Agricultural science, communication and leadership

Bachelor of Science in Agricultural Life Sciences

U of I student standing in a wheat field talk with instructors.

Overview

College:

College of Agricultural and Life Sciences

Duration:

4 years, 120 credits

Locations:

Moscow

Connect people to agriculture

Use your passion for agriculture to bring people together.

In this program, you’ll build a strong foundation in agricultural sciences while sharpening the communication, leadership and problem-solving skills needed to share agriculture’s story. You'll learn to tackle the real challenges facing rural communities, agricultural producers and the global food system. You’ll have the freedom to shape your education around your career goals.

Core courses in agricultural communications and leadership pair with electives in areas such as animal science, plant and soil science, agricultural systems management, family and consumer sciences and rangeland ecology, giving you the tools to connect technical knowledge with clear, impactful messaging. You can also expand your expertise with a minor to strengthen your career options. Whether you’re interested in public relations, policy, education, Extension, or community leadership, this program equips you to be a trusted voice and skilled advocate for agriculture — ready to create content to engage audiences and lead conversations that matter.

This degree is also offered as a 2+2 program in cooperation with the College of Western Idaho in Caldwell and the College of Southern Idaho in Twin Falls. Students complete their first two years at CWI or CSI, then transfer to U of I to complete the ASCL degree at a distance. To learn more about this option, please contact Amanda Moore-Kriwox.

This program could be a good fit if you:

Want a flexible degree you can tailor to your interests and career goals
Enjoy hands-on, active learning
Have an interest in promoting and sharing stories about the agricultural industry
Have strong communication skills
Enjoy participating in agricultural organizations like 4-H or FFA

Making agricultural connections

Curriculum

The B.S.Ag.L.S. in agricultural science, communication and leadership is a 120- credit program combining coursework and applied learning experiences. Students build technical expertise while gaining hands-on experience in the field.

View the sample four-year plan for this degree.

Explore program courses in the University Catalog.

Learning outcomes

Learn to translate technical and scientific agricultural data into accessible, engaging messages
Explore digital communication strategies to advance agricultural messaging
Gain experience developing and implementing public relations, marketing and media relations campaigns
Cultivate skills in strategic planning and facilitation to lead agribusinesses
Design programs for agricultural literacy, community engagement and government relations

Hands-on learning

Learn at on campus plant science farms, greenhouses and livestock facilities
Help organize and execute FFA events related to leadership and communications
Help produce the CALS student magazine, Rooted
Participate in study abroad to learn about global agricultural issues

Career outcomes

Current job openings

647 in ID, WA, OR, MT and HI

Potential careers and mid-career salaries

Marketing Managers
$155,796
Farm and Home Management Educator
$66,575
Reporters and Journalists
$49,538
Audio and Video Technicians
$59,655

Career Services

* Career data provided by Lightcast.

Clubs

University of Idaho Collegiate FFA supports high school agricultural programs, prepares you for your professional agricultural career and is active in serving local, college and national communities.
Follow the Department of Agricultural Education, Leadership and Communications on Instagram.

Financial aid and scholarships

While paying for college can feel overwhelming, University of Idaho is committed to affordability and clarity about tuition and financial aid. Here are a few key resources to help you understand the cost of your degree and explore available financial support:

Submit your FAFSA: Completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is the first step to accessing federal, state and institutional financial aid.
Estimate your cost of attendance: Use U of I’s Cost Calculator to estimate tuition and other expenses associated with earning your degree.
Discover scholarship opportunities: When you apply to University of Idaho, you’re automatically considered for scholarships. Additional awards are available based on your previous experience, background and anticipated program of study.

If you have any questions about financial aid, scholarships or cost, U of I’s experienced financial aid counselors can help you make informed financial decisions and navigate each part of the process. Reach out to our Financial Aid Office for assistance.

Idaho LAUNCH

This degree is approved for Idaho LAUNCH, a grant that supports Idaho students pursuing high-demand careers. Students enrolling under the 2026–27 Academic Catalog may be eligible for up to $4,000 per year / $8,000 total in scholarship funding through the Idaho LAUNCH program.

Learn about eligibility and application deadlines at nextsteps.idaho.gov/launch, or see our full list of approved U of I programs on the in-state scholarships page.

Application instructions

Undergraduate applications open each September, and admissions are processed on a rolling basis. Qualified students are admitted and considered for scholarships and financial aid as applications are received.

Explore admission requirements and apply on our Admissions website.