A student using research equipment to measure hay bale temperatures in a field.

What will I learn in the agricultural science major?

You'll learn how to solve the world's challenges with science

We have growing food down to a science, and there's so much more for you to discover. Learn about where food comes from and how to:

  • Feed the world's growing population,
  • Protect and responsibly use our world's limited resources,
  • Thrive within or run an agriculture-related business,
  • And more.

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You'll launch a rewarding, world-improving career

Through the agricultural science cross-disciplinary major, you'll experience a hands-on, science and business look at the full spectrum of agriculture. You'll graduate with an incredible range of knowledge to draw upon, including in a specialization that matches your professional aspirations and personal interests.

As you study, you'll earn more than a degree. You'll garner the education needed for a long-lasting and rewarding career on the cutting-edge of agriculture.

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Students working with sheep at the College's Main Station Farm.

Your first year

You'll learn by doing from day one, starting with the basics and moving on to your passions.

In your first class, Agricultural Science 100: Elements of Livestock Production, you'll learn about the care, management and economics of food-producing animals. In addition to rangeland livestock production courses like this one, you'll also take course work in a variety of disciplines, such as animal science, wildlife science, soils, botany and ecology. 

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Your lasting experiences

By your last semester, you'll be fully immersed in classes specific to your specialization on topics important to you.

All along the way, you'll gain hands-on experience in classrooms, greenhouses and farms, rangelands, research laboratories, internships, student clubs, and Nevada communities, putting your knowledge to work solving real-world challenges right away.

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Meet your College

The Agricultural Science degree program is offered by the College of Agriculture, Biotechnology & Natural Resources' Department of Agriculture, Veterinary & Rangeland Sciences. We're devoted to providing you with strong, cutting-edge teaching, research and engagement programs.

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Emphases in the agricultural science degree program

You can afford the University of Nevada, Reno

Through the generosity of our many donors and supporters, our College awards over $250,000 in undergraduate and graduate scholarships each year.

Tell me more about your scholarships
A decorated cap at commencement says "Juntos we rise" and is adorned by three daisy-like flowers, one green, one white and one red.
 
Two Agricultural Science students work together under a shade tree on a sunny, blue-sky day to assemble a precision agriculture drone on a Nevada field. In the background is a yellow and John-Deere-green tractor. Snow-capped mountains are in the background.

Careers with a degree in agricultural science

Agricultural scientists are critical to maintaining and developing the food systems that support our society. They work in the field, laboratories and offices in jobs such as: 

  • Farmer or rancher
  • Precision agriculture technician
  • Loan officer or property assessor
  • Agricultural sales or marketing specialist
  • Lobbyist or government agency employee
  • Agricultural field representative or service technician
  • Agricultural Extension agent or high school agriculture teacher
  • Agronomist, environmental specialist, or soil or water conservationist
 
Agricultural Science student, smiling and wearing Nevada cap, cares for a chocolate-colored, white-patched horse in a sunshine-filled barn.

What's my job outlook?

Agriculture is one of the largest employers worldwide, and agricultural scientists are generally well compensated.

In our Agricultural Science degree program, you'll receive the education and experience that'll prepare you for a successful career in a high-demand industry. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects as fast as average job growth for agricultural scientists from 2020 to 2030.

And, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median salary for agricultural scientist in 2021 was $74,160 per year and job positions typically require at least a Bachelor's degree.

Related degree programs

Nutritional Science
Rangeland Ecology & Management
Veterinary Science degree
Wildlife Ecology & Conservation

You can become a world leader

By participating in our University's Honors College while earning your Agricultural Science degree in our College, you'll engage in a series of personalized experiences designed to deepen your capacity to change the world.

Visit the Honors College
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