Major Decisions, Minor Options

For some students, tradition plays a big part in their selection of a major in Penn State’s College of Agricultural Sciences. They come from family-run farms or animal-breeding businesses and they are well aware of the academic excellence the college offers. They know that completion of a degree in the ag sciences will help prepare them to run the farm or one day own their own business. For them, it’s a no-brainer.

But, by far, most students—more than 85 percent—who come to the college are not from agricultural backgrounds. And many students seeking a science-based education aren’t even aware of the wealth of options and potential professions available through an education in the agricultural sciences. To their detriment, they end up choosing a different curriculum and perhaps missing an opportunity.

Teaching, research, marketing, management and technology are just a few of the areas for which a major in the ag sciences can prepare a student, according to J. Marcos Fernandez, associate dean for undergraduate education in the college. In addition, the option to pursue a dual major can increase the possibilities for education and employment.

The College of Agricultural Sciences offers 20 majors in specific academic programs.