When you think of a career in agriculture, you might picture wide open fields and early mornings on the farm. And while that’s still part of the picture, today’s agriculture graduates are doing a whole lot more.
At SEMO, students in the Department of Agriculture are prepared for a wide range of careers, from managing crops and livestock to solving global food security challenges, working in agri-tech startups, or even influencing public policy.
If you’ve ever wondered what you can do with an agriculture degree, the better question is: what can’t you do?
Rooted in Tradition: Classic Ag Careers That Still Lead the Field
These foundational agriculture jobs remain essential to our economy and they’re evolving thanks to science, data, and sustainability efforts.
Here are some of the most common paths SEMO ag grads take:
- Farm or Ranch Manager: Oversee the daily operations of a farm like planning crops, managing livestock, supervising labor, and making business decisions.
- Crop Production Specialist: Work with seed selection, planting schedules, fertilizer use, and harvest planning to maximize yield.
- Livestock Production Manager: Manage the health, breeding, and daily care of cattle, poultry, hogs, or other animals.
- Agronomist or Soil Scientist: Study soil conditions and recommend strategies to improve productivity and sustainability.
- Agricultural Sales or Service Representative: Help producers choose the right equipment, feed, chemicals, or crop inputs, and provide tech support.
- Agricultural Equipment Technician: Maintain and repair modern, tech-driven farming machinery.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, agriculture and food-related roles will see steady demand, with job openings annually due to retirements and the need for skilled replacements.
Think Outside the Field: Agriculture Employment Opportunities You Didn't Expect
Not every agriculture grad ends up on a farm. In fact, many use their degree for science, business, technology, or education.
Here are some exciting directions your agriculture degree can take you:
- Environmental or Sustainability Consultant: Help farms and corporations implement climate-smart agriculture practices.
- Agricultural Policy Advisor or Analyst: Work with government or advocacy groups to shape food policy, land use, and rural development initiatives.
- Agricultural Educator or Extension Agent: Teach in schools, work with FFA, or deliver hands-on training to farmers through university outreach.
- Agricultural Communicator or Marketer: Use your writing, media, or communication skills to tell the story of agriculture in the public sphere.
These careers are where agriculture meets innovation, and SEMO students are well-positioned to take them on.
Your Launchpad: SEMO’s Role in Your Ag Career
No matter your path—traditional or trailblazing—SEMO gives you the skills, support, and experience to thrive:
- Hands-on learning from day one through work at the University farm, research center, and greenhouse labs.
- Expert faculty mentors who guide you in animal science, crop production, agribusiness, and more.
- Internships and industry partnerships that connect you to agriculture jobs in Missouri and beyond.
- A 96% success rate for SEMO ag grads who are employed or in graduate school within six months of graduation.
Ready to Grow Your Future?
From feeding the world to transforming how we produce food, agriculture jobs are more critical and more diverse than ever.
At SEMO, you’re not just earning a degree. You’re joining a new generation of thinkers, leaders, and changemakers rooted in science, business, and the impact of agriculture.