Agriculture is defined by Google’s English Dictionary as ‘the science or practice of farming, including cultivation of the soil for the growing of crops and the rearing of animals to provide food, wool, and other products.’
It is an essential practice in using land and all its assets to regulate and maintain a healthy ecosystem, thus creating a balanced planet earth for all those who inhabit it. Agriculture also has the ability to empower us to make more planet conscious decisions, rearing animals in their natural habitats and encouraging us to look to the land for nourishment rather than plastic packets on shelves.
There are many different careers to choose from in the agriculture industry – with everything from specific crop and plant management, to farm animal care and organic and sustainable farming. There is something to inspire all those who love tending to the natural world and honing its resources.
Starting a career in agriculture
Perhaps you have green fingers? Do you love being outside? Do you care about farm animal care and maintenance? The passion is there, but maybe you’re not quite sure where to channel it?
When it comes to the agriculture industry, getting to know your local land is a great place to start. What are its strengths and weaknesses? Its main agricultural sources? Which animals and plants inhabit it?Â
Once you have a clear overview of the land you’re working with, you can start to fill in the gaps and find a space that you want to work within.
In need of a little inspiration? Don’t sweat it! We have put together a list of our best agriculture and farming courses
For those with a penchant for plants:
Certificate in Viticulture – If you are all about wine, this could be the course for you. Students will be provided with a broad introduction to the scope of the viticultural industry (both relevant to New Zealand and internationally) with in-depth instruction in regards to soil biology and ecology, selection of appropriate grape varieties for local environments, vineyard establishment and vineyard culture and maintenance – from the installation of new grapevines to pest, disease and weed control, to setting up irrigation and adequate nutritional systems; right through to setting up research programs to improve vine productivity, harvesting of produce and lastly wine production.
Certificate in Agronomy – One of the best courses to try if you are new to the agricultural industry. The key areas of knowledge discussed in this course relate to the overall strategic planning and business management of New Zealand farming businesses, broadacre agronomy and agricultural marketing, with a strong focus on developing the skills and knowledge necessary to either run or play a supporting role in farm management as well as, in a commercial agricultural business.
For those who care deeply about the creatures we share the land with:
Certificate in Livestock Management – Proper animal care is one of the more important elements to the agriculture industry. Land-grazing animals are an essential part of the maintenance of a healthy ecosystem – everything works in a cycle, and each part must be correctly tended to and cared for. The key areas of knowledge addressed in the course relate to livestock management in conventional pastoral systems in New Zealand, with a strong focus on developing the skills necessary to analyse and monitor different animal health issues, pastoral growth constraints and several different management structures for livestock systems, as well as the processes involved with the planning of year to year on-farm operations.
Beef Cattle Farming – Being one of the more comprehensive and specific Beef Cattle Farming courses online, this course has been specifically designed from the ground up by industry professionals to put you in good stead to develop a strong foundation of the industry and elevate your expertise above others looking for entry-level employment in this highly competitive industry.
Dairy Cattle Farming – Dairy Cattle Farming makes up a large part of this industry with New Zealand boasting some of the finest Dairy Cattle across the globe. This course will teach not only Dairy Cattle but also Farm Management and is ideal for beginner learners and those who have already completed study in agriculture and farming.
Sheep and Cattle Farming – With so many animal-led agricultural careers to choose from, why not opt for a bit of the best of both worlds, and gain the skills needed to properly care for and maintain environments for different species and breeds of animal.Â
Job opportunities are vast in this industry, and this Sheep and Cattle Farming course is perfect for those looking to break into the industry or for those already working in the industry looking to get an edge on competitors or progress in their role!
Cattle Farming – A course which combines both the skills and knowledge needed to pursue careers in Beef and Dairy Cattle farming. Cows are one of the most predominant farm animals in the agricultural industry, and ensuring they are well cared for is of utmost importance
For the business minded and those who think outside the box:
Certificate in Agriculture – What is an Agriculturalist you ask? Well, the term Agriculturalist can be applied to a broad range of professions, ranging from crop agronomy to livestock and pasture management, farming, farm management and farmhand work, to agricultural real estate sales, marketing and regional sales management. Agriculturists often have cross-functional skills and have the ability to work in several different arms in the agricultural sector. The future of New Zealand agriculture is bright, and individuals can use their skills and knowledge to tailor a career to their personal liking!
The key areas of knowledge discussed in this course relate to the overall strategic planning and business management of New Zealand farming businesses, broadacre agronomy and agricultural marketing, with a strong focus on developing the skills and knowledge necessary to either run or play a supporting role in farm management as well as in a commercial agricultural business.
Certificate in Agribusiness – This course is ideal for individuals who are looking to secure well-paying jobs within the agricultural sector. This refers to individuals who either/or/both are interested in acquiring the knowledge necessary to successfully operate a commercial agricultural enterprise from a sales-driven perspective, for those looking to upskill their current knowledge in regard to agricultural marketing, product development and extension and for those looking to make an entrance into the industry.
Farm Management – In this course, you will learn the skills necessary to not only secure work on a farm but to progress into Farm Management roles or even start your own business! Learn how to handle business financials, risk and human resources in relation to farms while also learning about sustainable farming practices.
Organic Farming and Sustainable Agriculture – Probably the most up and coming agriculture course we have on offer. Organic farming works with nature, rather than against it. It recognises the fact that nature has many complex processes which interact to control pests, diseases and weeds, and to regulate the growth of plants.
Sustainability in Agriculture has become increasingly important in recent times. It is no longer sufficient to just be productive, and the cost of production is no longer just thought of in terms of money. The environmental resources of a farm, as well as the financial, must not deteriorate if a farm is to continue to exist and thrive in the future.
Studies that support your future
One of the most beneficial things you can do to boost your career in the agriculture sector is to find a course tailored to your specific interests. This will offer you a structured learning environment in which to access all the skills you will need to pursue your chosen career, and lead you in the right direction for business and employment opportunities.
Here at My Learning Online we have a whole array of agriculture courses online and different courses in farming for you to choose from, each one professionally tailored to suit your interests. With everything from cattle farming and farm management online, to plant maintenance and sustainable agriculture, My Learning Online is your one-stop shop to get your career off to the best possible start.
Enrolling in any one of our agriculture online courses will give you a flying start in your land-cultivation career. Studying online gives you the freedom and flexibility to learn in a familiar environment, working to suit the demands of your schedule and lifestyle.
All of our courses come with a downloadable brochure, providing more information on course content and modules, assessments, online learning and tutor support. Also, to make financing your studies a little bit more manageable, we offer course fee payment plans.
If you have any questions about enrolling in one of our agriculture and farming courses, our course consultants are on hand to guide and advise you, getting you to where you need to be.
Start working in harmony with Mother Nature and enrol in one of our Agriculture and Farming courses today.
