Cost & earnings at University of Massachusetts Amherst What students borrow here, and what they go on to earn
The Bachelor in Agriculture at the University of Massachusetts Amherst is offered through the Stockbridge School of Agriculture and provides a practical, science-based education in crop and animal production, soil and plant sciences, and farm business management. It suits students seeking hands-on training for careers in farming, food systems, extension work or further study in agricultural sciences.
The programme combines core agricultural science with practical, field-based learning. Core subject areas typically include soil science, crop production, plant pathology, horticulture, animal science, agroecology and integrated pest management. Students also study farm business management, agricultural economics, and marketing to prepare for the commercial and policy aspects of agriculture.
Learning is delivered through a mix of classroom lectures, laboratory work and extensive hands-on experiences at the university's teaching farms, research plots and greenhouses. Typical modules and activities you can expect:
Elective options and cross-disciplinary courses enable study in areas such as food systems, environmental science, policy, conservation, and community development. The programme emphasises experiential learning, with opportunities for summer placements, student-run enterprise and research collaborations with UMass Extension.
Applicants are expected to hold a high-school diploma or equivalent. Strong preparation in mathematics and laboratory science (biology, chemistry) is beneficial. Typical application materials include academic transcripts, a personal statement outlining interest in agriculture, and at least one academic or professional reference.
UMass Amherst considers the overall academic profile alongside evidence of practical interest in agriculture—such as work or volunteer experience on farms, in gardens, with 4-H or FFA, or related community projects. Transfer applicants should provide college transcripts and meet the programme's transfer credit policies. International applicants must meet the university's general admissions and English language requirements.
Graduates enter a wide range of careers across production, research, policy and business. Common roles include farm manager, crop or livestock technician, agronomist, extension educator, sustainable agriculture specialist, and agribusiness or supply-chain positions. Other pathways lead to conservation and land-management roles, food-system coordination, urban agriculture and nonprofit work focused on community food security.
Many graduates also progress to graduate study in agronomy, plant sciences, soil science, environmental science or agricultural education, or obtain professional qualifications to work in industry, government extension services and consultancy.
UMass Amherst's Stockbridge School of Agriculture has a long-established practical focus and direct links with New England's diverse agricultural community. The university maintains teaching farms, research facilities and greenhouses that provide sustained hands-on learning and opportunities to participate in applied research. Students benefit from collaboration with UMass Extension, which connects academic work to on-farm outreach and regional advisory services.
Being part of a large research university gives access to cross-disciplinary resources in environmental science, biology, economics and public policy, plus career services and industry connections across the Northeast. The programme's emphasis on experiential learning, internships and community engagement prepares graduates for immediate employment in agricultural and food systems roles or for further study.
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