Northwest Missouri State University

What you'll study

The agriculture degree balances foundational science and applied skills. Core topics typically include crop science, animal science, soil science, plant pathology, pest management, and agricultural economics. You will also study agribusiness principles such as farm and resource management, marketing, agricultural finance and agricultural law.

• Core courses: Introduction to Agriculture, Principles of Crop Production, Principles of Animal Science, Soil Science, Plant and Pest Management, Agricultural Economics.
• Technical and applied modules: Precision agriculture and GIS applications, animal nutrition and health, livestock production systems, farm machinery and basic agricultural engineering, forage and pasture management.
• Supporting sciences: Biology, chemistry, genetics and statistics to underpin applied work in crop and animal systems.
• Experiential learning: Field labs, hands-on practicum, supervised work on the university’s instructional farms and greenhouses, and industry internships or cooperative placements.
• Capstone or senior project: A research-based or applied project that integrates technical knowledge with management and communication skills.
• Electives and concentrations: Options commonly include agribusiness management, crop production and protection, livestock systems, conservation and natural resource management, allowing customisation to career goals.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a high school diploma or equivalent. Competitive entry typically requires satisfactory performance in core academic subjects, with particular emphasis on mathematics and natural sciences. Recommended high school preparation includes algebra, biology, chemistry and, where available, agricultural science or related vocational courses.

• Submission of official high school transcripts; transfer applicants should provide college transcripts.
• Standardised test scores (SAT/ACT) may be considered where required by the university, but policies on tests can vary so applicants should check current requirements.
• International applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency through recognised tests such as TOEFL or IELTS, unless exempt.
• Additional materials that strengthen an application include a personal statement outlining agricultural experience and goals, letters of recommendation, and documentation of any practical experience such as FFA, 4‑H or farm work.

Career prospects

Graduates with a Bachelor’s in Agriculture leave prepared for a wide range of roles in production, technical services, business and conservation. The programme’s applied orientation and industry links support direct entry into employment as well as further study.

• Production roles: farm manager, crop or livestock production specialist, herd manager.
• Technical and advisory roles: agronomist, crop consultant, extension educator, precision agriculture technician.
• Business and industry: agribusiness sales and marketing, commodity merchandising, farm management advisor, supply chain and food industry positions.
• Conservation and resource management: soil conservationist, watershed or natural resource technician.
• Further study and research: graduate programmes in agricultural sciences, animal science, crop science, agricultural economics or related fields.

Why study at Northwest Missouri State University

Northwest Missouri State University emphasises hands-on learning and close faculty mentoring, with agriculture students benefiting from instructional farms, laboratories and applied projects that mirror real-world farm and agribusiness environments. Class sizes tend to allow direct contact with faculty and opportunities for undergraduate research and leadership in student agricultural organisations.

• Strong practical orientation with field labs, greenhouse and farm-based teaching and internships that build job-ready skills.
• Opportunities to tailor study through concentrations and elective pathways to match career ambitions in production, business or conservation.
• Industry connections and career services that support internship placements and employer networking.
• Active student clubs and professional organisations that provide leadership experience and exposure to current industry practice.