Find Your Path in Agricultural Sciences

No matter what you choose to major in, our agricultural sciences programs help you build the skills to thrive in this dynamic field. These experiences set you up for success in a wide range of agriculture careers—whether you're improving conservation, advancing food systems, or driving innovation in agriculture.

• Innovation and technology: Use cutting-edge tools, such as biorefinery systems, pulsed UV-light, and ozone to improve farming and sustainability.

• Global impact awareness: Understand how agricultural sciences play a critical role in addressing global challenges such as food security, climate change, and environmental sustainability, and how you can contribute to creating solutions.

• Environmental stewardship: Learn how to protect natural resources, manage ecosystems, and promote sustainable agricultural practices.

• Policy and ethics: Navigate agricultural policies, food safety regulations, and ethical considerations in food production and sustainability.

• Interdisciplinary studies: Work across disciplines like biology, business, engineering, and environmental science to approach agricultural challenges from multiple angles.

• Problem-solving and critical thinking: Develop strong analytical skills to solve complex problems and make decisions that lead to practical, sustainable solutions.

• Leadership and teamwork: Collaborate with teams, lead agricultural initiatives, and engage with communities to drive positive change.

Programs in the agricultural sciences pathway at Penn State are designed to help you develop strong leadership skills that will set you apart in your career. Through hands-on experiences, collaborative projects, and real-world problem-solving, you’ll learn how to lead teams, make informed decisions, and manage complex agricultural challenges.

Whether you're working on a research project, leading an agricultural business, or championing sustainable practices, you'll be prepared to take on leadership roles that drive change in the industry and beyond.

Studying in an accredited program ensures that your education meets the highest industry standards, giving you the knowledge and skills employers value. Accredited programs provide rigorous, science-based training and hands-on experience, preparing you for exciting careers.

• Food Science, B.S. (University Park campus): Accredited by the Institute of Food Technologists.

• Forest Ecosystem Management, B.S. (University Park campus): Accredited by the Society of American Foresters, with three accredited options: Community and Urban Forest Management, Forest Biology, and Forest Management.

• Forest Technology, A.S. (Mont Alto campus): Accredited by the Society of American Foresters.

• Wildlife Technology, A.S. (DuBois campus): Accredited by the North American Wildlife Technology Association (NAWTA).

Penn State’s undergraduate engineering programs are accredited by ABET, the global standard for engineering education. This accreditation ensures our programs provide the technical expertise, hands-on experience, and problem-solving skills needed for success in cutting-edge engineering fields.

Employers recognize ABET-accredited degrees as a mark of quality and industry readiness, giving you a competitive edge in the job market and streamlining the path to professional licensure and certifications, opening doors to advanced career opportunities.

At Penn State, sustainability isn’t just a concept—it’s a commitment to shaping a better future. From pioneering renewable energy solutions to protecting natural resources, our students and faculty work together to tackle some of the world’s biggest environmental challenges.

With nearly 400 courses focused on sustainability and faculty experts across every campus, you'll gain the knowledge and hands-on experience to become a leader in this critical field. Our impact is real—25% of our electricity comes from one of Pennsylvania’s largest solar projects, and we’re ranked among the top universities worldwide for sustainability efforts.

Join a university that puts sustainability at the forefront, integrating science, policy, and innovation to create lasting change.

At Penn State, undergraduates can dive into research projects that explore new ideas and trends. This experience will set you apart and give you a deeper understanding of your field.

Explore undergraduate research opportunities.

Our agricultural sciences degrees give you a solid foundation for future success, whether you're starting your career or continuing your education.

With the skills and expertise you gain, you'll be prepared to excel in advanced studies or enter the workforce with confidence. Keep building on your knowledge and open the door to even more opportunities as you continue your academic journey and set yourself up for long-term success.

Learn more about graduate pathways in agricultural sciences.

Penn State offers comprehensive career services to help students confidently navigate their career. Our dedicated advisers provide personalized career counseling, resume workshops, interview prep, mock interviews, and job placement assistance.

With over 50,000 career preparedness programs annually and career fairs featuring top employers, we ensure you're well-equipped to succeed. There's a reason recruiters turn to Penn State graduates again and again.

You’ll also have access to networking opportunities with alumni, recruiters, and industry professionals to jumpstart your career.

Learn more about Career Services.

At Penn State, we provide unmatched networking opportunities through our world’s largest dues-paying alumni network, connecting students to a lifelong community of professionals.

With access to alumni and industry leaders, you’ll gain valuable insights, career advice, and potential job opportunities. Our alumni network and partnerships with top employers ensure that you're building relationships that will support your career for years to come.

Participate in internships and co-op programs to gain valuable real-world experience by connecting you with leading companies across industries.

These opportunities allow you to apply classroom learning to professional settings, build industry-specific skills, and network with potential employers.

Internships are short-term, hands-on positions, while co-ops involve alternating work and study periods for a more in-depth experience. Both are designed to give you a competitive edge, preparing you for a successful career after graduation.

Penn State offers a range of opportunities for students eager to launch their own businesses or drive innovation within existing industries. Through Invent Penn State, you'll have access to programs that support entrepreneurial education both in and outside the classroom.

Our signature programs provide students with the knowledge, resources, and mentorship needed to bring bold ideas to life. Whether you want to start your own venture or lead innovation within a company, Penn State provides the support to turn your entrepreneurial dreams into reality.

Learn more about Invent Penn State.

Broaden your perspective with over 300 study abroad programs in more than 50 countries, available year-round for all majors.

Whether through embedded programs that let you take classes while traveling during breaks or global service opportunities like alternative spring break, these experiences will deepen your understanding of international business and culture. Gain the global insights and connections that today’s leaders need to succeed.

Learn more about global learning opportunities.

We are dedicated to shaping the future by fostering a community where all students are encouraged to share their unique perspectives. We believe that progress happens when we embrace and amplify ideas, ensuring that every voice is heard and valued.

Our commitment goes beyond the classroom, weaving together integrity, leadership, and social responsibility. With a focus on creating positive change, Penn State prepares students to lead with purpose and make a lasting impact. From cutting-edge initiatives to global learning opportunities, we empower students to drive social good.

Penn State’s Integrated Undergraduate-Graduate (IUG) degree programs allow students to pursue both a bachelor’s and a master’s degree as a continuous course of study. This streamlined path accelerates the completion of the master's degree and offers early exposure to graduate-level coursework. IUG students also benefit from networking opportunities with graduate students and faculty who share similar academic and career interests.

Learn more about IUG programs at Penn State.

Take your education further with honors programs, where high-achieving students gain access to small, discussion-based classes, faculty mentorship, and unique academic experiences.

With honors opportunities available across our campuses and Schreyer Honors College, you’ll engage in research, leadership development, and hands-on learning that sets you apart. Personalized advising, study abroad options, and career resources help you make the most of your college journey.

We offer more than sixty articulation agreements with colleges and universities around the world to help transfer students continue their education at Penn State. With hundreds of academic majors and campuses across Pennsylvania, you'll have plenty of options to find the right path for your future.