University of Nebraska Kearney

What you'll study

The programme blends core business courses with agriculture-specific subjects to build skills in management, finance, marketing and production systems. Study is a mix of classroom theory, laboratory work and applied projects that reflect the commercial realities of modern agriculture.

• Core business modules: managerial accounting, agricultural finance, business law, organisational behaviour, marketing principles and strategic management.
• Agricultural and production modules: crop and livestock production systems, soil and nutrient management, agricultural economics, farm business planning and risk management.
• Applied and analytical modules: agribusiness marketing and sales, commodity markets and futures, supply-chain management, data analysis for agriculture and decision-making tools (including budgeting and forecasting).
• Practical learning: applied projects, case studies, field labs and opportunities for on-farm experiences or simulation exercises to develop hands-on operational skills.
• Capstone/Applied Experience: most students complete a capstone project, internship or practicum with an agribusiness, cooperative, extension office or farm enterprise to demonstrate integrated knowledge and workplace readiness.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally required to hold a high school diploma (or equivalent). Admissions typically assess overall academic record and preparation in quantitative and science subjects. The programme welcomes domestic and international applicants, and transfer students with relevant college credit.

• Academic preparation: recommended high school coursework includes algebra/precalculus, biology, chemistry and economics or business studies where available.
• Standardised tests: the university may consider ACT or SAT scores as part of an application; check the institution's admissions guidance for current testing policies.
• Transfer applicants: submit official college transcripts; previously completed college coursework in business or agriculture can be evaluated for credit.
• International applicants: required to provide proof of English language proficiency through recognised tests or other university-accepted evidence.
• Additional materials: official transcripts, a personal statement outlining interest in agricultural business, and references or letters of recommendation may strengthen an application.

Career prospects

Graduates gain versatile skills that apply to a broad set of roles across the agriculture value chain and rural enterprises. The degree prepares students for operational, managerial and analytical positions where understanding both production and business is essential.

• Agribusiness management and operations (cooperatives, input suppliers, processors)
• Farm and ranch management or farm business ownership and consulting
• Commodity marketing, trading and risk management roles
• Sales and product management for agricultural inputs and equipment
• Supply-chain and logistics roles focused on food and agricultural products
• Extension, outreach and community development positions with public agencies or non-profits
• Graduate study opportunities in agricultural economics, agribusiness, business administration or related fields

Why study at University of Nebraska Kearney

UNK offers a hands-on, regionally focused agricultural business education with strong connections to Nebraska’s agricultural economy. Small class sizes and faculty with applied experience mean students receive personalised instruction and mentorship.

• Industry connections: opportunities for internships, applied projects and networking with local farms, cooperatives and agribusiness firms that operate in one of the country’s leading agricultural states.
• Experiential learning: curriculum emphasises field-based learning, practical labs and real-world problem solving to develop workplace-ready skills.
• Support services: career services, advising and extension partnerships help students secure internships and transition into employment or graduate study.
• Flexible pathways: options to combine business and technical agricultural coursework, pursue minors or certificates, and transfer prior college credit into the programme.