Minor in Agronomy

Hours: 20 On-Campus

About

The Minor in Agronomy at Fort Hays State University provides students with a comprehensive foundation in crop and soil sciences, focusing on the growth and development of crops, as well as soil health and fertility. This program is ideal for students who wish to specialize in agronomy without making it their major. It covers a range of topics such as soil conservation, weed science, agronomic crop insects and diseases, forages, horticulture, and more.

The curriculum is designed to complement students' primary fields of study, equipping them with valuable knowledge and skills in agronomy. Students will gain both theoretical insights and practical experience, preparing them for careers in agriculture, environmental management, and related industries. This minor is a great option for students passionate about the science of farming and land management, offering a well-rounded education that enhances career prospects in crop production, environmental sustainability, and beyond.

Why pursue a Minor in Agronomy at Fort Hays State University?

FHSU’s Minor in Agronomy offers students a unique opportunity to gain specialized crop and soil sciences knowledge while complementing their primary field of study. Our minor allows students to explore diverse topics such as soil conservation, weed science, agronomic crop insects and diseases, and horticulture, providing a well-rounded education in agronomy without the need to major in it. By pursuing this minor, students can enhance their academic profile and open doors to a variety of career opportunities in agriculture and related fields.

Fort Hays State University emphasizes hands-on, practical learning experiences, giving students the chance to apply classroom knowledge in real-world settings. With access to state-of-the-art facilities and expert faculty, students gain valuable insights into current industry trends and practices, ensuring they are well-prepared to tackle the challenges of modern agriculture. This minor not only equips students with essential skills but also provides them with a competitive edge in the job market, making it a valuable addition to any academic pursuit.

Who is this program for?

The Minor in Agronomy at FHSU is ideal for students who want to enhance their primary field of study with specialized crop and soil sciences knowledge. This program is perfect for those passionate about agriculture, environmental sustainability, and land management. Whether you're interested in crop production, soil health, or sustainable farming practices, the Minor in Agronomy offers a unique opportunity to broaden your understanding and open doors to diverse career opportunities in agriculture and related industries.

Those with an interest in crop production and soil health
Individuals seeking hands-on learning experiences in agricultural sciences
Students aiming for careers in agriculture, environmental management, or sustainability
Learners wanting to complement their major with specialized knowledge in agronomy
Those passionate about sustainable farming practices and land management

Learning Outcomes

With our adaptable curriculum, you'll hone skills tailored to your interests and aspirations, ensuring your success in the sector. Here are some results, for instance.

Problem-Solving Proficiency in Crop Management

Students in the program will develop an ability to address complex challenges in crop management. The curriculum emphasizes practical expertise in areas such as crop consulting, organic chemistry, and soil management, equipping students with the knowledge and skills needed to navigate and contribute to advancements in the dynamic field of agriculture.

Foundational Understanding of Soil Sciences

The Minor in Agronomy provides students with a foundation in soil science through courses that integrate general chemistry, quantitative reasoning, and practical applications. This comprehensive knowledge is essential for students seeking careers in soil management or related fields.

Preparation for Varied Careers

The program equips students with diverse career opportunities in commercial enterprises, consulting, and chemical industries. The curriculum is designed to accommodate varying individual interests and career goals, providing a tailored education that prepares students for success in the agricultural sector.

Effective Communication Skills

The Minor in Agronomy emphasizes the development of strong communication skills, recognizing their importance in fostering effective interactions with colleagues, clients, and peers. This focus on communication is integrated into practical learning experiences, ensuring that students are well-prepared to engage professionally and collaborate effectively in diverse settings.

Real-World Applications

The Minor in Agronomy offers students valuable, hands-on experiences that translate directly into real-world applications within the agricultural industry. students gain a strong understanding of the factors that influence crop production, soil health, and sustainability through courses providing essential theoretical background while emphasizing practical techniques used in the field, such as soil testing, pest management, and crop rotation strategies.

In addition to classroom learning, students engage in experiential opportunities like field studies. Whether analyzing soil samples, developing sustainable farming practices, or working on crop management strategies, these hands-on activities ensure that students are well-prepared for agronomy, environmental consulting, and agricultural research careers. The Minor in Agronomy equips students with the practical skills and insights needed to make a tangible impact on the agricultural industry, contributing to the development of innovative solutions for global food security and environmental sustainability.

Stay Ahead of the Curve

Our Minor in Agronomy program provides direct engagement with consulting companies and hands-on crop consulting, offering students invaluable experience and industry connections. Students are equipped with cutting-edge knowledge and practical skills that are highly sought after in the agricultural sector by emphasizing real-world applications such as soil testing, pest management, and sustainable farming practices.

Through commitment to research and development, our students are exposed to the latest advancements in crop and soil sciences, preparing them to address the challenges of modern agriculture. Whether working on innovative farming techniques, soil conservation strategies, or crop health monitoring, the program ensures that students are skilled, adaptable, and forward-thinking professionals ready to impact the agricultural industry significantly.

Hands-on Activities

The Minor in Agronomy at Fort Hays State University emphasizes experiential learning through a variety of hands-on activities that prepare students for successful careers in agriculture. Students engage in practical experiences such as soil testing, pest management, and crop rotation strategies, which help them apply theoretical knowledge in real-world agricultural settings. These activities provide students with tools to address key crop production and land management challenges. By working directly with crops, soil, and sustainable farming practices, students are equipped with the knowledge and expertise to positively impact the agricultural sector and advance global food security and environmental sustainability.

What You’ll Learn:

Techniques for soil testing and analysis to assess soil health and fertility
Effective pest management and integrated crop protection strategies
Principles of sustainable farming practices and crop rotation methods
Insights into agronomic crop diseases and insect management
Development of practical skills in field studies and hands-on crop management

How You’ll Learn:

Participate in soil testing, pest management, and crop rotation fieldwork
Attend interactive lectures and apply concepts through real-world case studies
Conduct field studies and research projects to develop practical skills
Collaborate with industry professionals and peers during research initiatives
Enhance learning through guided field trips and exposure to agricultural practices

Courses

The Minor in Agronomy at FHSU offers a comprehensive curriculum designed to provide students with a strong foundation in crop and soil sciences. Core courses cover essential topics such as soil health, crop production, pest management, and sustainable farming practices. In addition to the foundational courses, students can explore specialized subjects such as weed science, horticulture, and agronomic crop diseases. This well-rounded approach enables students to tailor their education to their specific interests, preparing them for diverse career opportunities in agriculture, environmental sustainability, and land management. Below are a few of the courses in the Minor in Agronomy program:

AGRI 215/215L: Soils/Soils Laboratory

This course introduces the fundamentals of soil properties, including physical, chemical, and biological aspects, along with soil development, classification, distribution, and management. It includes three 1-hour lectures and a 2-hour weekly laboratory focused on determining these properties.

AGRI 426: Agronomic Crop Production

This course covers agronomic crop production in Kansas and the Great Plains, focusing on crop consulting and farming practices, including pest identification and irrigation, planting, and harvesting techniques. It includes three hours of lecture and one field trip.

AGRI 621/621L: Weed Science/Laboratory

This course covers the principles and practices of weed control, including weed seed and plant identification, herbicide action, equipment calibration, and safety regulations, including a laboratory component.

Discover the full Minor in Agronomy course listing by visiting the Academic Catalog.

Career Prospects

Fort Hays State University’s Minor in Agronomy provides students with a comprehensive foundation in crop and soil sciences, preparing them for a wide range of career opportunities in agriculture. The program equips students with essential knowledge and practical skills in areas such as soil health, crop management, and sustainable farming practices, enabling them to excel in various roles within the agricultural and environmental sectors.

Soil Health Specialist

With a Minor in Agronomy, you can pursue a career as a soil health specialist. These professionals focus on improving soil fertility and sustainability, advising farmers on best practices for soil conservation, crop rotation, and nutrient management. By applying the principles learned in agronomy courses, they help optimize crop yields while maintaining long-term environmental health.

Agricultural Consultant

As an agricultural consultant, you will utilize your expertise in crop and soil management to provide advice on optimizing farming operations. FHSU graduates in this field offer solutions in areas like pest management, crop disease prevention, and soil health, helping clients improve productivity and sustainability in their agricultural practices.

Sustainability Coordinator

With a focus on environmental stewardship, sustainability coordinators work in both public and private sectors to implement sustainable agricultural practices. A Minor in Agronomy equips you with the knowledge to guide organizations in adopting eco-friendly techniques such as soil conservation, integrated pest management, and sustainable land management practices.

Extension Educator

Minor in Agronomy students can also become extension educators, working with agricultural communities to provide valuable information on crop production, soil health, and best farming practices. They conduct workshops, create educational materials, and support local farmers in implementing the latest agronomy research to improve productivity and sustainability.

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 $2,961.90* (on-campus) per semester.

*Estimated cost based on 15 credit hours at the Undergrad resident/regional tuition rate ($197.46/credit hour) for on-campus 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

Fort Hays State University offers a variety of related programs for students seeking to deepen their expertise in agriculture and related fields. These programs provide valuable opportunities for specialization, equipping students with the advanced knowledge and skills necessary to pursue diverse career paths in agriculture, environmental management, and sustainability.

FAQ

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.

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Agronomy

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