The Examination provides AARN members with a significant opportunity for professional development and recognition of expertise among their peers. It should also open up further opportunities for leadership roles within the ruminant nutrition sector. We therefore urge members to take the challenge and put themselves forward.
In addition to these personal benefits, the AARN Members Examination process will, over time, open up new opportunities for collaboration between ruminant nutritionists and other professionals working in the ruminant animal industries.
The award of Full Member by Examination of the Australian Association of Ruminant Nutrition is granted upon a Member who is eligible to sit and successfully pass a written and oral examination in ruminant nutrition.
Membership of the AARN is an official recognition of a Member’s knowledge and experience in ruminant nutrition. Membership is an indication to the ruminant industry of an advanced advisor, competence, and experience in the field. It provides employers and clients with confidence that the Member has a thorough understanding of the scientific and practical applications of ruminant nutrition.
Why the Program is Important
The AARN Members Examination serves AARN’s three objectives:
- Provide recognition of existing nutritional expertise and promote further professional development.
- Provide a forum for co-ordinated communication, discussion and interaction on issues related to the development of the ruminant livestock industries.
- Provide confidence that the nutritional information received by the Australian ruminant industries is credible.
What it means to be an AARN Member by Examination (AARNe)
It signifies that the candidate has demonstrated a high level of competency in the field of ruminant nutrition and feeding, as would be expected of a person providing professional advice to nutritionist colleagues not similarly qualified in the principles and practice of ruminant nutrition and feeding in the Australian ruminant industries context.
Eligibility to sit the AARN Members Examination
To sit the AARN Members Examination, a person must be a current, financial, full AARN or NZARN member. This requires EITHER a tertiary qualification, e.g. BAgric, BAppSc, BSc, BVSc and at least two years full-time industry experience between graduation and taking the examination OR, if no tertiary qualification, at least five years full-time industry experience.
Testimonials
Participating in the Australian Association of Ruminant Nutrition’s Further Learning Program has been a fundamental step in advancing my career as a Ruminant Nutritionist. The program offers an opportunity to advance applicants depth and breadth of knowledge, collaborating with other candidates with experience in a variety of ruminant nutrition and production systems from locations across Australia and New Zealand. I am extremely grateful to work in a sector where industry leading experts are willing to support the ongoing development of emerging Nutritionists. Completing the program was incredibly fulfilling, and the additional technical and practical knowledge I have gained is invaluable. I highly recommend the program to anyone committed to advancing their skills, making meaningful connections with industry peers, and developing recognition of your expertise as a Ruminant Nutritionist.
∼ Emma Mills, Ruminant Nutritionist, Ridley ∼ Further Learning Graduate 2024
Undertaking and completing the Australian Association of Ruminant Nutrition Further Learning Program was a pivotal moment in both my professional career and personal growth. The program provides the framework to refine and expand existing knowledge while also facilitating engagement with fellow participants and industry experts. This collaboration allowed me to gain valuable insights that have enhanced my understanding of nutritional strategies and industry challenges. I highly recommend this program to any individual that is interested in advancing their skills, fostering professional connections and solidifying their knowledge in the field of ruminant nutrition
∼ Micheal Salvi, Technical Services Manager, Lallemand ∼
Further Learning Graduate 2023
Handbook for AARN Members Examination Candidates
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Apply Now for 2026
Applications close December 31st, 2025
If you are not yet a Full Member, please apply for Membership first.