Colorado State University

What you'll study

The programme covers core topics in plant and animal production, soil and water management, pest and nutrient management, agricultural systems and sustainable production practices. Typical modules include crop physiology and management, soil science and fertility, animal production systems, pest management, precision and data‑driven agriculture, agricultural economics and farm business management, and research methods and statistics.

Students can usually choose between a research (thesis) option and a coursework or professional master's option. The research route emphasises independent investigation, laboratory and fieldwork and a written thesis under faculty supervision, while the professional option focuses on advanced coursework, applied projects or internships that emphasise ready‑to‑use skills for industry, extension or government roles.

Hands‑on learning is a consistent element: you can expect field and greenhouse experiments at CSU research farms and access to laboratories, sensors and GIS/precision‑agriculture tools. Interdisciplinary electives enable students to combine agronomy, animal science, soil science, entomology, plant pathology, agricultural economics or natural resource management to suit career goals.

Entry requirements

Applicants normally need a bachelor’s degree in agriculture, horticulture, plant or animal science, soil science, environmental science, agricultural engineering, or a closely related discipline. A solid academic record in relevant coursework (such as biology, chemistry, statistics and core agronomy or animal science courses) is expected.

Typical application components include official academic transcripts, a statement of purpose outlining research or career goals, and academic or professional references. Some specialisms or advisors may request a CV and examples of academic work or research experience. GRE requirements vary by department and programme pathway; applicants should check the specific department’s guidance.

International applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency through an accepted test or other qualifying evidence. Relevant work experience, technical skills, or prior research can strengthen an application, particularly for the professional master’s route.

Career prospects

Graduates move into a wide range of careers across private industry, public agencies, non‑profits and research institutions. Common roles include crop or livestock production manager, agronomist, crop consultant, extension specialist or agent, sustainability or natural resource manager, precision‑agriculture specialist, supply‑chain and commodity analyst, and roles in agricultural policy or programme management.

Those who complete the research (thesis) option often continue to doctoral study or take up research and development roles in universities, government research centres and agri‑technology companies. The professional option is designed to prepare students for immediate applied roles in industry, cooperatives and consulting firms.

Why study at Colorado State University

As a land‑grant university with a long history in agricultural research and extension, Colorado State provides strong links between classroom learning, on‑farm research and community outreach. Students benefit from access to university research farms, diagnostic laboratories, extension services and partnerships with regional producers and agri‑businesses.

Faculty expertise spans fundamental and applied agriculture, from crop and soil science to animal systems and agri‑business, offering supervision for diverse research interests. The campus location also provides opportunities to study production systems relevant to semi‑arid and mountain environments, water management challenges and climate‑resilient practices.

Additionally, interdisciplinary collaboration across departments and centres supports training in emerging areas such as precision agriculture, sustainability and agri‑data analytics, helping graduates translate technical knowledge into practical solutions for contemporary agricultural challenges.