University of North Dakota

What you'll study

This programme combines core public service and agricultural studies to give students the knowledge and practical skills needed for careers in agricultural extension, rural development and public administration. You will take a mix of coursework in agricultural systems, public policy, communications and management alongside hands-on learning in community settings.

• Core subjects: introduction to agricultural systems, principles of public administration, agricultural policy and law, rural sociology and community development.
• Applied and skills modules: extension education and outreach methods, grant writing and programme evaluation, agricultural and natural resource communications, leadership and organisational behaviour.
• Technical subjects: farm and agribusiness management, basic agronomy and soil science, statistics for social sciences, GIS and spatial analysis for land-use planning (introductory level).
• Practical components: field studies, supervised internships or practicum placements with local agencies or organisations, and a capstone or applied project that involves community engagement or policy analysis.
• Electives and interdisciplinary options: environmental policy, food systems and supply chains, nonprofit management, and courses from related departments such as economics or communications to tailor your specialism.

Entry requirements

Admission to the bachelor's programme typically requires a recognised secondary school completion certificate. Applicants are expected to have completed a programme of study that includes mathematics and science; courses in social studies, agriculture or communications are advantageous.

• Typical academic profile: secondary school diploma with competitive grades; specific minimums are set and assessed at application.
• International applicants: evidence of English language proficiency through recognised tests or prior instruction in English where required.
• Transfer and mature students: transfer credits from college-level coursework or relevant work experience may be considered; applicants with careers in agriculture, public service or community organisations are encouraged to apply.
• Additional requirements: some practical placements may require background checks or immunisations depending on partner organisation policies.

Career prospects

Graduates move into roles that support agricultural communities, deliver public programmes and advise on policy and resource management. Job destinations draw on both the agricultural and public-service components of the degree.

• Common roles: agricultural extension agent, community development coordinator, policy analyst for regional or national bodies, regulatory officer, and programme officer for non-governmental organisations.
• Sectors: local and state government, federal agencies such as agricultural or natural resource departments, non-profit and community organisations, agribusiness firms, commodity boards and cooperatives.
• Further study and professional development: graduates often pursue postgraduate qualifications in public administration, agricultural economics, environmental policy or education; continuing professional development in grant writing, project management or mediation is also common.

Why study at University of North Dakota

The University of North Dakota offers a supportive campus environment with opportunities for applied learning and community engagement in a region with strong agricultural activity. The programme emphasises experiential learning, with practicum placements and applied projects that connect students to rural communities, government agencies and industry partners.

• Small-class teaching and access to faculty who focus on applied, community-oriented research and outreach.
• Practical experience through internships, fieldwork and capstone projects that build employer-relevant skills in communication, programme delivery and policy implementation.
• Opportunities to combine agricultural knowledge with public-service skills to pursue diverse careers in government, NGOs, industry and community organisations across the region and beyond.