Agricultural science is the investigation of agricultural practices. Although agricultural science and agriculture are interrelated, they are fundamentally very different. Agriculture is the cultivation of edible plants, fruits, and vegetables. Agricultural science, on the other hand, is concerned with study, development, and enhancement of production systems such as irrigation management, pest control, etc. It comprises the processes required to enhance the quality and quantity of agricultural goods.
Agricultural science is concerned with the transformation of raw materials into consumable goods. Additionally, it encompasses the prevention and treatment of issues that hinder productivity. It has been referred to as a local science due to its close relationship with local regions. It is commonly regarded as a science dealing with eco-regions because it is highly dependent on climate and soil characteristics of a particular place. These characteristics vary considerably from location to location. Numerous persons are of the belief that agricultural science depends on the local climate and soil characteristics; hence, local studies of certain crops are necessary.
History
Gregor Mendel’s groundbreaking work in the sphere of agriculture made the science of genetics extremely famous worldwide. In the modern period, however, the chemical fertilizer companies in Germany transformed the agricultural sector in the eighteenth century. With the passage of the Hatch Act in 1887, a revolution in agricultural research began in the United States. The driving cause behind the Hatch Act was the nation’s desire to empower farmers in order to increase their production and feed the rising population. Since the early 1960s, agriculture has gained considerable importance in both emerging and industrialized nations.
This approach was referred to as the Green Revolution and was associated with the selection and major improvement of crops for maximum yield. Even today, a significant amount of research is being undertaken in this field of study, which has led to the formation of a number of new fields of study, such as waste treatment, pest management, agricultural philosophy, and others, that are primarily concerned with food production. Agricultural science is the only science that will play a significant role in preserving the survival of the human race as the global population increases.
Agricultural Science Degree
Agricultural science is a multifaceted approach to understanding and applying the economic, social, and natural sciences involved in agriculture. Agricultural science graduates have a thorough awareness of the interaction between farmers, ecosystems, and consumers as a result of their intense study of economics, animal husbandry, botany, and everything else involved in farming and food production. Since more than half of the world’s population is directly or indirectly involved in agriculture and food production, agricultural science degrees provide a wide range of employment options, from teaching to agronomy.
The curriculum of the degree prepares students for entry-level positions in this field. They are educated in animal and plant biology, horticulture, animal agriculture, soil science, sustainable agriculture, fundamental chemistry, food production, and agricultural production economics. These diverse disciplines ensure that the student is adequately equipped for any problem that may arise in this sector.
Degree
The degree programs emphasize on intense and concentrated study of agricultural specializations. Classes include advanced chemistry, economics, water management, computer applications required for agriculture management, environmental design, biological engineering, pesticide and insecticide use, education, biotechnology, etc. Additionally, the degree includes extensive laboratory and fieldwork. The student may then choose to specialize in any of these previously studied disciplines. They may pursue degrees in agricultural science either online or on campus.
Options
Due to the importance of field and laboratory work in agricultural science, students cannot pursue master’s degrees in this discipline through online education. However, numerous online institutions offer advanced courses in a variety of disciplines, including environmental policies, environmental studies, and environmental management. These three disciplines are crucial to the study and administration of food production. The curriculum closely resembles that of agricultural science. Many private and public universities throughout the world offer online courses at the introductory and advanced levels.
Numerous colleges in the United States are renowned for offering diverse degree and certificate programs in this discipline. In the past few decades, institutions in India and Australia have emerged as heavyweights in this field of study by doing groundbreaking research and successfully implementing strategies in the many agricultural production sectors. Consequently, agricultural science students are in high demand across the globe.
Diploma Courses
Due to time and financial constraints, it is not always possible for an individual to complete full-time degree coursework. In such instances, individuals can pursue diploma programs. Any student who has finished high school may enroll in these diploma programs. These diploma programs are also offered in the sector of agriculture. The courses are organized to provide students with a comprehensive introduction to horticulture, animal husbandry, and agriculture. Students who desire to pursue a profession in Horticultural management or Agricultural Farm Management are strongly encouraged to enroll in agricultural diploma programs.
There are numerous sorts of diploma programs, including Basic Diploma, Postgraduate Diploma, and Advanced Diploma. These courses provide students with an understanding of several facets of agricultural science. These courses also address fundamental topics such as human resource management, physical and financial management.
Diploma programs in agriculture are offered by practically all of the world’s leading universities. There are in fact colleges that concentrate in agriculture degrees. Online diploma courses are also available through distance education. However, this is not a popular option due to the limited fieldwork and practical application opportunities for students. The agricultural diploma has evolved as a formidable instrument for those who wish to pursue a career in the agriculture industry in the current environment.
