Agronomy is the study of soils and field crops. The Agronomy major emphasizes the production, management and use of row crops and forages. The program also evaluates principles of soil development, classification and management practices needed to conserve the soil, protect the environment from soil pollution and improve nutrient supplies to plants. Identification and control of weeds, insects and diseases that affect field crops are integral parts of the agronomy major. A Bachelor of Science degree with an Agronomy major qualifies students for challenging careers in numerous areas. Graduates are employed in farm and range management and crop consulting companies; sales and marketing of equipment and agriculture products; seed, fertilizer, chemical and pesticide industries; and in local, state and federal government agencies.

A Bachelor of Science degree with an Agronomy major at Missouri State requires 125 hours, including 44 to 49 hours of general education requirements, 56 to 58 hours of agriculture and 18 to 20 hours of science and mathematics. Students should consult with their academic advisors in the Department of Agriculture to plan and select courses.

High school students can best prepare themselves for this program by taking agriculture and other science courses (chemistry, biology, math and earth science). In addition, good communication skills are essential. Students are encouraged to take courses and participate in activities that develop reading, writing and speaking skills.

Please consult the Missouri State Catalog online at www.missouristate.edu/catalog for specific course descriptions.

• Crop and Soil Science
• Soils
• Soil Conservation and Water Management
• Soil Survey and Interpretation
• Grain Crops
• Forage Crops
• Soil Fertility and Plant Nutrition
• Soil and Crop Management
• Soil Genesis, Morphology & Classification
• Agronomy Seminar
• Weed Control
• Soils and Environmental Interpretation

The Department of Agriculture includes 15 full-time faculty with specific areas of expertise who are available for advisement and consultation. Three of these faculty members advise Agronomy majors and teach the courses in Agronomy.

The program makes extensive use of the William H. Darr Agricultural Center and surrounding farms in conjunction with course laboratory sessions. Many Missouri State Agronomy majors enroll in internships that provide practical experience with agricultural companies or agencies while awarding college credit. Successful completion of an internship may lead to permanent employment. Many student organizations are available for Agronomy majors, including the Agronomy Club, Delta Tau Alpha (honorary agricultural society) and agricultural fraternities/sororities.

Numerous scholarships are available to Agronomy students through the Missouri State University Department of Agriculture. Students may also qualify for university scholarships, such as the Presidential and Governors Scholarships. Federal- or state-sponsored assistance is also available through loans, educational grants and the work-study program.