So, what even is an agriculture major?
Think of an agriculture major as the study of how we grow food, manage natural resources, and keep ecosystems thriving. It’s a mix of science, business, and environmental studies. You’ll learn how agriculture impacts everything—from the economy to climate change—and how to make it more sustainable. Whether you’re into hands-on farming, tech-driven innovation, or policy and education, this major opens up a lot of doors.
Specializations that let you dig deeper
Agriculture is a broad field, and you can tailor your degree to match your interests. Some popular specializations include:
- Agribusiness: Focuses on the business side of farming and food production.
- Animal science: Studies livestock, animal health, and nutrition.
- Crop and soil science: Dives into plant biology, soil chemistry, and sustainable farming.
- Environmental agriculture: Combines agriculture with environmental science and sustainability.
- Food science: Explores food safety, processing, and innovation.
What classes will I take as an agriculture major?
Agriculture majors take a mix of science, economics, and hands-on courses. Expect classes like:
- Intro to agricultural systems
- Soil and water management
- Agricultural economics
- Plant biology
- Animal nutrition
- Agri-tech and innovation
These courses help you build skills in problem-solving, data analysis, and sustainable practices.
Double majors and minors that pair well with agriculture
If you want to level up your degree, consider pairing agriculture with:
- Environmental science – for a deeper dive into sustainability.
- Business or economics – great for agribusiness careers.
- Biology or chemistry – useful for food science or research roles.
- Education – if you’re thinking about teaching agriculture.
What skills will I walk away with?
You’ll graduate with a toolkit that includes:
- Scientific research and data analysis
- Project management and teamwork
- Communication and leadership
- Tech skills in GIS, drones, and agri-software
- A strong understanding of sustainability and food systems
Popular careers for agriculture majors
Agriculture majors go on to work in a wide range of industries. Some popular career paths include:
- Agricultural and food scientist
- Farm manager
- Agribusiness consultant
- Environmental analyst
- Sales rep for agricultural products
- Agricultural educator
How much can I earn with an agriculture degree?
Your salary depends on your role and experience, but here’s a quick snapshot:
- Agricultural and food scientists earn a median salary of $78,770 per year.
- Sales representatives in agriculture can earn around $65,000–$85,000, depending on the product and region.
- Farm managers and crop specialists typically earn between $50,000 and $70,000.
- Entry-level roles like agricultural technicians may start around $40,000, but there’s room to grow.
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, August 2025
Notable schools with strong agriculture programs
Some standout schools for agriculture majors include:
Use the Scout College Search tool to find schools that match your goals.
Scholarships for agriculture majors
Paying for college doesn’t have to be overwhelming. There are scholarships specifically for agriculture students, including ones that don’t require essays or have super-specific requirements. You can explore options like the $2,000 No Essay Scholarship, Scholly Scholarships, and Scholarships by Major. For agriculture-specific funding, check out Scholarships for Agriculture Majors. These can help cover tuition, books, and even research projects—so don’t skip this step.
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