Northwest Missouri State University

What you'll study

This master’s programme builds on foundational agricultural science with an emphasis on applied and research-based approaches. Core topics typically include soil science and fertility, crop science and production, plant pathology and pest management, livestock production systems, and agricultural economics and management. Students also study research methods and experimental design, statistics for agricultural research, and contemporary topics such as precision agriculture, sustainable production systems and natural resource conservation.

Most students choose between a thesis (research) option and a non-thesis (project/coursework) option. The thesis route involves designing and carrying out an original research project under faculty supervision and defending the results. The non-thesis route concentrates on advanced coursework and applied projects or internships that prepare students for professional practice.

• Soil Science and Fertility
• Crop Production and Physiology
• Plant Protection and Pest Management
• Livestock Production Systems and Nutrition
• Agricultural Research Methods and Statistics
• Precision Agriculture and GIS applications
• Agribusiness Management and Policy
• Thesis or Applied Project

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a bachelor's degree in agriculture, animal science, plant science, agri-business, biology or a closely related field from an accredited institution. Admission typically requires a satisfactory undergraduate academic record and official transcripts. Candidates should provide a personal statement outlining academic and professional goals, and two or three letters of recommendation from academic or professional referees who can comment on the applicant’s preparedness for graduate study.

Additional materials often requested include a current CV or résumé and a plan of study or research interests when applicable. Some applicants without a directly related bachelor’s degree may be admitted conditionally and asked to complete prerequisite coursework. International applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency to the university’s accepted standard.

Career prospects

Graduates from the Master’s in Agriculture go on to a wide range of careers in production agriculture, agribusiness and public and private sector roles. Common positions include agronomist or crop consultant, farm or ranch manager, extension specialist, research technician or associate, and positions in seed, chemical and equipment companies. Other pathways include roles in agricultural marketing and management, natural resource conservation agencies, food safety and regulatory bodies, and continued academic study toward a PhD or teaching career.

The programme’s combination of technical training and applied experience also supports entrepreneurial ventures such as farm diversification, value‑added production and agricultural consulting businesses.

Why study at Northwest Missouri State University

Northwest Missouri State University provides a regional, applied focus to agricultural graduate education with opportunities for hands‑on learning on university farms, greenhouses and laboratory facilities. Faculty are engaged in research relevant to Missouri and Midwest production systems and maintain connections with local producers, extension services and industry partners, which supports internship and employment pathways.

The university emphasises small class sizes and faculty mentorship, allowing students to pursue individual research interests and applied projects. For students seeking practical experience and community engagement alongside graduate study, the programme offers a supportive environment with access to field sites, research equipment and regional networks in agriculture.