Department of Agricultural Sciences and Technology

Why Agricultural Sciences?

Agriculture is considered a science, an art, and most importantly a national treasure. Today, we are looking for students interested in pursuing a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree in Agricultural Sciences with a concentration in Agri-business, Agricultural Economics, Animal Science, Plant and Soil Sciences, or Pre-Veterinary Medicine. These program offerings are a central part of STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Agriculture, and Mathematics).

Our programs prepare students for an array of over 100 career opportunities both domestic and international. Our career placement is over 95% for top-performing students. Nationwide, over 40% of all college graduates work in agriculture or related areas. Graduates of the program have a high job placement rate in our nation's varied workforce. The various areas include: USDA private industry, educators, research scientists, animal and human healthcare, and extension and outreach, while others may pursue advanced degrees (M.S. & Ph.D.).

Agricultural Economics

Agricultural Economics is an applied field of economics concerned with the application of economic theory in optimizing the production and distribution of food and fiber—a discipline known as agricultural economics. Agricultural economic classes focus on economic and financial principles. Combined with agricultural science classes, these courses analyze issues in agriculture, business, government, and many other areas. Students will gain skills in planning, evaluation, and management.

Agri Business

The Agribusiness program prepares students for professional careers in agribusiness marketing, management and finance through combining in-depth business concepts with real world application to the food and fiber industry. Agribusinesses process and market food and fiber products, supply inputs to agricultural production and manage agricultural production. Agribusiness majors learn economic principles and strategies for agribusiness marketing and management.

Animal Sciences

Animal Sciences offers education and research for the safe, nutritious and economical production of animal food and fiber, and of animals for recreational purposes, without compromising the environment or jeopardizing the health and well-being of farm animals and farm communities. We provide educational leadership through high-quality courses, research and extension/outreach programs to enhance human capital and ensure that Louisiana producers and communities benefit from these. Animal Science majors will learn from internationally recognized professors in all aspects of domestic animal biology: breeding, genetics, nutrition, physiology, growth, behavior, and management. Our research programs advance our understanding of animal biology and address local and global issues facing animal industries today. Students will discover and develop new techniques and information to benefit animals, agriculture, and human health.

Plant and Soil Sciences

The Plant and Soil Science program offer career options in the fields of agronomy, environmental soil science and horticulture. Through rigorous coursework and research, students learn the importance of farmland preservation, improving crop production, increasing crop nutrition for human health and enhancing crops through genetic engineering. Graduates find employment in diverse areas including federal and state government agencies, farm managers, greenhouse industry, research and engineering firms, chemical and biotechnology companies.

Pre-Veterinary Medicine

Pre-veterinary is the course of study a student takes to prepare for admission to veterinary medical school. This concentration is a guiding principle for your education designed to increase your chances for admission to veterinary schools. To apply for veterinary school, meet with a pre-vet advisor early in the freshman year.

Click here to find out more about studying in the Department of Agricultural Sciences and Technology at Southern University.