In today’s job market, careers in agriculture represent one of the largest industries and a substantial source of long-term employment opportunities, and obtaining an online agriculture degree can position you as a leader in this vital sector.
Yes, you can pursue this degree online, at your own pace, making it convenient to fit into your schedule.
This comprehensive guide will connect you with top online agriculture programs and provide essential information about schools, costs, and certifications to help you make an informed decision about your education and career.
What is Agriculture?
Agriculture is often mistakenly viewed as merely farming, but it encompasses a vast array of disciplines, including:
- Agronomy
- Soil Science and Agricultural Chemistry
- Horticulture
- Plant Breeding and Genetics
- Plant Pathology
- Entomology
- Agricultural Economics
- Extension Education
As a major source of income for individuals, governments, and organizations, agriculture includes diverse practices such as fishing and livestock management. To engage with agriculture at an advanced level, pursuing a formal education in agriculture is essential.
After an Online Agriculture Degree, What Next?
Agriculturists have a range of career options. Those specializing in farming may work outdoors on fields, pastures, or in botanical gardens. Others may focus on livestock, working in zoos or research labs. Common employment sectors include:
- Agricultural businesses
- Government agencies
- Educational institutions
- Farming associations
- Research organizations
An online agriculture degree can open doors to various careers, such as agricultural business, production management, and resource management.
Why Get an Online Agriculture Degree?
The agriculture and forestry sectors are foundational to global functioning. Today, agricultural science is a dynamic and technology-driven field, making it an appealing career choice. Areas of study may include:
- Veterinary medicine
- Food production
- Environmental management
- Horticulture
With a degree in agriculture, you can pursue rewarding positions such as farm manager or agricultural consultant, engaging in activities that enhance food production and environmental sustainability.
Why Online Education?
Online education allows you to study from anywhere, using a Learning Management System (LMS) for coursework and communication. Key benefits include:
- Flexibility to learn at your own pace
- Access to diverse resources and materials
- Interaction with instructors and peers through digital platforms
Tuition fees for online programs vary, but many institutions offer competitive rates.
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How Can I Get an Online Agriculture Degree?
To begin your journey in agriculture, you typically need to earn a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution such as Cornell University. Key subjects to focus on include:
- Soil and plant science
- Chemistry
- Agricultural mechanics
- Animal husbandry
A strong foundation in natural sciences will also prepare you for professional certification in specialized fields.
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Skills Needed for Success in Agricultural Science
Success in agricultural science requires a mix of technical and soft skills, including:
- Strong communication and leadership abilities
- Problem-solving and analytical skills
- Business acumen
- Proficiency in computer and information technology
- Research planning and execution skills
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Best Schools for an Online Agriculture Degree
Here’s a list of some of the top institutions offering online agriculture programs:
1. Oklahoma State University
- Tuition: $223.30 per credit hour (in-state), $849.20 (out-of-state)
- Programs: Master’s in Agricultural Education, Master of Agriculture in Leadership
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
2. Southern Arkansas University
- Tuition: $5,714
- Programs: Online Master’s in Agricultural Leadership and Extension Education
- Accreditation: HLC
3. Texas A&M University
- Tuition: $11,232 (in-state), $37,726 (out-of-state)
- Programs: Multiple online degrees including Agriculture eLearning Development
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
4. University of Georgia
- Tuition: $20,757 (annual)
- Programs: Online Master’s in Agricultural and Environmental Systems
- Accreditation: SACSCOC
5. University of Florida
- Tuition: $3,876 (in-state), $16,580 (out-of-state)
- Programs: Bachelor of Science in Agriculture and Natural Resources
- Accreditation: SACSCOC
6. North Carolina A&T State University
- Tuition: $6,612 (in-state)
- Programs: B.S. in Agricultural Education
- Accreditation: SACSCOC
7. Concordia University Wisconsin & Ann Arbor
- Programs: Master’s in Food and Beverage Product Development
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
8. Johns Hopkins University
- Programs: Master’s in Food Safety Regulation and related fields
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
9. Purdue University
- Tuition: $28,794
- Programs: Online Master’s and Doctoral degrees in Agriculture
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
10. University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
- Programs: Online Bachelor’s and Master’s in Agriculture
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Famous People Who Got an Online Agriculture Degree
Notable figures in agriculture include:
- George Washington Carver: Pioneer in agricultural science, known for soil health techniques.
- Norman Borlaug: Nobel laureate who developed high-yield crops to combat world hunger.
How Do You Earn With an Online Agriculture Degree?
According to data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, early-career agriculturists earn approximately $40,791, with mid-career earnings rising to around $76,822. The median annual wage for agricultural and food scientists is about $64,020.
Career Prospects With an Online Agriculture Degree
The agriculture sector employs 15% to 20% of the global workforce. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 7% growth rate for agricultural and food scientists from 2018 to 2028, reflecting ongoing research into agricultural methods and technologies.
Conclusion
Pursuing a degree in agricultural science offers diverse career paths and opportunities for growth. The institutions listed above provide quality education and training, preparing students for various roles in the agriculture industry.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What are the major branches of agriculture?
- Farming, horticulture, fisheries, apiculture, forestry, and ranching.
- What are the highest-paying agriculture jobs?
- Veterinarian, agricultural engineer, food scientist, animal geneticist.
- How can I earn a degree in agriculture?
- Enroll in an accredited institution like Purdue University or Oklahoma State University.
- What are the best schools for agriculture?
- Oklahoma State University, Southern Arkansas University, Texas A&M University, and more.
