Associate Degree of Farm Business Management

The Associate Degree of Farm Business Management at Marcus Oldham College focuses on the business side of running agricultural operations in Australia. Students learn about strategic planning, financial management, human resource practices, risk management, and agribusiness marketing. The curriculum features practical and theoretical units to address common challenges in Australian agriculture, such as farm succession planning and changing market conditions.

Courses are organised as units of study delivered over three years, with each unit contributing to the required credit points to complete the associate degree. Marcus Oldham College is known for close connections to the Australian farming sector, so teaching is grounded in real-world examples and often includes site visits, case studies, and industry guest speakers. Practical experience is central, with work-integrated learning a key focus, students undertake professional placements on Australian farms or agribusinesses, building networks and gaining practical insights.

Core skills include interpreting farm financial reports, developing business plans, leading teams, and improving farm enterprise efficiency. There is training in software and digital tools relevant to farm management. The programme is particularly suitable for students interested in stepping into management roles in family-owned or corporate farms or supporting rural business ventures. International students must meet English requirements. This course is registered on CRICOS, making it suitable for those on a student visa, and students have the right to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during sessions.

Anyone keen on making farm businesses more successful in the Australian context, whether returning to a family property, starting their own agribusiness, or moving into rural consultancy, will find the content practical and directly related to current industry needs. Always confirm unit options, credit requirements, and placement arrangements through the official Marcus Oldham College website.

• Farm manager or assistant manager in family or corporate farms
• Agribusiness supervisor
• Rural consultant or advisor
• Business development officer for agricultural suppliers
• Farm succession and planning roles
• Support positions in government or private rural agencies

Graduates find work throughout Australia’s agriculture, food production, and agribusiness sectors.