Key facts
UNE unit code: GRNS500
*You are viewing the 2026 version of this unit which may be subject to change in future.
- Trimester 2 - On Campus
- Trimester 2 - Online
- Armidale Campus
- Yes
- No
- Yes
- 6
Unit information
In an era of complex industrial systems and increasing environmental pressure, the future success of Australia’s grain industry relies on the knowledge of professionals who are equipped with skills in the principles of sustainable production.
Studying this unit, you will gain a comprehensive overview of the major agronomic aspects necessary for sustainable pulse grain crop production in Australia’s unique environment.
You will explore core technical and theoretical features of the industry, developing an understanding of crop morphology and physiology, plant nutrition and soil characterisation.
The unit also provides you with insights into health and management and water management, extending your ability to formulate strategies for pulse crop protection and fertilisation.
Offerings
For further information about UNE's teaching periods, please go to Principal Dates.
| Teaching period | Mode/location |
|---|---|
| Trimester 2 | On Campus, Armidale Campus |
| Trimester 2 | Online |
*Offering is subject to availability
Intensive schools
There are no intensive schools required for this unit.
Enrolment rules
Notes
Please refer to the student handbook for current details on this unit.
Unit coordinator(s)
Learning outcomes
Upon completion of this unit, students will be able to:
- demonstrate advanced comprehensive and coherent technical and theoretical knowledge of the Australian pulse grains industry including the constraints within which it operates including market access and availability;
- apply the principles of plant nutrition and be able to design appropriate fertiliser strategies for pulse crops and understand and calculate the contribution of pulse crops to N cycling in farming systems including comparison of N fixation efficiencies between a range of pulse crop species;
- knowledgeably discuss crop development, physiology and the interactions with paddock selection, and agronomic principles and critically interact with peer-reviewed scientific literature on pulse agronomy within a range of farming systems; and
- demonstrate a clear understanding of crop protection principles and formulate management strategies for pulse crop protection under constraints imposed by both conventional and organic agricultural systems.
Assessment information
Assessments are subject to change up to 8 weeks prior to the start of the teaching period in which you are undertaking the unit.
| Title | Must Complete | Weight | Offerings | Assessment Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mid-trimester Examination - Assurance Task | Yes | 30% | All offerings | Written online examination. No. Words: 2000 There is a supervised exam during the teaching period in which you are enrolled. The exam will be online with supervision via webcam and screen sharing technology. Coordinated by UNE Exams Unit. To pass this unit, you must achieve a minimum cumulative total of 50% across Mid-Trimester Examination – Assurance Task and the Oral Examination – Assurance Task, and meet all other passing requirements in the unit. |
| Nutrition Assignment | Yes | 30% | All offerings | Written report based on nutrition data. No. Words: 2000 |
| Oral Examination - Assurance Task | Yes | 40% | All offerings | Oral examination on pre-prepared field based problem Oral assessments will be done in real time either face to face (on campus) or via zoom/teams (off campus). To pass this unit, you must achieve a minimum cumulative total of 50% across Mid-Trimester Examination – Assurance Task and the Oral Examination – Assurance Task and meet all other passing requirements in the unit. |
Learning resources
Textbooks are subject to change up to 8 weeks prior to the start of the teaching period in which you are undertaking the unit.
Textbook information will be displayed approximately 8 weeks prior to the commencement of the teaching period. Please note that textbook requirements may vary from one teaching period to the next.
Excellence in experience, equity and employability
Five Stars,
20 Years in a Row
UNE is the only public uni in Australia awarded 20 straight years of five stars for Overall Experience.
Good Universities Guide 2007-2026
Five Stars for
Social Equity
UNE rates among the top 20% of universities nationally and is #1 in NSW for Social Equity.
Good Universities Guide 2026
Five Stars for
Graduate Employment
UNE rates among the top 20% of universities for Graduate Full-Time Employment and Starting Salary.
Good Universities Guide 2026 (Undergraduate)
Diamond-Rated Digital Learning
UNE’s leadership in digital learning earned the highest ‘Diamond’ rating in a peer review.
ASCILITE TELAS 2025
Studying online
At UNE we know it takes more than just being online to be a great online university. It takes time and experience. We pioneered distance education for working adults back in the 1950s, so we’ve been doing this longer than any other Australian university.
We understand the challenges faced by busy adults studying at home. We know that a vital part of online study is your engagement with the learning community. Communication with your classmates, teaching staff and university support staff will enhance your study experience and ensure that your skills extend beyond the subject matter. UNE’s teaching staff are experts in their field which is why UNE consistently receives five stars from students for teaching quality, support and overall experience.*
*The Good Universities Guide
Stay connected
Join our mailing list for updates and helpful tips to support your study plans. You can unsubscribe at any time.
- •Course updates and important changes as they happen
- •Key dates for intakes, deadlines, and enrolment steps
- •Application guidance, including supporting documentation requirements
- •Next steps and what to expect after you apply or enquire
Ready to stay in the loop?
GET IN TOUCH
Why study with us?
UNE’s flexibility and support made the transition smooth and helped me find a great balance between academic responsibilities and personal growth. It was the perfect place to study education while staying true to my rural roots.
What happens next?
Got a question about a course you'd like to study? Contact our Future Student Team for help.
2026 applications are now open. The application process only takes 20 minutes to complete. Don’t delay, apply now!
Your start date is based on the study period you choose to apply for.
