| Course Level: | Bachelor's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Duration: | 4 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | Class 12th | |
| Course Level: | Bachelor's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Duration: | 4 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | Class 12th | |
The Dookie Campus is the University of Melbourne’s agricultural and environmental sciences hub, located in regional Victoria. It’s one of the oldest and most respected agricultural colleges in Australia, dating back to 1886. It plays a key role in teaching, research, and practical training in agriculture and related fields.
Dookie, Victoria 3646, Australia
About 30 km east of Shepparton, and roughly 2.5 hours' drive from Melbourne
Set in a rural, farm-based environment—ideal for hands-on agricultural learning
Google Maps link: University of Melbourne - Dookie Campus
2,440-hectare working farm, including:
Cropping land
Dairy farm
Sheep and beef cattle
Orchard and vineyard
Research and training facilities:
Agri-tech labs
Viticulture and oenology facilities
On-site accommodation for students and staff
Sustainability initiatives including renewable energy projects and water management
Dookie is primarily a practical training campus—students often visit Dookie as part of degrees taught at the Parkville (main) campus, but some study is conducted here as part of specific programs.
Bachelor of Agriculture
Diploma in General Studies
Postgraduate coursework and research in agricultural science
Field trips for:
Science
Veterinary Science
Environmental Science
Food Science students
Dookie Campus has strong ties with:
Agriculture and food industries
Government bodies (like Agriculture Victoria)
Agri-tech startups and sustainability consultancies
Cooperative research centers (CRCs)
Farming networks across regional Victoria
Career paths:
Agronomist
Farm manager
Agricultural researcher
Agri-tech specialist
Food production and supply chain roles
Environmental consultant
Small, close-knit student community
Rural lifestyle with a focus on fieldwork, collaboration, and real-world experience
Accommodation and meals available on campus
Community events, farm-based projects, and sustainability programs
Dookie Campus is often used for field schools and intensive programs, where students live on-site and fully immerse themselves in hands-on agriculture over a few weeks!
Primary undergraduate degree associated with Dookie
While the degree is based at Parkville Campus, students undertake practical components at Dookie
Includes field trips, lab work, and farm-based experience
Majors include:
Agricultural Science
Production Animal Science
Plant and Soil Science
Offers a pathway into University of Melbourne degrees
Delivered on-site at Dookie Campus
Broad foundational program across:
Science
Agriculture
Commerce
Education
Includes agriculture-focused streams and hands-on training
Dookie supports research projects in:
Agricultural science
Crop and livestock systems
Soil and plant nutrition
Climate change and sustainability in agriculture
Research students are often based at Dookie if their project involves lab/fieldwork on-site
Students from other programs (Science, Veterinary, Environmental Studies, etc.) come to Dookie for intensive short-term courses or field schools
These are usually part of:
Bachelor of Science
Bachelor of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences
Master of Agricultural Sciences
Dookie Campus plays a major role in:
Precision agriculture
Sustainable water and land use
Agri-tech and innovation
Food production systems
Viticulture and wine science
Course Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees per Year (USD) |
Dookie Campus Involvement |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Bachelor of Agriculture |
3 years |
~$33,000 – $36,000 |
Major fieldwork and practicals at Dookie |
|
Diploma in General Studies (DiGS) |
1 year |
~$20,000 – $22,000 |
Entirely taught at Dookie Campus |
|
Bachelor of Science (with Agriculture electives) |
3 years |
~$36,000 – $40,000 |
Some field schools at Dookie (optional) |
|
Bachelor of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences |
3 years (standard) |
~$39,000 – $42,000 |
Includes field trips and practicals at Dookie |
Course Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees per Year (USD) |
Dookie Campus Involvement |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Master of Agricultural Sciences |
2 years |
~$36,000 – $40,000 |
Fieldwork, research, and practicals at Dookie |
|
Master of Food Science |
2 years |
~$38,000 – $42,000 |
May include industry visits or fieldwork at Dookie |
|
Master of Science (Biosciences / Agriculture-related) |
2 years |
~$37,000 – $41,000 |
Research projects may be Dookie-based |
|
Master of Philosophy (MPhil) – Agri Sciences |
1.5 – 2 years |
~$35,000 – $38,000 |
Research-focused, may be based fully at Dookie |
|
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) |
3 – 4 years |
~$35,000 – $38,000 |
Research typically conducted at Dookie for agri topics |
Course Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees per Year (USD) |
Dookie Campus Involvement |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) – Agricultural Sciences |
3 – 4 years |
~$35,000 – $38,000 |
Research often conducted fully at Dookie |
|
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) – Veterinary Science |
3 – 4 years |
~$35,000 – $38,000 |
Animal studies, field trials may be based at Dookie |
|
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) – Science (Biosciences) |
3 – 4 years |
~$35,000 – $38,000 |
Plant, soil, or environmental biosciences research |
|
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) – Environmental Science |
3 – 4 years |
~$35,000 – $38,000 |
Projects on sustainability, land, water at Dookie |
|
Master of Philosophy (MPhil) |
1.5 – 2 years |
~$34,000 – $36,000 |
Often a pathway or shorter research alternative |
The Dookie Campus is the University of Melbourne’s agricultural and environmental science campus, located in regional Victoria. It's especially known for its focus on hands-on agricultural training, sustainability, and field-based research.
It’s ideal for international students who are passionate about:
Agriculture
Food security
Environmental sustainability
Animal and plant science
Rural and regional development
Dookie is about 2.5 hours northeast of Melbourne and around 30 minutes from Shepparton. It’s set in a rural area surrounded by farmland, making it a perfect setting for agriculture-focused studies. The environment is peaceful, community-oriented, and ideal for focused learning and research.
International students don’t usually study full-time degrees solely at Dookie. Instead, you’ll most likely:
Be enrolled in a program based at the Parkville Campus (main campus in Melbourne)
Travel to Dookie for practical training, field schools, or research work
Popular programs for international students that involve Dookie include:
Bachelor of Agriculture
Diploma in General Studies (taught entirely at Dookie)
Master of Agricultural Sciences
PhD and MPhil research degrees in Agriculture, Environmental Science, or Veterinary Science
Dookie offers:
A 2,400+ hectare working farm (with crops, vineyards, orchards, livestock)
Laboratories, glasshouses, and agricultural research facilities
Accommodation and meals for students staying short- or long-term
Opportunities for research assistant work, farm-based internships, and on-site projects
For international students, tuition fees vary depending on the course:
Bachelor-level degrees: ~$33,000 – $40,000 USD per year
Master’s degrees: ~$36,000 – $42,000 USD per year
PhD/MPhil research: ~$35,000 – $38,000 USD per year
(These are estimates; exact fees depend on your course and subject selection)
A rare chance to study agriculture in a real farm setting
Close ties to industry and research partners
Access to research scholarships and supervised PhD projects
A supportive, small-campus community
Deep dive into sustainable farming, climate change, and food systems
Even though Dookie is regional, you’re fully supported by the University of Melbourne’s international office, including:
Visa and COE help
Orientation and student support
Accommodation support (both on-campus and regional housing)
Access to the same career services, job boards, and research resources as students in Melbourne
Most programs connected with Dookie are not delivered fully at the campus, but include fieldwork or practical components there. Choose from:
Diploma in General Studies (taught fully at Dookie)
Bachelor of Agriculture
Master of Agricultural Sciences
PhD or MPhil in Agriculture / Environmental Science / Veterinary Science
You’ll apply through the University of Melbourne's central application system, even for programs that involve Dookie Campus.
Requirements vary by program, but typically include:
For Undergraduate (e.g. Bachelor of Agriculture / DiGS):
Completion of Year 12 or equivalent (e.g. CBSE, IB, A-levels)
Minimum academic average (usually ~65–75%)
English language proficiency (IELTS 6.5 overall, no band < 6.0 or equivalent)
For Postgraduate (e.g. Master of Agricultural Sciences):
Bachelor’s degree in a related field (agriculture, science, biology, etc.)
Academic average of ~65% or above
English language requirements as above
For PhD / MPhil:
Master’s degree or strong Honours degree in a related field
Research proposal
Academic references
Supervisor confirmation (you must have a research supervisor before applying)
You'll need:
Academic transcripts (translated if not in English)
English test scores (IELTS, TOEFL, or equivalent)
Personal statement or research proposal (for research degrees)
Resume/CV (postgraduate only)
Passport copy
Go to: University of Melbourne International Applications Portal
Create an account
Submit your application and documents
Pay the application fee (around AUD $130 for most programs)
If successful, you'll receive either a Full Offer or Conditional Offer
For research students, the offer may depend on supervisor and project approval
Accept your offer online
Pay the tuition deposit (if required)
Receive a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) to apply for your Australian Student Visa (Subclass 500)
Application Deadlines: Vary by course; apply at least 3–6 months in advance
Scholarships: International students can apply for scholarships like the Melbourne International Undergraduate Scholarship or Melbourne Research Scholarship (for PhD)
Major intakes:
Semester 1 (February/March)
Semester 2 (July) (limited programs only)
The Diploma in General Studies (DiGS) at Dookie typically starts in Semester 1 only.
Semester 1 (February/March) – Main intake
Semester 2 (July) – Available for some specialisations
Flexible intake – can start any time of year
Start date depends on your supervisor availability and project funding/scholarship timelines
Completion of Year 12 or equivalent international qualification
No prerequisite subjects
IELTS 6.0 overall (no band below 5.5)
Available to both recent school leavers and non-school leavers
Completion of Year 12 (Australian or equivalent international qualification, like:
IB Diploma
A-levels
Indian CBSE/ISC with ~65–70%+ in relevant subjects
Prerequisites:
English
One of: Biology, Chemistry, or Mathematics
IELTS 6.5 overall (no band below 6.0)
A completed Bachelor’s degree in:
Agriculture, Animal Science, Biology, Plant Science, Environmental Science, or a related field
Minimum GPA of 65%+ (varies slightly by region/system)
IELTS 6.5 overall (no band <6.0) or TOEFL iBT 79+
A Master’s degree or Honours-level Bachelor’s in a relevant field
Strong academic results and research background
A research proposal
Find and confirm a supervisor before applying
IELTS 6.5 overall (no band below 6.0), or TOEFL iBT 79+
Ranking Agency |
Global Rank (Overall) |
Subject Rank – Agriculture & Forestry / Environmental Science |
|---|---|---|
|
QS World University Rankings |
Top 35 globally |
Top 20 in Agriculture & Forestry |
|
US News & World Report (Best Global Universities) |
Top 30 globally |
Top 25 in Agricultural Sciences |
|
Times Higher Education (THE) |
Top 40 globally |
Top 30 in Life Sciences / Environmental Science |
|
Academic Ranking of World Universities (ARWU / Shanghai Ranking) |
Top 40 globally |
Top 30 in Agricultural Sciences |
Scholarship Name |
Level |
Amount / Coverage |
Eligibility |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Melbourne International Undergraduate Scholarship |
Undergraduate |
25%, 50%, or 100% tuition fee remission |
High-achieving international students |
|
Graduate Research Scholarships (MRS) |
Master's by Research / PhD |
Full tuition + stipend (~$34,000/year AUD) |
Academic merit, research potential |
|
Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences Graduate Research Scholarship |
PhD / MPhil |
Full fee waiver + living allowance |
Enrolled in agriculture, veterinary, or related research |
|
Melbourne Research Scholarship (Agricultural Sciences) |
PhD / MPhil |
Full tuition + stipend + relocation grant |
Outstanding academic record and research proposal |
|
Destination Australia Scholarship (Dookie Eligible) |
Undergraduate / Postgraduate |
AUD $15,000 per year (up to 4 years) |
Must study at a regional campus like Dookie |
|
AgriFutures Horizon Scholarship (external) |
Undergraduate (Ag-focused) |
Up to AUD $10,000/year + mentoring |
Australian citizens only; studying agri-related degree |
|
Commonwealth Research Scholarships |
PhD / Research Masters |
Tuition + living expenses |
Competitive, based on research excellence |
Facility Type |
Details |
Estimated Cost (Per Week in USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
On-Campus Accommodation (Shared) |
Shared dormitory-style rooms with shared bathrooms and common areas |
~$120 – $150 |
|
On-Campus Accommodation (Single Room) |
Private furnished room, shared facilities (kitchen, laundry) |
~$160 – $190 |
|
Meals (Catered Options) |
Meal plans available during field schools and intensive stays |
~$80 – $120 (per week) |
|
Self-Catering Facilities |
Fully equipped communal kitchen available to students |
Included in accommodation |
|
Laundry Facilities |
Washing machines and dryers on site |
~$3–5 per use |
|
Wi-Fi & Utilities |
Included in accommodation fees |
Included |
|
Campus Amenities |
Study spaces, recreational areas, outdoor BBQ, bike storage |
Free for residents |
|
Transport (to/from Shepparton) |
Limited shuttle/bus services for students, especially during term starts |
~$5–$10 per trip |
Dookie Campus offers a completely unique student experience, especially if you're coming from a big city. It's set in the rural countryside of Victoria, surrounded by open farmland, rolling hills, and a working agricultural landscape. Student life here is all about community, hands-on learning, and close connections with fellow students and academic staff.
Dookie is built around a 2,400-hectare working farm, so daily life blends academic study with practical, outdoor activities. Depending on your program, you might:
Join in harvesting crops or caring for livestock
Conduct soil and water quality tests
Work on sustainability projects or renewable energy trials
Take part in seasonal field schools, workshops, or group research
Dookie isn’t a massive campus—it’s small, friendly, and welcoming. Everyone knows everyone, and there's a strong sense of community among students, lecturers, and staff. Because of the small numbers, it's easy to make friends and get involved.
There are shared accommodation options and communal kitchens, so students often cook and eat together, creating a cozy and inclusive vibe.
Student life at Dookie is peaceful and scenic. When you're not in class or working on projects, you can:
Go hiking or biking in the surrounding countryside
Visit nearby wineries or regional towns like Shepparton
Stargaze at night—no light pollution out here!
Chill with friends at the BBQ areas or study lounges
It’s a great lifestyle if you enjoy nature, fresh air, and quiet surroundings.
Dookie is especially active during intensive teaching blocks, where students from the main Parkville campus come for short stays (1–4 weeks). During these times, the campus feels more alive with activity, workshops, field trips, and lab work.
Postgraduate and research students may stay longer, working closely with supervisors on-site. You’ll have access to labs, farm data, and collaborative projects with industry and government.
Dookie is a rural campus, so transport is important:
The university often arranges group travel for field schools
Some students bring their own car or bike
Shepparton is about 30 minutes away, with shops, cafes, and a train to Melbourne
While it's not a party campus, there are still events and activities organized throughout the year:
Social dinners and BBQs
Movie nights or quiz nights in common rooms
Club and society events (especially during field schools)
Outdoor games and casual sport
Many students say Dookie helps them focus—fewer distractions, more connection to the land and to their studies. It’s ideal if you’re passionate about agriculture, sustainability, or environmental science, and want a hands-on, community-driven experience.
While the Dookie Campus itself is not a traditional placement office or standalone job hub, it plays a vital role in providing practical skills, industry exposure, and research experience that lead to strong employment opportunities—especially in agriculture, food systems, animal and plant science, and environmental sustainability.
Placements are generally coordinated through the main University of Melbourne Career Services and the Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, but students studying at Dookie benefit from industry connections, hands-on learning, and research-based work placements.
Graduates and students involved at Dookie often pursue careers in:
Agronomy and Crop Science
Farm and Property Management
Animal Production and Nutrition
Food Technology and Supply Chain
Environmental and Sustainability Consulting
Viticulture and Winemaking
Government and Policy (e.g., Agriculture Victoria, CSIRO, Department of Environment)
Agri-tech and Precision Farming Startups
R&D roles in multinational agricultural firms
Dookie Campus has links with:
AgriBio (Centre for AgriBioscience)
CSIRO (Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation)
Agriculture Victoria
Horticulture Innovation Australia
Rabobank, Elders, and other agribusiness firms
Environmental NGOs and sustainability consultancies
These partnerships support student research, internships, and graduate job pathways.
Industry internships embedded in programs like the Master of Agricultural Sciences
Capstone projects and research linked to real-world agricultural challenges
Field schools and short-term research at Dookie that build in-demand technical and soft skills
Faculty-arranged opportunities with private farms, agri-tech firms, and research institutions
The University of Melbourne consistently reports:
High employability rates (within 6 months of graduation)
Strong demand for graduates in regional and rural Australia, especially those with practical training
Competitive salaries in agricultural, environmental, and science roles
Career workshops, resume and interview support via the university's central Careers & Employability service
Access to Handshake (student job platform)
Guidance from academic advisors and placement coordinators
Scholarships and funding for industry-based learning
Program Type |
Estimated Acceptance Rate |
Comments |
|---|---|---|
|
Diploma in General Studies (DiGS) |
~80–90% |
Entry-level program with flexible entry requirements |
|
Bachelor of Agriculture |
~70–80% |
Moderately competitive; requires science background and English proficiency |
|
Master of Agricultural Sciences |
~60–70% |
Competitive, but achievable with relevant degree and strong academics |
|
PhD / MPhil (Agricultural Sciences) |
~50–60% |
Based on research proposal, supervisor availability, and academic record |
Name: University of Melbourne – Dookie Campus
Address: 940 Dookie–Nalinga Road, Dookie, Victoria 3646, Australia
Located in the rural town of Dookie, in northeast Victoria
About:
30 km east of Shepparton
220 km (≈ 2.5 to 3 hours) by car from Melbourne CBD
Set in a large agricultural and natural landscape—perfect for hands-on learning in agriculture, animal science, environmental science, and sustainability
By Car: Most convenient; parking is available on campus
By Public Transport:
Train from Melbourne to Shepparton (V/Line service)
Taxi or local bus from Shepparton to Dookie
Nearby Regional Cities: Shepparton, Benalla, Wangaratta
Rural and peaceful setting with views of vineyards, farmland, and rolling hills
Includes a 2,400-hectare working farm, accommodation, labs, teaching spaces, and sustainability-focused infrastructure
