Agriculture is a vital sector that plays a crucial role in feeding the world's growing population, supporting rural economies, and managing natural resources. As the global population is projected to reach 9.7 billion by 2050, the demand for food, fiber, and fuel is expected to increase by 50% or more, putting immense pressure on agricultural systems and the environment (FAO, 2017).
To meet this challenge, we need a new generation of agricultural professionals who are equipped with the knowledge, skills, and values to navigate the complex and dynamic landscape of agriculture in the 21st century.
Agricultural degree programs are designed to prepare students for careers in various aspects of agriculture, such as crop and animal production, agribusiness, food science, environmental conservation, and rural development. These programs offer a wide range of courses and experiences that enable students to develop technical expertise, critical thinking, problem-solving, communication, and leadership skills.
Agricultural degree programs also provide opportunities for hands-on learning, research, internships, and community engagement, which help students to apply their knowledge to real-world situations and to make a positive impact on society.
The demand for agricultural graduates is strong and growing, as the agriculture sector faces numerous challenges and opportunities, such as climate change, resource scarcity, technological innovation, and changing consumer preferences.
According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), there are nearly 60,000 high-skilled job openings in agriculture and related fields each year, but only 35,000 graduates with bachelor's degrees or higher to fill them (USDA, 2020). This talent gap is even more pronounced in developing countries, where the majority of the world's farmers and agricultural workers live and work.
Types and Levels of Agricultural Degree Programs
Agricultural degree programs are offered at various levels and types of institutions, from community colleges and technical schools to universities and graduate schools. The most common types and levels of agricultural degree programs are:
Associate's Degrees
Associate's degrees in agriculture are two-year programs that provide students with a basic foundation in agricultural sciences, technologies, and practices. These programs are typically offered by community colleges and technical schools and are designed to prepare students for entry-level positions in agriculture or transfer to four-year degree programs. Associate's degrees in agriculture may focus on specific areas, such as agricultural business, animal science, horticulture, or precision agriculture, or they may provide a general education in agriculture.
According to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), there were over 1,200 associate's degrees in agriculture and related fields awarded in the United States in 2018-2019, representing about 0.2% of all associate's degrees (NCES, 2021). The top five states for associate's degrees in agriculture were California, Texas, Iowa, Illinois, and Kansas, which together accounted for nearly 40% of the total degrees awarded (NCES, 2021).
Bachelor's Degrees
Bachelor's degrees in agriculture are four-year programs that provide students with a comprehensive education in agricultural sciences, technologies, and practices, as well as in related fields such as business, economics, policy, and communication. These programs are typically offered by universities and colleges and are designed to prepare students for professional careers in agriculture or graduate study.
Bachelor's degrees in agriculture may offer specializations or concentrations in various areas, such as agronomy, animal science, food science, agricultural education, or environmental science, or they may provide a broad-based education in agriculture.
According to the NCES, there were over 36,000 bachelor's degrees in agriculture and related fields awarded in the United States in 2018-2019, representing about 1.7% of all bachelor's degrees (NCES, 2021). The top five states for bachelor's degrees in agriculture were California, Texas, Iowa, Pennsylvania, and Missouri, which together accounted for nearly 30% of the total degrees awarded (NCES, 2021).
The most popular fields of study for bachelor's degrees in agriculture were animal science, agricultural business and management, agricultural mechanization, food science and technology, and plant science and agronomy (NCES, 2021).
Master's Degrees
Master's degrees in agriculture are advanced degree programs that provide students with specialized knowledge and skills in a particular area of agriculture, such as plant breeding, animal nutrition, agricultural economics, or sustainable agriculture.
These programs are typically offered by universities and graduate schools and are designed to prepare students for leadership roles in agriculture or doctoral study. Master's degrees in agriculture may be research-based, requiring a thesis or project, or they may be professional-based, focusing on practical applications and case studies.
According to the NCES, there were over 6,000 master's degrees in agriculture and related fields awarded in the United States in 2018-2019, representing about 1.2% of all master's degrees (NCES, 2021). The top five states for master's degrees in agriculture were California, Texas, Iowa, Kansas, and Illinois, which together accounted for nearly 40% of the total degrees awarded (NCES, 2021).
The most popular fields of study for master's degrees in agriculture were animal science, agricultural economics, food science and technology, plant science and agronomy, and agricultural education and communication (NCES, 2021).
Doctoral Degrees
Doctoral degrees in agriculture are the highest level of academic degrees that provide students with advanced research and scholarship skills in a specific area of agriculture, such as plant pathology, animal genetics, agricultural engineering, or food safety.
These programs are typically offered by universities and graduate schools and are designed to prepare students for careers in research, teaching, or leadership in academia, government, or industry. Doctoral degrees in agriculture require a dissertation or thesis that makes an original contribution to the field of study.
According to the NCES, there were over 1,800 doctoral degrees in agriculture and related fields awarded in the United States in 2018-2019, representing about 2.5% of all doctoral degrees (NCES, 2021). The top five states for doctoral degrees in agriculture were California, Texas, Iowa, Florida, and Wisconsin, which together accounted for nearly 40% of the total degrees awarded (NCES, 2021).
The most popular fields of study for doctoral degrees in agriculture were animal science, plant science and agronomy, agricultural economics, food science and technology, and soil science (NCES, 2021).
Curriculum and Learning Outcomes of Agricultural Degree Programs
Agricultural degree programs offer a diverse and interdisciplinary curriculum that spans the natural and social sciences, as well as the applied and technical aspects of agriculture. While the specific courses and requirements vary by program and level, most agricultural degree programs share some common learning outcomes and competencies that prepare students for successful careers in agriculture. These include:
Scientific and Technical Knowledge
Agricultural degree programs provide students with a strong foundation in the scientific and technical principles that underlie agricultural systems, such as plant and animal biology, soil science, genetics, nutrition, physiology, and ecology.
Students learn about the latest research and technologies in agriculture, such as precision agriculture, biotechnology, data analytics, and robotics, and how to apply them to solve real-world problems. Through laboratory and field experiences, students gain hands-on skills in areas such as crop and animal production, food processing, environmental monitoring, and agricultural engineering.
For example, the Department of Animal Science at Iowa State University offers a bachelor's degree program that includes courses in animal anatomy and physiology, genetics, nutrition, reproduction, and meat science, as well as hands-on experiences in animal handling, feeding, and health management (Iowa State University, 2021).
The program also provides opportunities for research, internships, and study abroad, which help students to develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and global perspectives.
Business and Economic Skills
Agricultural degree programs also equip students with the business and economic skills needed to manage agricultural enterprises and to navigate the complex and dynamic global agricultural markets.
Students learn about the principles of economics, finance, marketing, management, and policy that shape the agricultural sector, and how to apply them to make informed decisions and to create value for stakeholders. Through case studies, simulations, and projects, students gain experience in areas such as business planning, risk management, supply chain management, and entrepreneurship.
For instance, the Department of Agricultural Economics at Purdue University offers a bachelor's degree program that includes courses in microeconomics, macroeconomics, agricultural marketing, farm management, and agricultural policy, as well as experiential learning opportunities such as commodity trading, market research, and consulting (Purdue University, 2021).
The program also provides a strong quantitative and analytical foundation, with courses in statistics, econometrics, and data analysis, which prepare students for careers in agribusiness, finance, and government.
Communication and Leadership Skills
Agricultural degree programs also foster the communication and leadership skills that are essential for success in the diverse and interconnected agricultural sector. Students learn how to effectively communicate with various audiences, such as farmers, consumers, policymakers, and the media, using a range of formats and channels, such as written, oral, visual, and digital media.
Through group projects, presentations, and service learning, students also develop leadership, teamwork, and project management skills that are valued by employers and communities.
For example, the Department of Agricultural Leadership, Education, and Communications at the University of Georgia offers a bachelor's degree program that includes courses in public speaking, media writing, graphic design, leadership, and organizational development, as well as opportunities for community engagement, research, and internships (University of Georgia, 2021).
The program also provides a minor in agricultural communication, which prepares students to effectively communicate about agriculture and to promote agricultural literacy among the public.
Interdisciplinary and Systems Thinking
Agricultural degree programs also cultivate an interdisciplinary and systems perspective that enables students to understand and address the complex and interconnected challenges facing agriculture and food systems, such as climate change, food security, water scarcity, and rural development.
Students learn about the social, economic, environmental, and political dimensions of agriculture, and how they interact and influence each other at various scales, from local to global. Through interdisciplinary courses, capstone projects, and research experiences, students develop the ability to integrate knowledge from multiple disciplines and to think critically and creatively about agricultural issues.
For instance, the College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences at the University of California, Davis offers a bachelor's degree program in Sustainable Agriculture and Food Systems that includes courses in agroecology, food justice, agricultural policy, and community development, as well as hands-on experiences in organic farming, food processing, and community engagement (University of California, Davis, 2021).
The program also provides opportunities for students to conduct research, intern with community partners, and study abroad, which helps them to develop a global and interdisciplinary perspective on agriculture and food systems.
Benefits and Impacts of Agricultural Degree Programs
Agricultural degree programs provide numerous benefits and impacts for students, employers, communities, and society as a whole. Some of the key benefits and impacts include:
Career Opportunities and Employability
Agricultural degree programs prepare students for a wide range of career opportunities in the agricultural sector, which is one of the largest and most diverse sectors of the economy. According to the USDA, the agricultural sector employs over 22 million people in the United States, or about 11% of the total workforce, and generates over $1 trillion in economic activity each year (USDA, 2021). Agricultural careers span various fields, such as production agriculture, agribusiness, food science, environmental conservation, education, and policy, and require a diverse set of skills and knowledge.
Agricultural degree programs also enhance the employability and earning potential of graduates, as the demand for skilled agricultural professionals continues to grow. According to a survey by the USDA and Purdue University, 97% of recent agricultural graduates found employment or were continuing their education within six months of graduation, and the average starting salary for agricultural graduates was $48,000 per year, which is higher than the national average for all college graduates (Purdue University, 2021).
Moreover, many agricultural careers offer opportunities for advancement, leadership, and entrepreneurship, as well as for making a positive impact on society and the environment.
Innovation and Entrepreneurship
Agricultural degree programs also foster innovation and entrepreneurship in the agricultural sector, by providing students with the knowledge, skills, and networks to develop and commercialize new products, services, and technologies that address the challenges and opportunities facing agriculture.
Through courses, projects, and competitions, students learn about the principles and practices of innovation and entrepreneurship, such as ideation, prototyping, market research, and business planning, and how to apply them to create value for customers and stakeholders.
For example, the Agricultural Entrepreneurship Initiative at Iowa State University provides a range of programs and resources for students to explore and pursue entrepreneurial opportunities in agriculture, such as an entrepreneurship minor, a business incubator, a mentorship program, and a pitch competition (Iowa State University, 2021).
The initiative also partners with industry and community organizations to provide students with real-world experiences and networks and to support the development and growth of agricultural startups and small businesses.
Community and Rural Development
Agricultural degree programs also contribute to community and rural development, by preparing students to work with and serve rural communities and agricultural regions. Through service learning, community engagement, and extension programs, students learn about the unique challenges and opportunities facing rural communities, such as economic development, social equity, and natural resource management, and how to collaborate with diverse stakeholders to address them.
For instance, the Department of Community and Leadership Development at the University of Kentucky offers a bachelor's degree program that includes courses in community development, leadership, nonprofit management, and rural sociology, as well as opportunities for community-based research and service learning (University of Kentucky, 2021).
The program also provides a minor in agricultural community communications, which prepares students to effectively communicate and engage with agricultural communities and stakeholders.
Global and Intercultural Competence
Agricultural degree programs also develop global and intercultural competence among students, by providing opportunities for international study, research, and service. Through study abroad, international internships, and global learning courses, students gain exposure to diverse agricultural systems, cultures, and perspectives, and develop the knowledge, skills, and attitudes needed to work effectively in a globalized and interconnected world.
For example, the College of Agricultural Sciences at Oregon State University offers a wide range of international programs for students, such as study abroad courses, international internships, and research exchanges, in countries such as Costa Rica, New Zealand, and India (Oregon State University, 2021).
The college also provides a Global Agriculture option for undergraduate students, which includes language study, cultural competency training, and a capstone project that addresses a global agricultural issue.
Environmental Stewardship and Sustainability
Agricultural degree programs also promote environmental stewardship and sustainability, by preparing students to manage agricultural systems in ways that conserve natural resources, protect ecosystem services, and mitigate climate change.
Through courses, research, and experiential learning, students learn about the principles and practices of sustainable agriculture, such as agroecology, conservation agriculture, precision agriculture, and regenerative agriculture, and how to apply them to create more resilient and productive agricultural systems.
For instance, the Department of Crop and Soil Sciences at Washington State University offers a bachelor's degree program in Organic and Sustainable Agriculture that includes courses in organic crop production, soil ecology, agroforestry, and food systems, as well as hands-on experiences in organic farming, composting, and market gardening (Washington State University, 2021). The program also provides opportunities for students to conduct research, intern with organic farms and businesses, and engage with community partners, such as food banks and schools.
Challenges and Opportunities for Agricultural Degree Programs
Despite the many benefits and impacts of agricultural degree programs, they also face several challenges and opportunities in the 21st century. Some of the key challenges and opportunities include:
Enrollment and Diversity
One of the major challenges facing agricultural degree programs is the declining enrollment and lack of diversity among students. According to the USDA, enrollment in agricultural degree programs has declined by about 30% since the 1980s, and the majority of agricultural students are white, male, and from rural backgrounds (USDA, 2020). This lack of diversity can limit the pool of talent and perspectives in the agricultural workforce, and hinder the ability of the sector to innovate and adapt to changing needs and demands.
To address this challenge, many agricultural degree programs are developing targeted recruitment and retention strategies, such as scholarships, mentorship programs, and outreach events, to attract and support underrepresented students, such as women, minorities, and urban students. For example, the Minorities in Agriculture, Natural Resources, and Related Sciences (MANRRS) organization provides a national network and resources for minority students in agricultural degree programs, including leadership development, career preparation, and community service opportunities (MANRRS, 2021).
Curriculum and Pedagogy
Another challenge and opportunity for agricultural degree programs is the need to continuously update and improve the curriculum and pedagogy to keep pace with the rapidly changing knowledge, skills, and technologies in the agricultural sector. As the agricultural sector becomes more data-driven, automated, and globalized, agricultural degree programs need to provide students with the latest tools and techniques for collecting, analyzing, and applying data, as well as the critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills needed to work in diverse and complex environments.
To address this challenge, many agricultural degree programs are incorporating more interdisciplinary, experiential, and technology-based learning approaches into their curriculum, such as problem-based learning, case studies, simulations, and online courses. For instance, the Agricultural Systems Technology program at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln provides students with hands-on experiences in precision agriculture, robotics, and data analytics, using state-of-the-art equipment and software, such as drones, sensors, and geographic information systems (University of Nebraska-Lincoln, 2021).
Workforce Development and Lifelong Learning
A third challenge and opportunity for agricultural degree programs is the need to support workforce development and lifelong learning for agricultural professionals. As the agricultural sector becomes more complex and dynamic, agricultural professionals need to continuously update and expand their knowledge and skills throughout their careers, to stay competitive and adaptive to changing needs and opportunities. However, many agricultural professionals, especially in rural and underserved areas, may lack access to formal education and training programs or may face barriers to participation, such as time, cost, and distance.
To address this challenge, many agricultural degree programs are developing flexible and accessible learning opportunities for agricultural professionals, such as online and distance education, short courses, certificates, and workshops. For example, the Cooperative Extension System, a nationwide network of land-grant universities and local offices, provides a wide range of non-formal education and outreach programs for agricultural professionals and communities, covering topics such as crop and livestock production, farm management, food safety, and youth development (USDA, 2021).
The extension system also partners with industry, government, and nonprofit organizations to provide research-based information and resources to support agricultural innovation and sustainability.
Conclusion
Agricultural degree programs play a critical role in preparing the next generation of agricultural professionals to meet the challenges and opportunities of feeding a growing population, supporting rural economies, and managing natural resources in the 21st century. These programs provide students with the scientific, technical, business, communication, and leadership skills needed to succeed in the diverse and dynamic agricultural sector, and to make a positive impact on society and the environment.
Through a comprehensive and interdisciplinary curriculum, experiential learning opportunities, and community engagement, agricultural degree programs enable students to develop a systems perspective on agriculture and to apply their knowledge and skills to real-world problems and contexts. Agricultural degree programs also provide numerous benefits and impacts for students, employers, communities, and society, including career opportunities and employability, innovation and entrepreneurship, community and rural development, global and intercultural competence, and environmental stewardship and sustainability.
However, agricultural degree programs also face several challenges and opportunities in the 21st century, including declining enrollment and diversity, the need to update and improve curriculum and pedagogy, and the demand for workforce development and lifelong learning. To address these challenges and opportunities, agricultural degree programs need to develop targeted recruitment and retention strategies, incorporate more interdisciplinary and experiential learning approaches, and provide flexible and accessible learning opportunities for agricultural professionals.
Moreover, agricultural degree programs need to continue to evolve and adapt to the changing needs and expectations of students, employers, and society, and to contribute to the development of a more sustainable, equitable, and resilient agricultural system. This requires strong partnerships and collaboration among universities, industry, government, and communities, as well as increased investment and support for agricultural education and research.
In conclusion, agricultural degree programs are essential for creating a skilled, diverse, and innovative agricultural workforce that can meet the challenges and opportunities of the 21st century. By providing high-quality education, research, and outreach, these programs can help to ensure a secure and sustainable food supply, support rural economies and communities, and protect natural resources for future generations. As such, agricultural degree programs deserve the attention, recognition, and support of all stakeholders who are committed to the future of agriculture and the well-being of people and the planet.