Why major in agriculture?

What does it mean to major in agriculture?

Why is Austin Peay State University a good place to major in agriculture?

What can APSU agriculture majors do after graduation?

Whom should I contact to learn more about majoring in agriculture?

What does it mean to major in agriculture?

Agriculture is one of the most important majors you could choose because it addresses a basic human need—food and other natural resources. Agriculture majors take a core collection of classes in agri-business and agricultural sciences (animal, plant and soil sciences).  These courses introduce students to the broad array of agricultural-related subject areas which provide a comprehensive understanding that will be useful in future agriculture-related careers. More specialized learning opportunities are provided through advanced coursework in individual concentration areas: Agri-Business, Agri-Communications, Agri-Science, Pre-Veterinary Medicine and Sustainable Development.  Agriculture students are more like a family than just a collection of majors.  During the course of their studies, agriculture students really get to know, work and collaborate with their fellow students and faculty in a variety of academic and social activities. Most agriculture majors also expand their learning opportunities outside the classroom through internships or co-op experiences with agribusinesses, agri-science companies, veterinary clinics or governmental agencies. They also participate in student organizations such as the Ag & Pre-Veterinary Club; Alpha Gamma Rho Agriculture Fraternity; and Delta Tau Alpha, Agriculture Honors Society.

Why is Austin Peay State University a good place to major in agriculture?

Small class size and individual attention from faculty.

• Five different concentration areas (Agri-Business, Agri-Communications, Agri-Science, Pre-Veterinary Medicine and Sustainable Development).
• A 440-acre University Farm for practical hands-on learning opportunities.  These includes three teaching cattle herds; several crop teaching fields (agronomic, forage  and vegetable crops); 200-acre forest with forestry and wildlife teaching plots; and renewable energy teaching facilities (solar, wind and biofuels).
• Active student organizations --the Ag & Pre-Veterinary Club; Alpha Gamma Rho Agriculture Fraternity; and Delta Tau Alpha, Agriculture Honors Society.
• Internship opportunities in agri-businesses, agri-science organizations and governmental agencies, as well as veterinary clinics to name a few.
• Opportunities to attend regional and national conferences.
• Solid record of placing graduates in agriculture-related and other careers.

What can APSU agriculture majors do after graduation?

Because agriculture encompasses so many aspects of our world, including the study of animal, plant, and environmental systems, agriculture majors can enter a variety of careers in business, government, and the nonprofit sectors—or work for themselves. Our graduates work in a wide variety of Agricultural related careers. These include but are not limited to: veterinary medicine, animal science technicians, crop consultants, crop breeding specialists, forestry/wildlife technicians, environmental quality specialists, renewable energy specialists, and agri-business managers.  Several recent national studies predict an increase in demand for agriculture graduates in the face of a shortage of agriculture graduates in the areas of management and science. Graduates with agricultural science, management and financial skills will be in demand. Agri-businesses, government agencies and related industries need managers and technicians who can communicate with farmers and business people. Graduates who broaden their agricultural experiences with courses in business, science, computers and GIS can enhance their opportunities for employment in agriculture.

Whom should I contact to learn more about majoring in agriculture?

Dr. Don Sudbrink, Chair
Department of Agriculture
Box 4607
Austin Peay State University
Clarksville, TN  37044
sudbrinkd@apsu.edu
931-221-7272

For more information about studying agriculture at APSU, follow this link to the Agriculture Department website.

Follow this link for a listing of possible careers for agriculture majors.