FEATURE
Field research
Innovative careers in agriculture
When you hear the word “agriculture,” what comes to mind? The most obvious are jobs directly connected to farming. In fact, agriculture is a field with more than 200 different career options that is expanding and innovating every day.
And although it’s not the first thing most Americans think of in relation to the economy, agricultural products are among the top US exports and a critical component in the world market. America exported a record $140.9 billion in agricultural products last year alone.
In Missouri, the agriculture industry accounts for more than 60 percent of the marketable commodities produced, and directly impacts the processing, shipping, and retail industries in the state and beyond.
A leading state for livestock, dairy products, and corn, Missouri also exports a large proportion of the nation’s soybeans, a hugely versatile crop used in industries across the globe. The state’s fruits and vegetable crops have diversified over the past several decades, presenting farmers with exciting possibilities, from winemaking to beekeeping.
Careers in farming, ranching, and other types of agricultural management are expected to grow in the next decade. Wages in these fields average $69,300, with plenty of room for specialization and independence.
Changing food demand and climate challenges will present agriculture grads with many new opportunities in the next decade. “Skyrocketing consumer demand for local and regional food is an economic opportunity for America’s farmers and ranchers,” USDA Secretary Tom Vilsack recently noted, adding that success is a result of “entrepreneurship, sound business sense, and a desire for social impact.”
Agronomy
Agronomy, the science of agriculture, encompasses work in plant genetics, biotechnology, chemistry, soil management, and pest control. Students working toward a Professional Certificate in Agronomy will study plant development, crop production techniques, agricultural chemicals, soil, and pest management.
Agricultural Business
Farming is not just a mom-and-pop enterprise, and business skills are valuable assets in the industry. Students earning a Professional Certificate in Agricultural Business will learn management of business resources and price risk, lending, salesmanship, and the impact of food policy on the market.
Horticulture
Horticulturalists produce plants for human food and non-food uses, including for gardens, landscaping, floristry, and commercial greenhouses and produce sales. Horticulture offers a wide range of satisfying and creative career paths for virtually every interest and aptitude.
Sustainable Agriculture
A certificate in Sustainable Agriculture Skills provides small-scale farmers and gardeners with the skills needed to manage a sustainable food production operation. Students who earn a Sustainable Agriculture Skills Certificate will study farming practices such as erosion control, composting, along with beekeeping and other skills.
Naomi Sheehan

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STUDENT SUCCESS STORY
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Your College Program
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