In addition to the rigorous scientific training in the area of agricultural production, instruction is provided in applied business knowledge and skills. This program is designed for those who seek careers in a science-based setting with significant managerial and leadership responsibilities.

Agribusiness needs people who know and understand the science of agriculture. In many cases though, science knowledge alone is insufficient. The skills and abilities to transform science knowledge into meaningful products and services are needed as well.

The goal of the M.S. degree in agricultural production is to produce graduates with advanced knowledge in agricultural science and with relevant real-world business knowledge and skills.

Agricultural innovation requires the management and understanding of relationships – the connections between the laboratory, field, consumer, regulator, investor, among others. The depth of the science curriculum plus the breadth of the business curriculum guide you toward an understanding of these connections.

Illinois PSM graduates of the agricultural production program have career opportunities as a:

  • Breeding Manager
  • Production Farm Manager
  • Sales/Marketing Representative
  • Natural Resource Manager
  • International Development Analyst or Advocate
  • Sustainability Coordinator
  • Wildlife Biologist
  • Sustainable Farming Consultant