Does farming or ranching define who you are? Do you long for a career that will enable you to enjoy a rural agricultural lifestyle? Do you want to be the one who makes a meaningful difference in improving agri-food production, marketing and trade?
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Agricultural studies delves into the relationships between the social, economic, political and environmental factors that affect the agricultural sector — from farm-level production to international policy.
This unique program focuses on both the art and the science of agricultural practices from theoretical and applied perspectives, including extensive lab experience and special emphasis on current issues and cutting-edge research.
As an agricultural studies student, you will develop an expansive breadth and depth of knowledge in all things agriculture. Firmly grounded in the humanities and natural and social sciences, this liberal education approach ensures comprehensive, multi-faceted exposure to the study of agriculture and agri-food.
As a multidisciplinary major, agricultural studies takes full advantage of resources and course offerings in the Departments of Biological Sciences, Chemistry & Biochemistry, Geography & Environment and Economics.
This broad range of perspectives will expand your understanding of issues such as policy development, the farm as a production unit and the environmental implications of land use. You’ll also be exposed to the latest developments in genetic engineering, precision farming and animal nutrition, to name just a few.
Student Clubs. The Agricultural Students’ Society has an active presence on campus, organizing a number of events including tours of local ag-based businesses and research facilities — offering you invaluable fellowship and learning opportunities.
Agricultural Studies Degrees. You can complete a Bachelor of Arts (BA) or Bachelor of Science (BSc) in agricultural studies in one of two ways: by direct enrolment in the program or as a Post-Diploma BSc. In either program, you will be required to attend a technical studies semester at Olds College (or an approved equivalent). This is typically taken in the spring of your third year and will include courses in soil, plant and animal science, as well as agricultural management.
• Bachelor of Arts: The BA program is a theory-based, 40-course degree with two sub-fields: agricultural economics or general studies. This program focuses on topics like agricultural economics, agricultural geography, regional development, rural communities, public policy and environmental issues. You may also opt for a concentration in agricultural business.
• Bachelor of Science: The BSc program is a comprehensive, science-based 40-course degree focusing on topics such as soils, irrigation, climate and geographical information science (GIS), as well as the sub-fields of biology or geography. You can also declare a concentration in GIS or agricultural business.
• Post-Diploma Degrees: If you already have an approved college diploma, this two-year BA or BSc program will enhance your previous training with extensive theoretical knowledge. You may also declare a concentration in agricultural business (BA or BSc) or GIS (BSc only).
Agricultural Studies Courses. Course selections for the program will vary, but may include:
• Animal & Plant Physiology
• Genetics
• Agricultural Policy
• Ecology
• Microbiology
• Economic Geography
• Biotechnology
• Weather & Climate
• Agricultural Geography
• Soils & Irrigation
• Environmental Economics
• Resource Management
• Geographic Information Systems
• Agricultural Markets
Alberta Institute of Agrologists (AIA). Once you have completed your degree, you may apply to the Alberta Institute of Agrologists (AIA) to be registered as a Professional Agrologist within Alberta. Contact us early in your degree for further information.
Faculty members in all participating departments are happy to involve undergraduate students in their research, using state-of-the-art facilities and equipment. Our faculty members often collaborate with other departments, community members and employers on research projects — giving you the opportunity to get additional hands-on experience.
Our location’s strong farming and ranching economy offers the opportunity to experience the practical application of agricultural research and methodology. You may have the opportunity to participate in field studies or gain employment with local researchers at Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, Lethbridge Research Centre, the Animal Disease Research Institute, Lethbridge College and numerous agriculturally based businesses throughout Southern Alberta.
Current Research & Areas of Interest:
• Livestock Production, Marketing & Trade
• Grain & Oilseed Production, Marketing & Trade
• Property Rights & Natural Resource Stewardship
• Water Supplies & Competing Demands
• Farm Business Management
• Government Interventionism in Agri-Food Markets
• Economics of Food Safety, Quality & Health
• Agriculture, Development & Food Security
• Innovation & Entrepreneurship in Agri-Business
• Agricultural Bio-Technology
Skills Acquired. In addition to developing exceptional communication skills, you will develop critical and analytical problem-solving skills, as well as research and information management skills. You will also improve your attention to detail, increasing your ability to read and discern important yet subtle differences in information. You will leave the program with a strong ability to summarize research findings, excellent fieldwork and risk assessment techniques, as well as in-depth knowledge of agricultural issues.
Related Fields. Graduates of the program may pursue careers in areas such as:
BA Program
• Marketing & Technical Advisory Services
• Farm Commodity Marketing Services
• Animal & Plant Production Management
• Resource Management
• Trade Development
• Agribusiness Consultation
• Agronomy
• Land Development Industries
BSc Program
• Entomology
• Plant Science
• Agricultural Engineering
• Horticulture
• Animal Science
• Agricultural Product Inspection
Graduate Studies. The University of Lethbridge’s School of Graduate Studies offers graduate programs at the Master and Doctoral levels, spanning over 60 disciplines — so why not consider pursuing grad school right here in Lethbridge! Whether you choose to do your advanced studies at uLethbridge or another institution, know that your undergraduate degree has set you on the path to post-graduate success.
Professional Disciplines. Your undergraduate degree in agricultural studies provides an excellent foundation for environmental law, management and education.
“The U of L has taught me how to think critically, which is very useful in the field of agriculture.”
- Adam, Agricultural Studies
Whether you’re looking for a more in-depth learning experience by assisting with research projects or by testing your knowledge in a real-life setting, we can help. Combined with your required coursework, the opportunities outlined below will provide you with a solid foundation for further studies and an excellent framework for a challenging and rewarding career — whatever direction you decide to go.
Earn course credit for career-related paid, volunteer or community service work experience. This program is specially designed to allow you to integrate principles learned in the classroom in a practical work setting.
For more information, visit: ulethbridge.ca/appliedstudies
ULethbridge is proud to offer you the chance to participate in co-op. Co-op allows you to gain work experience directly related to your studies and make invaluable contacts in the workforce, all while earning a competitive salary. Completion of the program allows you to receive a co-op designation on your degree and, most importantly, a kickstart to your career the minute you graduate.
For more information, visit: ulethbridge.ca/coop
In addition to your regular courses, you can contribute to departmental research activities. For example, you can complete an independent study course or gain employment as a research assistant. If your GPA is high enough, you can also enrol in undergraduate thesis-based courses where research is a component of your studies.
Contact your department to learn more!
Your decision to explore a university education is the first step toward a great future — now let us help you navigate your degree options at ULethbridge and set you on the road to success. Do you have questions about what field of study best suits you? Would you like help with program and registration planning and just can’t find the answers? If so, you should speak to an academic advisor today — advisors have the answers to these questions and many more.
To learn more about the support services available to you through our academic advisors, visit: ulethbridge.ca/artsci/advising