2 Business days for processing for EFT and BPAY.
Course FAQs
Why Choose Australian Online Courses?
- Professional development that is widely recognised and respected;
- Improve your employment opportunities;
- Study online, anywhere via our elearning system;
- High-quality professional development programs written by industry experts;
- All course materials provided online – no textbooks to buy;
- Unlimited tutor support via email;
- We offer twelve (12) months’ access, with extensions available upon application (fees apply);
- Course may be tax deductible; see your tax advisor.
Are there any entry requirements or pre-requisites?
There are no course or subject pre-requisites for entry into our programs. However, our professional development programs are generally intended for people over the age of 18. In some circumstances, enrolments from younger people may be considered. Please complete the AOC Parent Guardian Consent Form prior to enrolling and submit here.
Are there any computer requirements?
To study online with Australian Online Courses you will need a computer (desktop PC/laptop) running a current/updated operating system with reliable high-speed internet access. You will need to use the Google Chrome browser to access your course.
When can I start this course?
You can start within 60 minutes during business hours when you enrol and pay in full with a credit card!
Credit card: Within 60 mins during business hours.
BPAY: Within 1-2 working days.
Internet Banking: Within 1-2 working days.
Cheque/Money Order: Upon receipt of mailed cheque.
How is this course delivered?
This course is delivered online via our easy-to-navigate Learning Management System (LMS), where you will discover interactive online learning/written content, resources and assessment.
Do I need to attend classes or undertake any work placements?
No. All courses are delivered online via our LMS and there are no work placement requirements in this course.
What support can I expect from Australian Online Courses?
Unlimited tutor support is available throughout your studies via email only during business hours Monday to Friday. Our Administrative team are available Monday to Friday via email, live chat and telephone.
I am an international student. Can I enrol into this course?
Yes! We accept enrolments from individuals both within Australia and internationally; location is no barrier to entry into our programs.
Career Pathways
Future growth
Strong
Unemployment
Low
Professional Development for:
- Hobby Farmers
- Farm Consultants
- Farm Managers
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