Many agricultural science careers involve knowledge of farming practices.
An educational background in agricultural science provides ample opportunities for future careers. Most agricultural science careers require at least a bachelor's degree. A graduate degree is required for more specialized positions. Although most agricultural science careers involve farming, some jobs also involve other areas of expertise, such as business, marketing and chemistry.
Food Science Careers
Food science careers involve the manufacturing of foods and development of new technologies to aid food production. According to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), a food scientist might develop new food packaging methods, research ways to improve food production or work for government agencies and evaluate food practices. Food scientists must have a broad knowledge of the sciences, including chemistry, biochemistry, physics and engineering. As of May 2008, food scientists made a median annual income of $59,520, as noted by the BLS.
Plant Science Careers
According to a "Science" magazine online article, "The majority of plant biologists work somewhere in the continuum from basic plant biology on one end ... to the development of agricultural products on the other." In an agricultural setting, plant biologists and plant scientists try to find ways to improve crop production and increase crop yields. They may specialize in pest control or prevention of plant disease. As of May 2008, plant scientists earned a median annual income of $58,390.
Business-Related Careers
For those who have an interested in business as well as agricultural science, a combination of the two may be appropriate. As noted by North Carolina State University online, agriculture science careers that involve elements of business will probably require an educational background in both science and business, economics, management and accounting. Possible careers might include agricultural management, marketing and accounting. Salary varies by position. The starting salary for graduates with a bachelor's degree in agricultural business management from North Carolina State University was $35,817.
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