Having the extra education and experience associated with graduate work in agricultural science does not only prepare you for lucrative jobs. It enhances your knowledge and skills for a future in this rapidly evolving field.
In the world today, Agriculture serves as a major source of income to individuals, governments, and organizations. People go into diverse agricultural practices such as fishing and livestock.
With the rapid growth and high demand in this sector, an undergraduate degree is no longer sufficient.
Therefore, if you want to deal with agriculture at an advanced level, you may have to consider enrolling in a master’s program or even a PhD.
These schools will expose you to top agriculture specializations like Agricultural Economics, Crop and Livestock Farming Systems, Genetics & Breeding, or any agriculture subdiscipline, we have made it easy for you.
In this article, you will gain an insight into what a master’s degree in agriculture offers, the best school for a master of agric program, and many more. The table below will guide you on how to navigate through the various options.
What is Agriculture?
A lot of people limit Agriculture to being just farming(growing of crops). That is a small fraction of the Agriculture profession. Agriculture, by definition, is a science that deals with the production of crops and the raising of animals for the purpose of providing food.
Agriculture has so many branches which include:
Why Study Agricultural Science?
The World cannot function without people working within the Agriculture & Forestry sector. However, with today’s technology, agricultural science is proven to be a top-notch career to consider and also interesting to get involved in.
Courses in Veterinary medicine, food production, plant science, property management, environmental preservation, horticulture, and zoology are all areas that you can explore within agriculture.
So, if you are considering taking a degree in agriculture, you are taking the right decision. Apparently studying agriculture in a place like the United State means that you’ll be working in an important industry that is both considered to be fast-moving and high-tech.
As a graduate in agriculture, you could be a manager on a conventional farm. These jobs can be very lucrative and highly rewarding. Your role usually will include overseeing food production in society and learning skills that can be applied across sectors.
Similarly, the biotechnology sector offers various career paths for agriculture graduates Including the consultancy role at a large firm. However, a position as an auditor or regulator in a biotechnological field ensures you as a potential candidate for another position.
Additionally, an agriculture career creates room for advancement in many routes ranging from business management, farming journalism, data analyzing, public recreation, social research, and many others.
Masters Degree In Agriculture
Generally, a master’s degree program offers students an opportunity to focus on a particular aspect of agriculture. Students explore the understanding and management of farmland, forestry, fisheries, and livestock.
They focus on a wide range of specialist topics, from commerce and technology to sustainability and zoology.
Furthermore, the agriculture masters program usually takes about a year or two depending on the institution. Students are exposed to bigger and more complex coursework to achieve an education adequate to the demands of a rapidly changing world of work.
Additionally, a master’s in agriculture opens up many potential career paths for individuals in this field.
How Much Does It Cost To enroll In Masters in Agriculture?
The cost of getting an advanced degree in agriculture is dependent on quite a number of factors. First are the school and the location.
Most agricultural schools charge higher tuition for out-of-state students. However, some schools charge flat tuition regardless of residency.
Another key factor is the number of programs. A school that offers a greater number of programs is bound to charge more compared to that with a lesser number of programs.
In summary, the average tuition for an agriculture program typically ranges from $10,000 and $60,000 per year for students in a standard or full-time program.
If you are worried about how to fund your education, you can access top Agriculture Scholarships Around the World
What are the requirements for Obtaining a Master’s Agriculture?
The major prerequisite to acquiring a master’s degree in agriculture is a bachelor’s degree in agriculture or related discipline.
After acquiring your bachelor’s degree and passing the relevant professional exams, you can then obtain a Master’s degree. The graduate program is simply a continuation of the undergraduate curriculum but it will be more vast and challenging as well.
In addition, if you possess a master’s degree in agricultural science or a related field, you may decide to pursue a Ph.D. Apparently, this will launch you into opportunities at the top levels of industry and employment in research or teaching.
How Can I Apply for A Good Masters Program in Agriculture?
To apply for admission to any agriculture graduate school, you have to first, visit your preferred school site to view their requirements.
If you meet your school’s requirements, then you can proceed and acquire the admission form. Note that you can either do that online through the school website or you proceed to campus.
Furthermore, to gain admission into any agriculture graduate school, you are expected to hold a bachelor’s degree in a related discipline.
You can also obtain your master’s degree from one of the best 15 Best Agriculture Schools in The World
What are the Best Masters In Agriculture?
Below is a list of schools offering master’s programs in agriculture. Our list is categorized into Top agricultural schools and best US schools for agriculture. You can choose the one that best suits your career goals.
Our selection criteria of these schools are the number of programs offered by the schools, education quality, average earnings of graduates, tuition, accreditation, and several other relevant factors.
We got our data from reliable sources, testimonials, interviews, and also by contacting individual schools. You will have to read further to get information on the various degree programs offered, tuition info, and program options for these schools.
#1. The University of Western Australia
Average Tuition: AUD8,622
Accreditation: Department of Education and Training
If you are seeking the best masters in agriculture, The University of Western Australia should be the first place on your mind. This school awards a master’s in Agric Economics.
The reason is that the institution has a relatively small student-faculty ratio which allows the students to build a strong relationship with their tutors and other students.
Students offering agriculture courses pursue an education in classrooms, research laboratories, design subjects, as well as field subjects. This program prepares them for a higher job position and also an advanced course in this field.
#2. University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
Average Tuition: $14,899
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign consistently ranks as one of the best universities for agriculture in Australia. The school features an 18 months master’s program leading to an MS in Agricultural production.
Masters students are provided with an adequate and encouraging environment that helps them to learn and work in an innovative and fresh way. They are exposed to various research programs conducted in University which have helped to bring changes in the world.
#3. University of Algarve
Average Tuition: $4,037
Accreditation: Ministério da Ciência, Tecnologia
If you are considering a reputable institution for your master’s program, the University of Algarve is a great choice.
According to data from the school website, the school’s teaching is among the top 20%, the international outlook in the top 10%, research in the top 10%, and industry income in the top 20% when compared with universities across the globe.
The University of Algarve features a 2-year program leading to master’s in Aquaculture and Fisheries. Students engage in research topics that aim to address issues, offer solutions, and advance technology within the agriculture sector.
#4. Ghent University
Average Tuition: $1,500
Accreditation: Flemish Ministry of Education and Training, Belgium
Ghent University has a great college of agriculture with a wide selection of majors. This school awards one of the best Master of Science in aquaculture.
The programs cover a wide range of courses that gives the students an advantage to top agriculture companies within the country and the world at large.
The Master of Science program is usually two semesters to complete. Students are expected to complete a minimum of 24 units of coursework with a comprehensive examination or report.
Graduates of Ghent are sought by all major companies, government agencies, and industries.
#5. University of Göttingen
Tuition: €367.91
Accreditation: Niedersächsisches Ministerium für Wissenschaft
The University of Göttingen offers a 2-year program leading to a master’s of science in Integrated Plant and Animal Breeding (iPAB). The iPAB program prepares students for an international career in the breeding sector.
Graduates of this program can get opportunities in Plant breeding companies, Animal breeding companies, Breeding associations, Public and private research centers, and other related job settings.
To gain admission into this program, you must possess a BSc of at least 3 years duration in Agriculture or other related degrees at an accredited institution in or outside Germany that has been completed.
Top Master’s Degree in Agriculture In United States
If you are resident in the united states, you can acquire a masters degree in agriculture from the following accredited institutions
#1. Texas State University
Average Tuition: $37,726
Accreditation: SACSCOC
Texas State University offers one of the best masters in agriculture in the US and across the world. This school ranks among the top agricultural science schools in the world.
This M.S. program curriculum features key concepts in animal science, plant and soil science, agricultural economics, and agricultural education.
At the end of the program, students gain the skills, knowledge, and attitudes necessary to improve the quality of life for many people through agricultural practice.
#2. University of the District of Columbia
Average Tuition:
Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
University of the District of Columbia(UDC) is a leader in agriculture. UDC has an outstanding international reputation for research and excellent facilities for postgraduate research and taught courses.
The agriculture department provides a wide range of courses and large research centers that allows students to share expertise and resources. Students gain experience in various agriculture subdisciplines and apply it in everyday life.
#3. South Dakota State University
Average Tuition: $10,718
Accreditation: Council on Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA)
South Dakota State University offers a master’s degree in agriculture with a curriculum dispensed by faculty that is committed to student success.
This program features cutting-edge research to fuel economic opportunity. Students work hard to find solutions to current problems, as well as opportunities for tomorrow.
Coursework in this program covers topics in all agriculture subfields including Agriculture economics, Agric extension, soil science, and many others.
#5. Texas tech University
Average Tuition: $8,268 per semester
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Texas tech university master in agriculture is one of the best in the US. The college consistently ranks among the best agriculture schools nationally and internationally.
Texas tech features a 24-month Master of Science in Agricultural Communications. Coursework covers key concepts in communication sciences and agriculture.
Students in this program offer courses that enhance their thinking and prepare them to handle problems in the real world.
#5. Clemson University
Average Tuition: $26,850
Accreditation: Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
Clemson University awards a Master of Agricultural Education. Students in this program offer courses that enhance their thinking and prepare them to handle problems in the real world.
Coursework focuses on topics on teacher education, adult and extension education, agricultural communications, youth development, or technology transfer.
Graduates of this program can gain employment as agriculture teachers, extension agents, agricultural and environmental agency employees, as well as human resource development specialists in the agricultural industry.
What Can I Do With A Masters Degree In Agriculture?
Agriculture has varieties of options including Livestock and farming. Agriculturists who focus on farm practices can work outside on fields, pastures, and also the botanical gardens.
Those into Livestock and breeding of animals can work in the Zoo or in research labs. Others work in the universities and colleges, government departments or private entities, farming and breeding associations.
How Much Can I Earn With A Masters In Agriculture?
Graduates of the agriculture program earn about $40,791 for their early career and $76,822 in their mid-career. However, data from the US Bureau of Labor Statistics show that the median annual wage for agricultural and food scientists was $64,020 in May 2018.
What is the Job Outlook For Individuals With a Masters in Agriculture?
Farms employ 15% to 20% of the workforce globally. According to the American Farm Bureau Federation, $115 billion in agricultural goods were exported from the United States.
US Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that the overall employment of agricultural and food scientists will grow 7 percent from 2018 to 2028, faster than the average for all occupations.
Also, the employment of agricultural and food scientists is projected to grow as research into agricultural production methods and techniques continues.
Agriculture is a fast-growing field and offers a huge range of career opportunities. If you are a professional in this field, you can acquire an advanced degree or learn a new skill by enrolling in the top agriculture graduate schools on our list.
Frequently Asked Questions On Best Masters in Agriculture
The top graduate schools for agriculture in US are:
Texas State University
University of the District of Columbia
South Dakota State University
Texas tech University
Clemson University
Tuition in agriculture graduate schools ranges from $10,000 and $60,000.
A master’s degree holder in agriculture may get employed in top agriculture industries and many other job settings related to this discipline.
Reference
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