The piece, named Aries, was crafted by 17-year-old Hereford College of Arts student Harlan Beales.
Mr Beales, who is studying for an extended diploma in Art, Design, and Creative Practice, designed the sculpture from recycled farm machinery steel rods.
He collaborated with former RAU student and current farmer, Will Carr, to bring the design to life.
Mr Beales said: “Will and I worked together on the design – he was able to make 3D projections and I made two paper models to get the scale right.
“It has been amazing for me to have been involved with this.
“I’ve made smaller pieces before but this is the first large scale sculpture I’ve made. I’m excited that it will be at the RAU forever.”
Aries was unveiled by RAU Vice-Chancellor Professor Peter McCaffery at a special lunch marking the university’s 180th anniversary.
Mr Carr, who runs a successful sculpture business alongside farming, said: “It was great to be able to work alongside Harlan – we worked really well as a team.”
Professor McCaffery said: “As we celebrate our 180th anniversary we are immensely proud of the contribution our 17,000+ alumni have made as leaders, entrepreneurs and innovators to agriculture and the land-based sector.
“The Aries sculpture is a fitting tribute to the creativity, ingenuity, and commitment to sustainability that characterises our students today.”
The university was established in 1845 and gained its university status in 2013.