UNIVERSITY OF WISCONSIN River Falls

Agricultural Education Degree

Program Overview

The Agricultural Education major at UW-River Falls prepares graduates to teach agriculture, food and natural resource related classes in the K-12 public school setting. The program combines technical agriculture, professional education and agricultural education courses. The knowledge and skills developed through this major are also in demand by a wide range of agriculture related employers.

Highlights of the Agricultural Education Major

While the program is designed to meet the requirements for an agricultural education teaching license in Wisconsin, the curriculum is also closely aligned to the requirements for a Minnesota teaching license.
Students interested in extension education careers such as 4-H youth development will also find opportunities to work with area extension staff and volunteers.
Agricultural education majors spend time in area middle and high school classrooms observing teachers and building their teaching skills prior to a semester-long student teaching experience at the end of the program.
Agricultural education majors have many opportunities to get involved outside the classroom through two departmental student organizations: the Agricultural Education Society and Alpha Tau Alpha, which is an honorary society for agricultural education professionals.
Build a professional network and develop skills through service projects, judging FFA competitions, presenting workshops and competing in collegiate contests.
A master's program in agricultural education is also available that offers additional opportunities for its graduates.

Skills and Learning Outcomes

As a student in this program, you will learn to:

Develop educational programs based on state and national curriculum standards.
Advise youth organizations including 4-H and FFA.
Utilize instructional technology to support learning.
Work with learners with a range of backgrounds, abilities and interests.
Implement experiential, service and work-based learning programs.
Create assessment tools that support learner development and program improvement.

Career Opportunities

As a graduate of this program, you will be prepared for a career in the agricultural education field. Below is a list of potential job titles and employers that graduates have found employment or internship opportunities with.

Potential Job Titles