Berea College

What you'll study

The curriculum blends foundational plant and animal science with applied courses in soil science, agroecology, pest management, farm business and food systems. Typical modules include crop production and rotation, animal husbandry and welfare, soil fertility and conservation, plant pathology and integrated pest management, agricultural chemistry and laboratory techniques, and sustainable farm design.

Practical training is a central element: students spend substantial time working on the Berea College Farm and in campus greenhouses, completing field laboratories, season-long practicum placements and supervised internships with local farms, co-operatives or extension services. Courses emphasise sustainable and regenerative practices, local food systems, community outreach, and the social and economic dimensions of agriculture.

• Core agricultural sciences: plant physiology, animal science, soils
• Sustainable and regenerative farming practices
• Farm management and agribusiness basics
• Food systems, local food policy and community engagement
• Research methods, statistics and capstone or thesis project

Entry requirements

Applicants should have completed secondary education with a record of coursework in science and mathematics. Recommended preparation includes biology, chemistry, algebra and, if available, agricultural science or environmental studies. Berea College looks for evidence of academic readiness, motivation for hands-on learning, and commitment to service and community engagement.

Typical application materials include a secondary school transcript, personal statement describing interest in agriculture and community work, and one or more academic or character references. Applicants may be invited to discuss their practical experience with farming or related activities; relevant work or volunteer experience strengthens an application. Standardised tests may be considered but are not the sole basis for admission.

Career prospects

Graduates go on to a wide range of careers across production, conservation, education and food systems. Common roles include farm manager or operator, crop or livestock specialist, conservation technician, extension educator, sustainable food systems coordinator and roles in agribusiness, farmers’ markets and food hubs. Many alumni work with community food programmes, agricultural non-profits, government extension services and land stewardship organisations.

The degree also provides preparation for further study at graduate level in areas such as agronomy, animal science, soil science, sustainable agriculture, food policy and agricultural economics.

Why study at Berea College

Berea College emphasises experiential education and community engagement, with its on-campus farm and greenhouse providing a living laboratory for students. Small class sizes and close faculty supervision support hands-on learning and research. Berea’s institutional culture focuses on service, sustainability and access to higher education, and students participate in work programmes that integrate practical skills and campus life.

Studying agriculture at Berea offers direct connections to regional producers, extension services and community food initiatives in the Appalachian region, helping students build networks and gain practical experience that lead into regional and national careers in agriculture and food systems.