School of Health, Human Services, & Natural Resources

AGRICULTURE

Plant the seeds for your career in agriculture

 

Program Information

Degrees at SCC

A degree in Agriculture from St. Charles Community College will provide you with a diverse foundation in the agricultural sciences. The variety of courses in plant and soil sciences, animal science, natural resources, and agricultural business will prepare you for the next step in your journey.

The Associate of Science degree is designed as a transfer pathway for students who plan to continue their education at a four-year college or university. The curriculum provides a strong foundation in the agricultural sciences, including plant and soil sciences, animal science, natural resources, and agricultural business, ensuring students are well-prepared to transition seamlessly into a bachelor's degree program. The coursework emphasizes both hands-on and experiential learning across a variety of environments — from the classroom, greenhouse, and fields to Busch Wildlife — giving students real-world experience that will serve them well at the university level and beyond. Graduates of the AS program are equipped to pursue bachelor's degrees in a wide range of agriculture-related fields, including agronomy, agricultural business, environmental science, animal science, and more, at any of the many universities offering four-year agriculture programs.

The Associate of Applied Science degree is designed to provide a comprehensive education in agriculture, combined with general education courses, to prepare you to enter the agriculture industry upon graduation. This degree emphasizes applied, career-ready skills and is offered with two distinct areas of focus — Agricultural Business and Horticulture Production and Management — allowing you to tailor your education to your specific interests and career goals. The Agricultural Business focus prepares students for roles in farm management, agribusiness operations, marketing, and related fields, while the Horticulture Production and Management focus equips students with the skills needed for careers in crop and plant production, greenhouse and nursery management, and landscape operations. Both pathways are designed for students who want to move directly into the workforce and make an immediate impact in their chosen field. Graduates of the AAS program are well-positioned to pursue rewarding careers across a wide range of agriculture and horticulture industries in the region and beyond.

Studying Agriculture at SCC

Agriculture is one of the most diverse career fields in the U.S., and employers in the industry need well-prepared employees. Demand for individuals with interest and expertise in agriculture, food, natural resources, sustainability, and the environment is strong. The USDA predicts over 104,000 annual job openings in the agriculture, food, and natural resources sector and 90% of these positions will require at least and associate's degree.  These careers span a diverse array of agriculture, including 1) Business and Management, 2) Science and Engineering, 3) Food and Biomaterials Production, and 4) Education, Communication and Governmental Services.

Studying Agriculture at SCC helps prepare you for these high-demand careers, from field and farm production to technical research support, natural resources management, and employment in a broad spectrum of agribusinesses. SCC's Agriculture program combines classroom instruction with practical, applied learning to ensure students are workforce-ready upon graduation. Whether you are pursuing a career in crop science, agricultural business, food systems, or environmental stewardship, SCC provides the knowledge, skills, and industry connections to help you succeed. Many of our graduates go on to rewarding careers in the region or transfer seamlessly to bachelor's degree programs at four-year colleges and universities.

 
 

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