Agricultural Education

The agricultural education major prepares students to teach at the secondary, post-secondary and adult levels in agricultural education programs. North Dakota State University is designated by the State Board of Career and Technical Education as the recognized institution for preparing teachers of agricultural education.

Agricultural education students begin their preparatory work in the pre-agricultural education program offered through the College of Agriculture, Food Systems, and Natural Resources. After completing their introductory education course (usually during the sophomore year), students may apply to the School of Education to pursue agricultural education.

The Program

The agricultural education major is designed to combine general studies, preparation for effective teaching, and a broad background in the various disciplines in agriculture. Those preparing to become teachers of agriculture are expected to possess a broad general education necessary for them to function as citizens and educators in our dynamic society.  Courses in natural sciences, mathematics, social sciences, humanities, English, communication and speech will help provide a general education and the skills needed for more advanced courses in agriculture and other areas. Courses in agricultural economics, agricultural systems management, animal and range science, plant sciences, horticulture and soil science provide the necessary background in agriculture.  Electives also are available in entomology, veterinary science, plant pathology and cereal science. Skills in organizing, planning, communicating and teaching are developed by taking courses in psychology, sociology, education and a series of other courses in various aspects of agricultural education.

Professional Education Courses

Students may enroll in the 300-level professional education courses before being formally admitted to the School of Education (SOE). Prior to enrolling in the 400-level courses, students must complete the application for admission to the SOE; attain a minimum of a 2.75 grade point average overall in their course work, education courses, and teaching specialty courses; and pass the Core Academic Skills for Educators exam(s).  Requirements for admission can be found at the School of Education website.

Student Teaching

Student teaching is a highlight of the teaching program.  Students will have an opportunity to apply skills acquired in college courses and to learn with the direction and assistance of a successful teacher of agricultural education.

Occupational Experience

An appropriate background of work experience in agriculture is essential for those planning to teach agriculture. Students lacking this experience will need to seek such experience through internships, employment and other means. Cooperative Education experiences are available. A background in high school agriculture and FFA is also helpful, although not required.

Student Advisement

Students are assigned to the faculty member in agricultural education who will work closely in program planning and in other ways to advise and assist them. Students are encouraged to seek their advisors' help whenever needed.

Certification

Upon completing this program, students are eligible for certification to teach agricultural education in most states. The program is accredited by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE).

Career Opportunities

For several years, there have been favorable employment opportunities for those prepared to teach agricultural education. Starting salary depends on employer, location and contract length.  Most agricultural education teachers in North Dakota are on extended contracts and receive stipends for serving as an FFA advisor. Typical starting salaries range from $35,000 to $40,000.  Other graduates seek employment in Cooperative Extension, farming, agricultural finance, agribusiness, and government agencies in agriculture, or continue their studies at the graduate level.

Collegiate FFA Chapter

The primary purpose of the Collegiate FFA Chapter is to prepare graduates in agricultural education to serve as advisors of secondary FFA chapters. Students majoring in agricultural education are encouraged to participate actively in the activities of the NDSU Collegiate FFA Chapter.

Financial Aid and Scholarships

Students seeking financial aid should contact the Office of Financial Aid and Scholarships or One Stop.  To inquire about scholarship opportunities, contact the Office of Admission.  The College of Agriculture, Food Systems, and Natural Resources; the College of Human Development and Education, and the North Dakota FFA Foundation offer scholarships ranging from $500-$1,000.

Plan of Study

Please note this is a sample plan of study and not an official curriculum.  Actual student schedules for each semester will vary depending on start year, education goals, applicable transfer credit, and course availability. Students are encouraged to work with their academic advisor on a regular basis to review degree progress and customize an individual plan of study.