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
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.
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.
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.