List of Agriculture Careers That Require a Master’s Degree

Earn your MA with NMSU Global Campus and acquire the expertise needed for leadership roles in the thriving agricultural sector.

Are you curious about agriculture degree careers? Agriculture is a vital industry that presents diverse career paths, spanning hands-on roles to strategic positions. A master’s degree is crucial for those seeking significant impact. 

This article explores ten types of careers in agriculture, emphasizing those requiring advanced education. Tailored for those considering educational advancements, it highlights opportunities at New Mexico State University Global Campus, showcasing how their master’s program shapes rewarding careers in agriculture.

Considering a Master’s in Agriculture: Is It Right for You?

The decision to pursue a master’s degree in agriculture depends on various factors, including career goals, industry requirements, and personal aspirations. 

While some entry-level positions may only require a bachelor’s degree, obtaining a master’s degree can significantly enhance career prospects, especially for those aiming for leadership, research, or specialized agricultural roles.

10 Careers in Agriculture

This list of agriculture careers gives you a glimpse into a thriving industry with diverse opportunities. From hands-on roles in ag mechanics to strategic positions in agribusiness, this guide unveils ten distinct career paths where advanced education can help those pursuing the best careers in agriculture. Discover what they encompass – job responsibilities, salary range, and their impact on the industry.

Agriculture Mechanics

Agriculture mechanics professionals with a master’s degree advance to high-paying positions ranging from $80,000 to $120,000. 

Roles include technicians who diagnose and repair machinery, coordinators who streamline repair processes, electricians specializing in agricultural machinery and electrical systems, parts managers who oversee spare parts inventory, and specialists who leverage their master’s degree for research and innovation.

Agriculture Engineers

Agriculture engineers with a master’s degree drive innovation in agricultural machinery, earning $70,000 to $100,000 annually. 

Roles in this field include leading design teams as a designer, developing processing methods as a bioprocessing engineer, implementing electrical systems as an electrical engineer, improving food production as a food engineer, and more that may meet your career goals.

Agribusiness

A master’s in agribusiness opens doors to managerial and advisory roles, offering earnings from $90,000 to $130,000 annually. 

Explore diverse positions such as finance for financial management, advisor for strategic guidance, lobbyist for policy advocacy, warehouse manager progressing to supply chain operations, and other related careers that you can pursue.

Agricultural Communications

Agricultural communications professionals excel in roles like account manager, farm news journalist, and public relations representative, promoting agricultural products and maintaining positive public images. 

Salaries range from $40,000 to $90,000 annually, with roles requiring relevant bachelor’s degrees in fields like marketing, journalism, or communications.

Agricultural Economics

Agricultural economists analyze and influence the industry’s economic aspects, providing insights through data analysis. Roles like agricultural lenders offer financial advice, while agricultural economist consultants predict future economic conditions. 

Salaries vary, with agricultural lenders potentially earning $60,000 to $100,000 per year and agricultural economist consultants earning $70,000 to $120,000 annually, based on experience. Advanced degrees may be required for some positions.

Agricultural Agronomy

Agricultural agronomy optimizes crop production and soil health through roles like environmental specialists and seed production agronomists. Responsibilities include land preparation, pest control, and cultivation practices. 

Educational requirements vary; career earnings range from $50,000 to $80,000 annually. It is ideal for those passionate about sustainable crop management and environmental protection.

Animal Sciences

Animal sciences encompass various roles like animal geneticist, apiary worker, artificial insemination technician, feed sales representative, livestock feedlot operator, livestock production manager, rendering truck driver, maintenance technician, and veterinarian. 

Careers may require degrees in genetics, animal science, or biology, with salaries ranging from $50,000 to $90,000 annually. It is ideal for those passionate about animal welfare and agricultural production.

Food Sciences

Food sciences encompass careers in food product research, development, and safety. Roles like food product researcher, food chemist, and food microbiologist contribute to advancing food technology and ensuring quality and safety. 

Educational requirements vary; salaries typically range from $50,000 to $100,000 annually. Ideal for those passionate about the food supply chain’s quality and safety.

Agriculture Education Teacher

Agriculture education teachers shape students’ futures by covering farming, agribusiness, technology, and sustainability. Responsibilities include curriculum development, hands-on training, fostering leadership, staying informed, and community engagement. 

Earnings range from $40,000 to $70,000 annually, depending on experience and location.

International Agriculture Consultant

International agriculture consultants offer global expertise in agricultural practices, policies, and projects, covering analysis, policy development, project management, and market analysis. Earnings vary with experience and can range from $50,000 to $120,000 or more, influenced by reputation and international project involvement.

Become a Leader in Agricultural Careers by Earning Your Master’s in Agricultural and Extension Education.

Typical Graduate Salary

Are you eager to understand earning potential in agriculture with a master’s degree? Check out these five careers in agriculture and review the salary ranges for these roles that require a master’s degree:

• Agriculture Mechanics Manager: $80,000 – $120,000 
• Agriculture Engineer (Mid-Career): $70,000 – $100,000 
• Agribusiness Manager: $90,000 – $130,000 
• Agricultural Scientist: $70,000 – $100,000 
• Farm Production Manager: $60,000 – $90,000 

It’s important to note that these figures are approximate and may vary based on the specific industry, company, and individual qualifications.

Skills Learned With a Master’s Degree

A master’s degree in agriculture equips individuals with advanced skills and knowledge essential for success in complex functions within the industry. 

Some critical skills learned during a master’s program include research and analysis, leadership and management, specialized knowledge, communication skills, and problem-solving, among others.

Gaining Career Experience as a Student

While pursuing a master’s degree, gaining practical experience is invaluable for preparing students for the challenges of the real-world work environment. Some ways to gain career experience as a student include:

• Internships: Seek internships with agricultural companies, research institutions, or government agencies to gain hands-on experience in your field of study.
• Research Opportunities: Engage in research projects and collaborate with faculty members to advance agricultural knowledge.
• Networking: Attend industry events and connect with farming professionals, paving the way for mentorship and job opportunities.

Professional and Student Associations

Likewise, joining professional and student associations in agriculture provides numerous benefits, such as access to industry resources and ongoing professional development. 

Some notable associations in the field include:

• American Society of Agricultural and Biological Engineers (ASABE): Specializes in engineering and technology in agriculture.
• National Agri-Marketing Association (NAMA): Enhances the professionalism of individuals in agribusiness marketing and communications.
• National FFA Organization: Offers support and development opportunities for future leaders in agriculture.
• Agricultural & Applied Economics Association (AAEA): Addresses economic issues in agriculture and related industries.

NMSU Global Campus: Master of Arts in Agricultural and Extension Education

For those looking to advance their agricultural education and career prospects, NMSU Global Campus offers a Master of Arts in Agricultural and Extension Education. 

This CAEP-accredited program equips students with the knowledge and skills for leadership roles across the agricultural sector. Earn Your Master of Arts in Agricultural and Extension Education through NMSU’s flexible online learning platform designed for working professionals.

Program Highlights

• CAEP-Approved: The program is accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP), ensuring high-quality education.
• Level III Teacher Licensure: Graduates can obtain Level III teaching licensure, enhancing their eligibility for teaching positions in agricultural education.
• Affordable Tuition: NMSU Global Campus is committed to providing affordable education, making the master’s program accessible to diverse students.

If you’re ready to elevate your expertise in the thriving agricultural sector or want to know more about agriculture careers that require a master’s degree, find our degree requirements and apply to the NMSU master’s program today.