For those who recognize the power of the Earth as a natural resource, an agriculture degree program is an opportunity to make a difference. From developing eco-friendly farming operations to finding new strains of pest-resistant crops, an online degree in agriculture prepares you for the constantly changing worlds of natural resource management and crop cultivation, to name only a few.
Degree and Career Options in Agriculture
The agriculture degree program features associate's, bachelor's, master's and doctoral-level diplomas. Most employers prefer candidates with at least a four-year bachelor's degree, and those wishing to teach the subject typically continue on to the postgraduate levels. A doctoral degree is routinely required for positions in research and development.
Career options for this online degree program include:
- Agricultural Production Management
- Food Systems Analyst
- Agricultural Marketing
- Agricultural Economics Statistician
- Natural Resource Protection Management
- Public Policy Management
- Agricultural Finance Analyst or Manager
Employment Outlook and Potential Salary
The US Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that employment of agricultural and food scientists is projected to increase by 9 percent through 2012-22; that's about the same as the national average for all occupations over the coming decade.
With respect to potential salary, median annual earnings of food scientists and technologists were $58,610 in 2012. The lowest 10 percent earned $34,750 or less while the top 10 percent earned more than $104,840. Salary is typically commensurate with experience and education.
Agriculture Coursework and Online Study Options
The environmental aspects of an online education in agriculture focus on sustainable, renewable resources. Typical coursework includes:
- Agricultural business management
- Agricultural development
- Agricultural finance
- Animal, plant and poultry science
- Communications
- Farming equipment
- Food supply and statistics
- Natural resource management
- Production and supply
An online education is particularly convenient for high school graduates and mid-career changers who want to earn a degree as well as a paycheck. Convenient class schedules and from-home interface help you complete your program at your own pace.
Source:
Bureau of Labor Statistics, Agricultural and Food Scientists