Agricultural Science, Communication and Leadership

A bachelor of science in agricultural science, communication and leadership offers both breadth and depth of knowledge – you will become proficient in several topic areas and master at least one.

You will select your areas of emphasis according to your career goals. Choose from courses in agricultural education; agricultural science and technology; agricultural systems management; animal and veterinary science; family and consumer science; food science and toxicology; microbiology, molecular biology and biochemistry; and plant, soil and entomological science.

In technical agriculture courses, you’ll learn by doing. Explore cow pregnancy rates and grazing management systems at on-campus animal centers. Observe the effects of insects on crop health at our plant science farms and use innovative water management and irrigation systems at our computer-controlled greenhouse. See how both engines and food-processing equipment work in the machinery lab.

Students are encouraged to gain real-world work experience with an internship the summer between their junior and senior year. You’ll also take field trips to various agriculture-related companies to meet with business leaders and tour their operations.

You can also earn a bachelor's degree through the University of Idaho while in Twin Falls. You can take classes at Twin Falls in person, on videotape, by videoconference and online. You have the option to transfer to the University of Idaho in Moscow for your last two years.

Prepare for Success

The agricultural science, communication, and leadership major is a good fit if you can see yourself:

• Gaining a competitive edge to advance your career in agriculture.
• Selecting your own areas of technical expertise.
• Engaging in active, hands-on learning.

To prepare, you may want to:

• Participate in 4-H or Future Farmers of America (FFA) activities, volunteer at a county fair, help raise livestock or work for a farm or ranch.
• Take as many courses as possible in math and science.
• Stay up-to-date with technological innovations.

Your First Year

Your first year, you will learn communication skills with course work in writing and public speaking. You will also familiarize yourself with your major through introductory courses in agriculture and mathematics. More advanced courses include computer science, agricultural systems management, and agricultural markets and prices. You select your areas of focus.

See the four-year plan.

What You Can Do

With an agricultural science, communication and leadership degree, you may become one of the following:

• Public relations specialist: Research, develop, and collaborate on media materials for a food manufacturer or agricultural group.
• Journalist: Specialize in agricultural topics for a newspaper or magazine.
• Farm or ranch manager: Guide all aspects of a crop or livestock operation, either someone else's or your own.
• Field representative: Ensure that your company’s products are being used to their best advantage.
• Adult educator: Provide technical training to farm operators and agricultural companies.
• Agricultural analyst: Provide technical advice and consulting on agricultural issues and related topics for a state or federal agency.
• Youth development educator: Provide learning opportunities for 4-H or other organizations.
• Community planning consultant: Help rural areas create jobs and expand their economies by teaching agricultural business practices.

Opportunities

Our graduates are highly sought by employers, with starting salaries of up to $40,000 in governmental agencies, nonprofit organizations and businesses.

You may also choose to continue your education, and go on to graduate school in agricultural economics, plant science, animal science, agricultural education or engineering.

Current Research

The University of Idaho maintains 12 field research stations located from Sandpoint to Kimberly, where our faculty members solve Idaho’s most pressing agricultural problems. Our faculty explore innovations that increase efficiency and sustainability in growing crops and producing livestock.

Activities

Collegiate Future Farmers of America (FFA): Manage livestock judging at the Latah County Fair. Hear special presentations by professionals. Attend state and national FFA events.
Collegiate 4-H: Teach workshops and attend conferences.
Block and Bridle: Practice showmanship, judge contests and exhibit livestock at regional shows.

Hands-On Experience

Intern. Get practical experiences like these:

• USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service: Provide technical and financial assistance to farmers and ranchers.
• U.S. Congress: Research legislation affecting agriculture.
• Idaho Bean Commission: Write marketing materials and publications.

• New Zealand: Gain a new perspective on agriculture.
• Peru: Discover how mango farmers package and market their products.
• Taiwan: See how farms are organized to get the most out of the country’s small size.
• India: Gain a new perspective on the global marketplace.

Facilities

You’ll have access to on-campus greenhouses, plant science farms, livestock facilities and numerous scientific laboratories.