Agricultural Production Colleges, Universites & Degree Programs

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Agricultural production programs focus on the economics, general planning, and use of facilities, equipment, labor, natural resources, and capital required to produce animal and plant products. These programs are designed to help prepare students to work in ranching, farming, forestry, and agribusiness. Just a few of the many careers available to graduates with a degree in agricultural production include Animal Breeder, Aquaculturist, Equine Operator, Farm Manager, Farmer, Feedlot Manager, Forest Manager, Fruit and Vegetable Grower, Greenhouse Manager, Nursery Manager and Operator, Rancher, Seed Producer, Tree Farmer, Turf Producer, and Viticulturist.

One of the best aspects of earning a degree in agricultural production are the job opportunities that abound upon graduation. It’s estimated that there are approximately 8,000 new job opportunities in agricultural production each year compared to the 7,000 graduates with the education and skill sets required to fill these positions. In short, there are more job openings than there are candidates to fill them. In fact, over 16% of all new positions available each year to college graduates are in industries (food, agriculture, natural resoure systems, etc.) relating to agricultural and forestry production.

Historically, careers in agricultural production were for traditional ranchers, farmers, and herd managers. However, as this industry has and continues to consolidate, there will be fewer and fewer opportunities for those involved in the production of traditional commodities such as corn, wheat, cotton, soybeans, hogs, cattle, and other livestock. More opportunity will exist in industries relating to fruits and vegetables, landscape horticultural crops, and other specialty crops. Agricultural production professionals who are able to capture niche markets and sell products and services directly to consumers are likely to find the greatest opportunities.

It’s estimated that 90% of all agricultural and forestry production positions will be filled by graduates who’ve completed an advanced degree in agriculture and natural resources. All remaining positions will be filled by professionals with degrees in various allied fields including biological sciences, applied technologies and business.

The following colleges and universities provide majors and degree programs in Agricultural Production.