Agricultural and Extension Education

The Graduate Certificate in Agricultural and Extension Education is a 15-credit-hour program. It can be completed entirely online. Pursuing a graduate certificate requires a high level of commitment. This graduate certificate program is particularly appropriate for individuals who:

• Want advanced training in agricultural and extension education but don’t plan to pursue a master’s degree;
• Have a master’s degree in another discipline but would like to gain expertise in cooperative extension education;
• Are earning certification to teach in agriculture and desire additional credentials;
• Work as extension agents and are taking courses for the required professional development hours.

Twelve credit hours (four courses) from the certificate may be applied to the Master of Agricultural and Extension Education. Other students earn the certificate while pursuing the Licensure in Education for Agricultural Professionals (LEAP). Note: AG*IDEA courses cannot be covered by tuition waivers. Students are required to prepare a professional portfolio of artifacts
and evidence of their set objectives.

Career Prospects

From animal agriculture to field crops, and from food safety and processing to farm health and pest management, extension agents are a crucial part of the agribusiness industry and community development. Typically employed by land-grant universities to serve as an expert or educator, extension professionals educate and coordinate efforts between key players in the community. They facilitate understanding and collaboration between farmers, ranchers, agribusinesses and local businesses. These networks are primarily established through education about topics such as economics, community development, agriculture, family, animal production, diet and nutrition.

Graduates of the Graduate Certificate in Agricultural and Extension Education are well equipped to serve producers, communities and agribusinesses as extension professionals. In addition to work as extension agents, graduates are equipped to teach at the secondary level.