The Agriculture program at Williston State College provides a blend of practical skills and academic knowledge tailored to the evolving needs of the agricultural industry. By completing this program, students gain a strong foundation in agribusiness, crop science, livestock management, and sustainable agriculture practices. Here’s a deeper look into what you’ll learn:

• Agriculture Industry Insights:
  Begin with an introduction to the diverse agriculture industry, covering essential topics such as food production, resource management, and agricultural economics.

• Crop and Soil Science:
  Develop a scientific understanding of soil health and crop production, including pest and weed management. Learn sustainable practices that improve soil fertility and optimize crop yield.

• Agribusiness and Marketing Skills:
  Build knowledge in agribusiness operations and marketing techniques specific to the agriculture sector. Learn how to manage finances, conduct market analysis, and implement sales strategies to support agricultural enterprises.

• Livestock Production:
  Gain hands-on knowledge in livestock management, including breeding, nutrition, and welfare, preparing you to oversee livestock operations on farms and ranches.

• Environmental Sustainability:
  Explore sustainable farming practices that balance production goals with environmental stewardship, learning how to conserve resources and reduce the ecological footprint of agricultural activities.

• AGRI 150 | Agriculture Orientation | 1 credit
• AGRI 160 | Introduction to Agriculture Industry | 3 credits
• AGRI 170 | Introductory Soil Science | 3 credits
• AGRI 210 | Introduction to Agribusiness | 3 credits
• AGRI 220 | Agriculture Marketing and Sales | 3 credits
• AGRI 250 | Crop Production | 4 credits
• AGRI 260 | Livestock Production | 4 credits
• AGRI 297 | Cooperative Education/Internship | 1 credit
• BIOL 150 | General Biology I | 4 credits
• CHEM 115 | Introductory Chemistry | 4 credits
• ECON 201 | Principles of Microeconomics | 3 credits
• ECON 202 | Principles of Macroeconomics | 3 credits

1. Completion of at least 62 semester credits (varies by program), including 15 general education credits consisting of one course from each of the following areas:
   • Communication
   • Math, Science, Technology, and Business
   • Humanities or Social Science
   • Wellness
2. 2.00 (C) minimum institutional grade point average or higher (GPA required in select programs)
3. Completion of prescribed career-technical curriculum
4. Successful completion of UNIV 100 College Strategies (1 credit) or UNIV 101 College Transitions (1 credit)
5. Program coordinator’s approval
6. Minimum of 16 credits completed in residence (remedial coursework DOES NOT count)
7. Maximum of 12 S/U graded credits (program approval required for 13 credits or more)
8. Maximum of 15 credits of non-traditional college credit (i.e. AP, CLEP, military training, WSC Challenge exam credit, portfolio development, industry training, prior learning, and courses covered under high school articulation agreement)

Graduates from the Agriculture program can pursue various career opportunities within the agriculture industry, ranging from production management to agribusiness roles. Below are some potential career paths and estimated salaries:

1. Agricultural Technician

   • Job Role: Assist in crop and soil testing, data collection, and field research to support agricultural scientists and farm managers.
   • Average Salary: $42,000 per year

2. Crop Production Specialist

   • Job Role: Manage crop health, implement pest control strategies, and ensure optimal yield in agricultural production.
   • Average Salary: $52,000 per year

3. Livestock Production Manager

   • Job Role: Oversee breeding, feeding, and care of livestock, ensuring productivity and adherence to health standards.
   • Average Salary: $48,000 per year

4. Agribusiness Sales Representative

   • Job Role: Market agricultural products, equipment, and services to farmers and agribusinesses, often involving customer relationship management.
   • Average Salary: $57,000 per year

5. Soil and Plant Scientist

   • Job Role: Conduct research to enhance soil quality and crop yield, focusing on sustainable practices and agricultural productivity.
   • Average Salary: $63,000 per year

6. Agricultural Extension Officer

   • Job Role: Educate farmers on best practices, emerging technologies, and sustainable farming methods to improve agricultural outcomes.
   • Average Salary: $50,000 per year

7. Opportunities for Further Advancement:
   Graduates often pursue further education or specialized certifications, which can lead to advanced roles such as agronomist, environmental analyst, or agricultural consultant with higher earning potential and greater responsibility.

Estimated Cost of Attendance