B.S. in Agronomy

The Department of Agronomy offers a degree of Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree in agronomy. Graduates have the theoretical and practical knowledge needed for efficient and sustainable production of food, feed, fuel, and fiber. Graduates are skilled in critical thinking, problem solving, and communicating and working effectively with others. They understand the ethical, cultural, and environmental dimensions of issues facing professionals in agriculture and natural resources. Agronomy major prepares students for employment in agricultural business and industry, agricultural service organizations, crop production and soil management, environmental and natural resource management, and farm management. Graduates pursue careers in the seed, fertilizer, and agricultural chemical industries as field agronomists, crop and soil management specialists, research technicians, sales and marketing specialists, and production managers. State and federal agencies employ agronomists as extension specialists, county extension directors, environmental and natural resource specialists, research associates, soil surveyors, soil conservationists, regulatory agencies as plant, food, and grain inspectors, science-based professional positions, graduate study, or research careers. Additional areas of work open to agronomists include integrated pest management, land appraisal, agricultural finance, turfgrass management, and the home lawn care industry. The department offers an international scholar program leading to a credentialed title of "Agronomy International Scholar" for agronomy majors who have distinguished themselves in global understanding and international experience. Agroecology The Agroecology option provides the scientific foundation for understanding and managing agricultural systems with ecological and environmental perspectives. Students may pursue graduate study or careers in sustainable agriculture.