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.

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 have been in the $35,000 to $40,000 range. Other graduates seek employment in Cooperative Extension, farming, agricultural finance, agribusiness, and government agencies in agriculture, or continue their studies at the graduate level.