Best Online Associate in Agricultural Degree Programs: Getting an online associate degree in agriculture opens up opportunities in agricultural sales, livestock management, and agribusiness. The Bureau of Labor Statistics states that farmers and agricultural managers make around $71,160 annually.
This guide delves into top online associate in agriculture programs, discussing common courses, admission criteria, and potential career paths.
The best programs equip graduates for entry-level jobs in agriculture or further studies in related fields.
Online associate degrees in agriculture usually cover subjects like soil science, agricultural marketing, farming, chemistry, and animal science. Concentrations such as sustainable farming, agricultural technology, and agribusiness may be offered. Internship opportunities are often available for practical experience.
Most agriculture jobs only require an associate degree for entry-level roles, so many students opt not to pursue a bachelor’s degree. Those pursuing a four-year degree may aim to manage large-scale farms or delve into agricultural economics. Some may focus on advanced research roles through a degree in agricultural biology.
Common Online Associate in Agriculture Degree Courses
- Agriculture and Food Management
This class helps students learn the necessary abilities for jobs in agriculture and food management, covering tasks like handling information and analyzing finances.
- Principles of Soil Science
This class teaches students about soil science basics, covering how human activities affect soil and exploring its chemical, biological, and physical characteristics. Students gain a general grasp of how soil science is relevant in areas like water purification, agricultural engineering, and sustainable farming.
- Farm Implements
This class delves into everyday tools on farms, used by farmers and ranchers. Students discover how to use, care for, tweak, and fine-tune various farm machinery.
- Ecosystem Science
This class looks into how living things interact with their surroundings, usually using basic principles from natural and physical sciences. Some courses also cover topics such as sustainability and environmental science, looking at both small and large-scale environments worldwide.
- AG Safety and Health
Essential for anyone aiming to work in agriculture, safety and health training covers typical dangers in daily field labor. The course covers risks such as animal behavior, chemicals, big machines, and navigating confined areas. Students gain knowledge on ways to prevent and address issues, as well as maintenance practices.
Online Associate in Agriculture Admission Requirements
High School Diploma:
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- Having a high school diploma or its equivalent is often needed for incoming college students. Fulfilling this requirement shows colleges that an applicant is ready for the academic challenges at the college level.
- Resume:
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- Certain online agriculture programs may ask for a resume or a statement of purpose when you apply. Schools that consider various aspects in admissions, including both academic qualifications and resumes, gain a more comprehensive view of applicants. A statement of purpose is useful for the admissions office to grasp why a student is interested in studying agriculture.
- GPA:
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- Most online agriculture associate programs commonly expect a minimum GPA for admission. The required GPA may vary among schools, but a 2.0 GPA is usually the standard cutoff.
- ACT or SAT Scores:
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- Certain schools let students choose which test scores to submit, while others express a preference. Some colleges have a set minimum score for ACT or SAT, while others don’t mandate standardized test scores.
- Prerequisite Coursework:
- Typically, online agriculture associate programs don’t ask for specific agriculture-related prerequisites. However, some schools may require completion of general introductory college courses in subjects like math and English. Students who lack these prerequisites might need to take placement tests before enrolling.
Best Online Associate in Agricultural Degree Programs
University of Massachusetts – Amherst, Massachusetts
Online Associate’s in Sustainable Food and Farming
The University of Massachusetts Stockbridge School of Agriculture provides an online program for a sustainable agriculture degree. They now have a fully online associate’s degree in sustainable food production and farming.
This online agriculture degree is suitable for those aiming for a bachelor’s in agriculture and food science. Even though it’s an associate-level program, classes are taught by university professors.
The online courses cover various agriculture and farm business management topics, such as Food and Ag Law, Mushroom Culture, Beekeeping, Pest Management, and Sustainable Agriculture. UMass Amherst, known for quality agriculture programs, is ranked 66th by U.S. News and World Report among national universities. Interested students can apply for financial aid, and the undergraduate tuition is $16,439.
Utah State University – Logan, Utah
Online Associate’s in Agricultural Science
Utah State University provides an accredited online agriculture degree, where students gain a solid understanding of agriculture and food systems through a blend of research and modern technology.
Upon completing the associate’s program (which requires 60 credits), graduates can either enter the agriculture workforce or pursue a four-year degree. The online curriculum is entirely web-based, taught by the university’s respected faculty, and offers two early start dates.
Utah State University, recognized as a top-ranked national institution, holds the 241st position among the best national universities according to U.S. News and World Report. Additionally, the school’s online bachelor’s degree programs are highly regarded, securing the 23rd spot out of over 1,200 programs. The undergraduate tuition for this program is $8,960.
Northwest Iowa Community College – Sheldon, sou
Online Associate’s in Agriculture
Northwest Iowa Community College provides affordable options for those looking to earn an agriculture associate’s degree online. The program opens doors to various careers in agriculture, such as ag sales, farm management, and food systems production.
Graduates often find employment in these fields, and some choose to pursue a bachelor’s degree later. The online agriculture degree program offers a diverse range of classes, covering subjects like Ag Law, Agricultural Sales, and Farm Management, all taught by qualified instructors.
Benefits of attending include small class sizes (13 to 1 student-to-faculty ratio) and a high post-graduation job placement rate. Financial aid may be available for eligible students. The undergraduate tuition is $6,540.
Southwestern Community College – Creston, Iowa
Online Associate’s in Agricultural Business
Southwestern Community College’s agriculture program blends business and agricultural science classes, preparing future agricultural workers with specialized training in ag business and farm management.
The online program, designed for easy transfer to a four-year college, covers various ag and business topics such as Ag Sales, Crop Science, Agriculture Markets, Horticulture Principles, and Livestock Management. To earn the AAS degree in agricultural business, online students need to complete 68 credits and maintain a 2.0 GPA. Financial aid is available, and the undergraduate tuition is $6,560.
Lake Area Technical College – Watertown, South Dakota
Online Associate’s in Agri-Business
Lake Area Technical College (LATC) provides an agri-business option in its agriculture program, suitable for those pursuing careers in business and agriculture. The agri-business associate degree can be completed in 20 months, making it one of the fastest in agriculture.
Online courses cover subjects like Ag Safety, Crop Science, and Agricultural Technology. LATC also offers business courses online, including topics in business law and supervision. With a 99% graduate placement rate, LATC is among the top community colleges in South Dakota. Qualified students may also qualify for financial aid. The undergraduate tuition is $6,718.
Umpqua Community College – Roseburg, Oregon
Online Associate’s in Agricultural Business Management
Umpqua Community College offers an affordable online agricultural science degree with a focus on agricultural business management. The program, taught by experienced faculty, equips students with leadership skills and solid business practices for successful careers in agriculture.
Topics covered include Agricultural and Resource Economics, Introduction to Business, Management in Agriculture, and Farm Management. The school collaborates with Oregon State University, allowing online students to dual-enroll, access scholarships, and avail other university services. The undergraduate tuition is $5,282.
Western Iowa Tech Community College – Sioux City, Iowa
Online Associate’s in Agriculture Business
At Western Iowa Tech Community College, students can get a degree in agriculture and business. To earn the online AS in agriculture business, students need to finish program requirements. The courses, delivered online, cover topics like ag selling, farm business management, soil science basics, agriculture markets introduction, agronomy principles, and animal industry overview.
To complete the AS, students must earn 64 credits. This program suits those interested in careers like commodity sales, farm/agri-business management, and retail/wholesale selling. WITCC is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, affordable, and offers financial aid.
Undergraduate Tuition: $4,802
Lakeshore Technical College – Cleveland, Wisconsin
Online Associate’s in Agribusiness Science and Technology
Lakeshore Technical College offers a 60-credit agriculture associate degree online program that can be finished in four terms. The classes, taught by Lakeshore Tech instructors, are entirely online. This program provides opportunities in various agribusiness and agricultural careers.
Core topics include Agribusiness Economics, Agricultural Finance, Legal Aspects of Agribusiness, and Livestock Production Systems and Management. Both full-time and part-time options are available, offering flexibility. Lakeshore is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, making students eligible for financial aid. The undergraduate tuition is $4,484.
Casper College – Casper, Wyoming
Online Associate’s in General Agriculture
Casper College’s agriculture associate’s degree has no admission prerequisites and is designed to suit various career goals. The online program, taught by experienced faculty, covers subjects like Agriculture Economics, Animal Science/Animal Health, Management, Marketing, Record Keeping, and Soil Science. As the courses are online, you need a computer and internet access, providing flexibility for students to balance work and family commitments.
The credits are transferable to four-year institutions, and graduates can pursue employment in the field. Casper College is fully accredited, making eligible students eligible for federal financial aid. The undergraduate tuition is $3,480.
Northcentral Technical College – Wausau, Wisconsin
Online Associate’s in Crop Science (Agronomy)
Northcentral Technical College provides the most budget-friendly agriculture degree program on our list. The online associate’s degree focuses on crop science or agronomy and consists of 60 credits with hands-on learning and theoretical principles.
The program covers key aspects of crop management, including nutrient, pest, soil, and water management. Students engage in managing 100 acres and complete an internship. Course topics include Agriculture Equipment Safety, Crop Scouting Techniques, Nutrient Management, and Principles of Crop Production.
The college, in operation for over a century, is now fully accredited, offering an affordable online agriculture associate’s degree, even without financial aid, with an undergraduate tuition of $3,723.
Online Associate in Agriculture Career Paths
People who complete an online associate degree in agriculture can access different job opportunities in the field. Various positions, ranging from basic to more advanced roles, only demand an associate degree.
In agriculture, career progression often comes through gaining hands-on experience rather than obtaining a higher-level degree. Those with a degree may start as agricultural workers to gather field experience before pursuing roles like farmers, ranchers, agricultural managers, and technicians in agricultural and food science. Some experts also opt for certification as accredited farm managers.
Frequently Asked Questions
What can you do with an associate degree in agriculture?
Getting an associate degree in agriculture opens up opportunities in farming, livestock, and ag management, as well as merchandising and marketing within the field. These degrees often provide various specialization choices, letting students customize their studies based on their interests.
How long does it take to get an agriculture degree?
Most students typically spend two years to get an associate degree in agriculture. Yet, there are some programs that have faster ways to finish.
Is an agriculture degree worth it?
Degrees in farming cover different areas, getting students ready for various jobs. Those who get hands-on experience and move into management roles can earn salaries significantly higher than the average for all jobs nationwide.
What are the highest-paying jobs in agriculture?
People who complete a two-year agriculture degree can land better jobs as farmers or ranchers, making over $70,000 annually. Agricultural engineers, on the other hand, require a four-year degree and specific expertise, but they lead in earnings with median wages surpassing $80,000.
How much does an agriculture major make?
An individual’s potential earnings depend on many variables, including their location, education, and area of agricultural expertise. Many agricultural workers in entry-level positions earn median salaries between $25,000 and $30,000, while agricultural and food science technicians typically earn more than $40,000 per year.