How to Become an Agronomist

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Ready to apply?

Step 1. Apply to Iowa State University.
• ISU Admissions
• Application Checklist

Step 2. Join the Agronomy community.
• Agronomy Learning Community
• Agronomy Club

Step 3. Complete the courses required for the Agronomy major. The Agronomy faculty at ISU have designed a curriculum that is both flexible and provides students with the skills they need for successful careers.
• Degree requirements

Students can specialize by choosing one of four advising options:

• Agroecology,
• Crop Management & Business,
• Plant Breeding & Biotechnology,
• Soil Science & Environmental Quality.
  
  
• More info about Agronomy options

The World Needs Agronomists

More imminent than the direct effects of global warming, the inability of food and fuel production to keep up with the demands of a growing population threatens the quality of life for everyone and the survival of those on the fringes. Agronomy is the science of the resources we get from plants and the environment that they need to grow. The integrated approach that agronomists use to manage these systems is critical to maintaining sustainable societies.

This vital need for well-trained agronomists has translated to high demand for our graduates. This is reflected in Agronomy majors consistently having a 97 to 100% job placement rate.

More about Agronomy careers...

More about the undergraduate program...

Quick Links
(Resources for Future Agronomists)

• Curriculum (degree requirements)
• Curriculum Options for specialization

• Agronomy Scholarships
• College of Agriculture & Life Sciences Scholarships

• 4-year course plan
• Transfer Guides
• Agronomy Courses
• Travel Courses
• Views into Agronomy student life:
  • Video Library
  • Photo Album
    

World Class Faculty

The agronomy faculty have outstanding international reputations for their teaching, research, and service. You will interact with the faculty both in and outside the classroom. An Agronomy professor who has an interest in your educational development, achievements, and personal goals will serve as your adviser.

The following are some recent recognitions of faculty's teaching and advising achievements:

• Dr. Manu was named the nation's first George Washington Carver Chair.
• Dr. Mullen has been recognized by the Crop Science Society of America for teaching excellence.
• Dr. Wiedenhoeft has been recognized by the Agronomy Society of America for her outstanding teaching.
• Dr. Burras has been recognized by the university with the Academic Advising Award.

see all of the ISU Agronomy faculty ...

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