STUDENTS have hit the books, sheep yards and paddocks for the start of Muresk Institute’s inaugural integrated diploma program, diploma of agriculture.
Developed in collaboration with key industry, training and education partners, including the University of Queensland’s Gatton Vocational Education Centre, the two-year program has been developed specifically for Western Australia’s farming conditions.
Jess Yost from Toodyay is among the first group of students to enrol in the diploma.
Having grown up on a farm, she enjoys the hands-on aspect of working in the industry and the diversity of roles involved.
She is interested in livestock production and wants to learn more about the technical elements of farming.
Muresk Institute general manager Prue Jenkins said the diploma aimed to strengthen agricultural education and skills development in WA.
“The diploma will fill a gap in the market between trade certificate graduates and university degree programs,” she said.
“It can provide graduates with high level, technical skills to prepare them to work in areas such as agricultural production and management, rural merchandising, technical advisory roles, and research and development.
“It will also lead graduates on a pathway directly to industry or higher education, which could include agricultural degree programs in both WA and selected universities in the eastern states.”
Ms Jenkins said the program included a mix of theoretical and practical work, with expert trainers
from the agricultural and agribusiness industry.
“Being a fully operational farm, Muresk provides the ideal location for students to gain hands-on experience
in all facets of farming,” she said.
“This will be supported through the industry placement aspect of the program.
“We have also developed strong industry partnerships, such as with Kalyx Australia and the Department of Agriculture and Food and these will provide further support for students.”
There is still an opportunity to enrol in the diploma.
More information is available from the Muresk Institute website at dtwd.wa.gov.au/mureskinstitute or phone 1300 994 031.
