In a globally connected world where trade is ever-increasing, and people are moving around the globe at unprecedented rates, the risk of spreading exotic organisms is higher than ever. Biosecurity is fundamental to managing the threat posed by pests and diseases, and is of vital importance to world trade, environmental protection, and agriculture.

Learn how biosecurity measures such as risk analysis, quarantine and surveillance are used to stop the entry and spread of exotic organisms around the world. You’ll gain an in depth knowledge of rapid emergency response to an exotic incursion, and how to manage pests and diseases if they become permanently established in a new region and start impacting trade.

Biosecurity is a growing field of activity for many professionals involved in agriculture, the environment and international and domestic trade, to maintain agricultural and environmental integrity. It is also becoming increasingly important for private industry and the general public, as biosecurity protects us and our economy from harmful organisms.

3 reasons to study a Master of Biosecurity at Murdoch

• Study on your own terms – with the option to study full-time or part-time, you can upskill whilst you’re still earning.
• Take advantage of scholarships such as the Murdoch University Academic Excellence Awards and Scholarships for Scientific Excellence.
• This course was developed in consultation with representatives from Canada, United States, New Zealand and Australia, so the content covers international biosecurity requirements.

Develop your skills

Build essential skills and knowledge to meet your career or study goals. Topics you’ll cover include:

• the importance of surveillance for detecting pests and diseases
• how to effectively engage the community when there is an outbreak
• roles and responsibilities of governments and industry for maintaining biosecurity
• new and emerging technologies for pest detection and management.

After completing this degree, you will be able to pursue careers in biosecurity, quarantine and pest management, acting in technical, research and administrative roles within organisations such as the State Departments of Agriculture, State and Federal Biosecurity Agencies, Plant Health Australia, Animal Health Australia and private industry, or their international counterparts.

Careers could include:

• Biosecurity Manager
• Policy Officer
• Risk Analyst.

Professional recognition

Graduates of this degree will be eligible to apply for membership to societies such as the Australian Entomological Society, the Australasian Plant Pathology Society, the Ecological Society of Australia, the Australian Institute of Agricultural Science and Technology, the Australian Society of Horticultural Sciences and the Society for Risk Analysis.