Bachelor of Science in Agriculture (Agricultural Communication)

Bachelor's

Bachelor of Science in Agriculture (Agricultural Communication)

Hours: 120 On-Campus Online

About

As the demand for clear communication and effective leadership continues to grow, the Bachelor of Science in Agriculture (Agricultural Communication) program at Fort Hays State University addresses this need by integrating essential skills across disciplines. The program combines a strong theoretical foundation in production agriculture with hands-on experience in public relations, professional writing, and digital media production.

Students in this specialization develop the ability to communicate complex agricultural concepts to diverse audiences with clarity and impact. Through focused coursework and practical applications, they are well-prepared to pursue a wide range of career opportunities in agricultural education, media, advocacy, and industry communication roles.

Why pursue a Bachelor of Science in Agriculture (Agricultural Communication) at Fort Hays State University?

The Bachelor of Science in Agriculture (Agricultural Communication) program prepares students with a strong foundation in agricultural science and the communication skills essential for success in today’s evolving industry. Through a combination of academic knowledge and practical experience, students learn to effectively convey complex agricultural concepts across various platforms and audiences. Graduates emerge ready to enter the agricultural sector with confidence, professionalism, and the ability to make a meaningful impact.

Who is this program for?

Throughout the program, students engage in a comprehensive curriculum that spans key areas of agriculture, communication, and media. This well-rounded approach makes the program an excellent fit for individuals with a wide range of interests and career goals. It is ideal for:

Agricultural communicators of tomorrow
Students who want to make a difference in the world
Students with a strong interest in agriculture
Individuals who are team players
Advocates for sustainable practices

Learning Outcomes

The B.S. in Agriculture (Agricultural Communication) program equips students with essential skills in communication, leadership, and agricultural technology, preparing them to excel in their chosen career paths. Graduates will be capable of conveying complex agricultural information to diverse audiences, managing strategic communication campaigns, and leading teams toward shared goals. Upon completing this program, students will demonstrate the following learning outcomes:

Sharpened Communication Skills

Students develop strong communication abilities by learning to craft compelling narratives, deliver impactful presentations, and create engaging media content. They also gain the skill to adapt their messaging to suit specific audiences, enabling them to effectively communicate complex agricultural information to a wide range of stakeholders.

Interdisciplinary Expertise Integration

The program distinguishes itself by seamlessly combining theoretical foundations in production agriculture with practical training in public relations, writing, and digital media production. This interdisciplinary approach ensures that graduates not only have a strong grasp of agricultural communication but also a well-rounded understanding of the interconnected fields that shape the industry.

Demonstrated Leadership Prowess

Throughout the program, students in the agricultural communication major actively develop their leadership abilities. They learn to motivate and inspire others, collaborate effectively within teams, and foster a positive working environment. Graduates gain the skills needed to build consensus, manage conflict, and guide teams toward achieving shared objectives.

Collaborative Learning Environment

Students engage in collaborative projects alongside peers from diverse backgrounds and academic disciplines, creating a dynamic and inclusive learning environment. This experience strengthens their teamwork abilities and helps them build valuable professional networks—key assets for success in the highly collaborative agricultural industry.

Real-World Applications

Real-world applications play a vital role in the learning process by helping students understand how theoretical concepts are applied in practical agricultural contexts. The curriculum is designed to provide a strong academic foundation while integrating hands-on experiences. Through a combination of theoretical knowledge and practical projects, students gain the insights and skills necessary for effective communication within the agricultural industry. This approach ensures they can confidently apply what they learn in the classroom to real-world situations.

Stay Ahead of the Curve

The curriculum is continuously updated to stay aligned with current trends and innovative engagement strategies in agricultural communication. Recognizing the importance of connectivity in today’s digital age, the program equips students to harness the power of various communication platforms effectively. Emphasis is placed on mastering social media and other digital tools to reach diverse audiences, as well as on developing strong relationships with media outlets and key stakeholders.

Hands-on Activities

A key differentiator of the B.S. in Agriculture (Agricultural Communication) program is its strong emphasis on project-based learning, which enables students to acquire practical skills highly valued by employers. For example, students collaborate to create the department newsletter, engaging in writing, editing, and design tasks. This hands-on experience helps them enhance both their communication and graphic design abilities.

What You’ll Learn:

Cultivate communication skills that are essential for navigating the agricultural industry
Enhance writing and digital media production skills
Develop a broader understanding of agriculture and leadership
Hone public relations expertise for effective communication
Knowledge of the latest advancements

How You’ll Learn:

Gain insights through theoretical knowledge and practical applications
Emphasize project-based learning experiences
Stay up to date with emerging digital platforms and innovative communication strategies
Focus on intricate communication of complex agricultural information
Participate in internships and practicums

Courses

The B.S. in Agriculture (Agricultural Communication) program develops the skills and knowledge necessary to address complex agricultural issues with clarity and impact. The curriculum is designed to help students build a diverse portfolio of work, including technical writing, feature stories, and news articles. These pieces are created for use across a range of communication platforms, from traditional print media to modern digital and social media channels.

AGRI 332: Agricultural Communications and Public Relations

A study of history, role in society, and the role of communications in agriculture. This course provides an understanding of communication and various communication methods in modern society, as these are applicable to agriculture.

COMM 345: Visual and Creative Designs

Study and applications of desktop publishing technology and publication design.

COMM 642: Crisis Management and Strategies

A study of the factors in crisis situations, including the development of crisis plans, handling of the media, coordination of internal disciplines, collection and dissemination of information, and restoration of public confidence. Crisis theories and the design and use of written and oral strategies will be examined.

Discover the full B.S. in Agriculture (Agricultural Communication) course listing by visiting the Academic Catalog.

Career Prospects

As students strengthen their foundation in communication and leadership, they become well-prepared to make meaningful contributions across a variety of sectors. Graduates are equipped to pursue diverse career opportunities in the agricultural industry, government agencies, media organizations, and beyond.

Public Relations Specialist

Public relations specialists in the agricultural industry communicate key trends and developments to the media and public. Their duties often include managing social media, organizing media events, and writing press releases to promote agricultural organizations or initiatives.

Trade Association Representative

Trade association representatives advocate for specific agricultural sectors, such as corn or soybeans. They educate the public, promote industry benefits, lobby policymakers, and may also organize events or conduct industry-related research.

Corporate Communications Specialist

Corporate communications specialists with agricultural knowledge share information about company initiatives, sustainability efforts, and products. Their goal is to build and maintain positive relationships between agribusinesses and their stakeholders.

Livestock Breed Association Representative

Livestock breed association representatives promote and protect specific livestock breeds. Their responsibilities may include writing educational and marketing materials, as well as organizing breed-related events.

Editorial Content Developer

Graduates in agricultural communication are well-prepared to create content for farm organizations, including newsletters, blogs, and educational materials. They use their agricultural knowledge to deliver informative and engaging content to members.

The Best Value in Higher Education Anywhere

Fort Hays State University prides itself on quality education at an affordable price. Students in this program can expect to pay approximately $3,055.95* (on-campus) or $3,975.75* (online) per semester.

*Estimated cost based on 15 credit hours at the Undergrad resident/regional tuition rate ($203.73/credit hour) for on-campus courses, or the FHSU Online Undergrad tuition rate (265.05/credit hour) for online courses. Actual price may vary depending on course load and location. Tuition and Fees are subject to change as they are approved by the Kansas Board of Regents each year.

Ready for the next step?

Our faculty would be excited to talk to you about how our department programs can help you explore your interests and prepare you for a variety of rewarding careers.

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Related Programs

The B.S. in Agriculture (Agricultural Communication) program provides a focused path for students passionate about agricultural communication. In addition, FHSU offers related programs that deliver complementary skills and knowledge. For those pursuing agricultural careers, the following alternatives are available:

FAQ

What are the career options with a B.S. in Agriculture (Agricultural Communications)?

Graduates can pursue a range of careers in the agricultural industry. Some specific job titles may include a public relations specialist, editorial content developer, corporate communications specialist, and more.

Are there opportunities for internships, practical experience, or cooperative education within the program?

The program has several internships, practical experience, and cooperative education opportunities. FHSU has strong relationships with many organizations and outlets, providing students with various opportunities to gain hands-on experience.

Is the agricultural industry a profitable field of study?

The agricultural industry is large and growing, and there is a demand for skilled communicators. It is a major economic driver in the United States.

How long does it typically take to complete the program, and are there part-time or online options available for flexibility?

The degree typically takes four years to complete and can be completed fully online, allowing students to pursue the degree at their own pace.

What academic and technical support services are available to students, particularly those studying online or part-time?

We offer several academic and technical support services to help students: the writing and communication center, free tutoring, and Career Development.

Information about the Department of Agriculture

FHSU’s Department of Agriculture sustains the vitality of our country’s agricultural future by keeping America’s agricultural traditions and technologies thriving through career-centered, hands-on programs. Our applied, hands-on learning and foundational courses empower students to succeed in the growing agricultural industry, making them marketable and equipped to meet industry challenges, innovate, and conserve. Our students benefit from practical experiences on our 3,825-acre farm, leadership and presentation skill development, critical thinking and communication skills enhancement, and lifelong friendships and mentorships.

Our graduates succeed in various careers including running farms, managing feed yards, trading grain on the futures market, educating the next generation of agriculturalists, working as crop consultants, and leading in agribusiness corporations. With an excellent academic program and a network of alumni, you will be prepared for an exciting and rewarding career in the agricultural industry.

Student Organizations

Agricultural Communication

Bachelor's

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