Master of Precision Agriculture

Summary

Around the world, digital technology is being employed to make agriculture more efficient, productive and sustainable. To ensure global food production meets population needs, there is strong demand for leaders with the technical skills and industry understanding to reshape the future of the agrifoods industry.

Study for free

If you're a New Zealand citizen or permanent resident, residing in New Zealand at the time of study, you may be eligible for free tuition fees. Part time study options may be available. Terms and conditions apply. Learn more.

About this programme

The focus is on learning the technology-based skills, tools and applications that can grow a more productive and more sustainable agrifoods production sector.

With high-level skills and capabilities in data gathering and management, you’ll be of immense value to an exciting range of organisations and businesses.

You can complete the programme in 12 months if you start in February or July. This will include a summer semester from November to February.

How you’ll grow

• Become highly adept at using information management technologies to monitor and manage crops, animals and natural resources across a range of agricultural contexts.
• Grow your ability to discuss the principles and technologies of precision agriculture, and how they apply to cropping, horticulture and livestock cultivation.
• Evaluate how algorithms, sensors and controllable implements are used to ensure effective, precise timing of actions and responses.
• Compare and contrast precision agricultural techniques and how they influence performance, productivity, environment and economy.
• Evaluate how GIS analysis can solve ecological problems.
• Design and adapt systems that incorporate GPS, remote-sensing and multi-thematic data sets effectively through data analysis processes and GIS applications in land-based production systems.
• Recognise the value and potential of a systems-based approach to applying information technologies to decision-making, along with the potential for solving agriculture-related environmental problems through precision agriculture.

Career opportunities

This postgraduate degree expands your opportunities to work as a digitally-literate expert and decision-maker in the primary industries, with large farming corporations and food production organisations.

You’ll be eligible for roles in data-driven science, sustainable production management, strategic management or digital consultancy, with the potential to move into governance.