Don't assume that agribusiness programs are only of use to people who want
to raise livestock or grow wheat. Agriculture is a diverse field, even
covering such areas as food processing and retail.
People who already work in agriculture but want to develop business skills
can take certificates and diploma programs through community colleges.
Those who want to pursue management careers can opt for bachelor's and
master's degrees.
Agriculture departments at universities typically offer these degrees.
They may also be available jointly through business schools.
A degree in agricultural economics may also lead to a career in agribusiness.
Brian Crouse is assistant dean of student services at an agricultural college.
His college offers a number of different agribusiness programs. One is a two-year
diploma program in agricultural business. Many graduates of the program
find jobs as farm managers or with farm machinery dealerships.
Students in agribusiness may study new agricultural methods, agricultural
policy, biotechnology, transportation and environmental issues.
Michael Whalen works with an agricultural college. He says that entrance
requirements at his college include Grade 12 physics, chemistry and biology,
as well as math and English.
"We seek well-rounded students with an interest in a variety of
academic and other pursuits," he says.
Membership in 4-H, Junior Achievement, business groups or environmental
groups will help you develop that well-rounded background.
In agribusiness post-secondary programs, students also get a chance to
develop professional contacts.
Agribusiness students at Purdue University, for instance, complete paid
internships, says LeeAnn Williams. She is an advisor in the department
of agricultural economics.
"These internships range from agricultural input sales to retail management
to elevator management to grain merchandising to food manufacturing marketing
to ... lending. There are even international internships available,"
she says.
Besides tuition, textbooks are the major cost in an agricultural
business program.
Links
Occupational Outlook Handbook
For more information related to this field of study, see: Agricultural
Workers
Agricultural & Applied Economics Association
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