Study with the Department of Ecological, Plant and Animal Sciences
The Department of Ecological, Plant and Animal Sciences offers undergraduate and postgraduate education programs in agriculture, animal and veterinary sciences, biological sciences, plant sciences, and wildlife and conservation biology.
Our contemporary, evidence-based approach focuses on practical skills and on preparing students for careers that are professionally rewarding and personally fulfilling.
Students receive a balance of practical skills and theoretical knowledge so they can graduate with confidence.
We also offer Honours and Higher Degree by Research programs, where students can study specialisations including botany, crop science, ecology, genetics, plant biotechnology, agronomy, animal and soil science, zoology, or undertake research in a multidisciplinary field.
Courses
Honours
Build upon your bachelor’s degree with La Trobe’s Bachelor of Science/Biomedicine Honours.
Be trained by world-leading experts and use state-of-the-art equipment and techniques as you take on ground-breaking research in your chosen scientific discipline.
Select from a range of laboratory or field-based projects in cardiovascular and cancer research, cell biology, chemistry, microorganisms, anatomy, physiology and pharmacology, animal, plant and ecological studies.
Hone your management and communication skills as you present the findings and real-world implications of your research.
Supportive learning
Our goal is to give students an outstanding experience and produce graduates who are highly skilled, adaptable and ready to make a positive impact on any field they choose to pursue.
We meet regularly with our student representatives, ensuring we are receptive to what is happening and are committed to enhancing their experience with us.
Because we don’t have large class sizes, students have ready access to staff and our world-class teaching facilities.
Our students also have the opportunity to connect socially through the Agriculture Student Society, the Animal and Veterinary Student Society, or a range of other student associations.
Get insight into industry
Our students get the opportunity to interact with professionals in the sector – both through placement opportunities and industry workshops and lectures – gaining insights into industry practices, challenges and innovations.
This exposure to industry helps students to build professional networks that they can draw on long after they graduate.
Bachelor of Agriculture students engage in practical learning opportunities and industry experiences to further develop the skills acquired in La Trobe’s laboratories and field work trips.
Similarly, Bachelor of Veterinary Nursing students undertake placements in various industry settings, including hospitals, animal shelters and farms.
Global knowledge
We recognise that our students will work in Australia and abroad, and they have the opportunity to broaden their horizons through a range of international experiences.
Students can study a full semester abroad or engage in one of our overseas short programs – such as the highly successful 'Vets in the Wild' initiative, a program that offers an exciting, hands-on, in-depth and educational experience, taking participants behind-the-scenes in Southern Africa.
Our academic staff also bring their international experience in research and industry to our curriculum, offering students a global understanding of animal, plant and soil sciences.
The result: Our students are well-equipped with the knowledge, skills and passion to address real world challenges related to sustainable food production, environmental conservation, and the wellbeing of humans and animals.
Find out more about our exchange programs.