Agriculture
Ten Career Paths in Agriculture
Agriculture in Iowa isn't one job — it's crops, livestock, land, machinery, business,
and the science behind all of it. Iowa Valley offers ten specialized tracks so you
can build toward the specific career you want, with small classes and hands-on training
at Ellsworth Community College in Iowa Falls.
Not sure which track fits? Talk to an advisor — many students combine general ag coursework
with a specialty as their interests develop.
Within Agriculture, you can choose from a wide range of specialized majors, including:
- Agribusiness - the business side of ag: sales, finance, and management
- Agriculture Science - crops, soil, and the science behind production
- Animal Science - livestock health, nutrition, and management
- Beef Management - cattle production and herd management
- Conservation Technology - land, water, and natural resource management
- Equine Management/Science - horse care, training, and facility management at the Ellsworth Equestrian Center
- Farm Management - running a farm operation, from planning to profitability
- Pre-Vet - foundational coursework for students transferring into veterinary school
- Precision Agriculture - GPS, sensors, and data-driven farming technology
- Swine Management - hog production and herd health
FAQs
Do I need a farming background to enroll in an agriculture program?
No. Programs are designed for students with any background, including those without
prior farm experience.
Is there scholarship money specifically for agriculture students?
Yes. Incoming students in an eligible ag program can apply for the Bob and Arlene
Hamilton Excellence in Agriculture Scholarship, worth $5,000 — nearly a full year's
tuition and fees.