Students learning from teacher in classroom.
Agricultural and Food Systems

Agricultural Education

Combining the best of both agriculture and teaching, this major prepares students to educate the next generation of agricultural leaders and consumers.
CAHNRS > Academics > Undergraduate Programs > Agricultural Education

Explore the Possibilities

A major in Ag Ed will lead you to endless career opportunities with a global reach.

While most graduates work in schools or in post-secondary settings, many pursue careers in other areas. Ag Ed graduates have a background in communications, agriculture, leadership, and human relations— ultimately preparing them for careers in education, advocacy, public relations, policy, agricultural business, and allied industries.

AFS Degree

The Agricultural and Food Systems degree focuses on vital aspects of food systems ranging from plant and animal production to agricultural markets, sustainability, and access to healthy food. In AFS, you will learn the science informing practice, policy, and consumer behavior in a wide range of careers in agriculture and food systems. 

Contact

509-335-9502
cahnrs.majors@wsu.edu

AFS website

Career Opportunities

  • Middle or High school Ag Science Teacher
  • FFA advisor
  • Career and Technical Education Director
  • 4-H Youth or Agricultural Education Director
  • Community Outreach and Education Director
  • Adult Education Instructor
  • Public Relations, Customer Service, or Sales
  • Government Agency Employee
  • Peace Crops Volunteer
  • Non-profit Organization Employee
  • Agricultural Industry Employee
Young scientist holding tray with seedlings above microscope in greenhouse. Plant protection and biotechnology concept.

Quick Facts

$70,000 Average starting salary of Ag Ed graduates
$28,000 Awarded annually in scholarships
99% Find immediate employment
16:1 Student to faculty ratio

Major Requirements

Minimum Total Credits: 136 credits

Your program may include different courses. Consult with your advisor about the best combination and order of courses for you. Visit the WSU Catalog for a list of required courses for this major and course descriptions.

General Education Requirements: 40 credits

AFS Core Requirements: 26 credits

  • AFS 201: System Skills Development for AFS – 3 credits
  • ANIM_SCI 101: Intro to Animal Science or FS 110: Intro to Food Science – 3 credits
  • BIOLOGY 106: Intro to Organismal Biology, BIOLOGY 107: Cell Biology & Genetics, or BIOLOGY 120: Botany –  3 credits
  • CHEM 102: Principles of Chemistry II – 3 credits
  • CROP_SCI/HORT 102: Cultivated Plants – 3 credits
  • ECONS 350: Intro to Farm & Ranch Management or ECONS 352: Business Management Economics – 3 credits
  • SOIL_SCI 201: Soil: A Living System – 3 credits
  • System Based Courses – 3 credits

Ag Ed Core Requirements: 55 credits

  • AG_ED 110: Intro to Ag Education – 2 credits
  • AG_ED 440: Principles of Career & Technical Education – 2 credits
  • AG_ED 450: Planning, Curriculum, & Techniques in Ag Education – 3 credits
  • AG_ED 471: Student Organizations in Ag Education – 2 credits
  • AG_ED 407: Student Teaching – 8 credits
  • AGTM 201: Metal Fabrication – 3 credits
  • AGTM 402: Methods, Materials & Machine for Teaching Ag Mech – 3 credits
  • ED_PSYCH 468: Classroom Assessment – 3 credits
  • TCH_LRN 301: Learning & Development – 3 credits
  • TCH_LRN 317: Initial Practicum Experience – 2 credits
  • TCH_LRN 415: Student Teaching – 8 credits
  • TCH_LRN 464: Curriculum, Instruction, & Content Methods – 3 credits
  • TCH_LRN 465: Culture & Community Context of Education – 3 credits
  • TCH_LRN 466: Secondary Methods of Ed Technology – 2 credits
  • TCH_LRN 467: Diversity, Classroom Life & Management – 3 credits
  • TCH_LRN 469: Adv. Practicum – 2 credits
  • LRN 470: ESL/Special Education Methods – 3 credits

Upper Division Agriculture Electives: 13-22 credits

Agricultural Education lets you dabble in a bit of every topic needed for the classroom. These topics range from crop science and biology to teaching and learning courses. We get to educate the next generation.

Nicole Snyder, Ag Teacher, Castle Rock High School