University of Guelph

What you'll study

This degree provides a balance of core biological and physical sciences together with applied agricultural subjects. Early years focus on foundational courses in biology, chemistry, mathematics and statistics alongside introduction to agricultural systems. In later years you choose from more specialised topics and experiential options.

• Core science and methods: cellular and organismal biology, organic and inorganic chemistry, biostatistics, research methods and experimental design.
• Crop and soil science: plant physiology, soil science and fertility, weed science, pest management and agronomy.
• Animal and production systems: animal physiology, nutrition, animal health and welfare, livestock production systems and management.
• Food and processing: fundamentals of food science, post‑harvest handling, quality assurance and food safety principles.
• Economics and management: farm and agribusiness management, agricultural marketing, policy and extension concepts.
• Sustainability and technology: environmental management, precision agriculture, GIS applications and sustainable production practices.
• Practical learning: field labs, research projects, practicum placements and opportunities to work at University of Guelph research farms and centres.

Programme structure

The programme is structured across multiple years, moving from broad foundational courses to discipline‑specific electives and a capstone research or experiential project. Students can often tailor their degree through electives, minors or work‑integrated learning placements. Options for undergraduate research supervision and participation in applied projects at on‑campus research farms are common.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to have completed a secondary school diploma with preparatory courses in English and mathematics plus sciences such as biology and chemistry. Specific course prerequisites may vary by faculty or major within the agriculture degree. The University of Guelph also accepts equivalent qualifications from international and mature applicants, and gives consideration to applicants with relevant practical experience.

• Secondary school English and mathematics are typically required.
• Secondary school science courses (for example biology and chemistry) are normally required or strongly recommended.
• Post‑secondary transfer applicants should provide transcripts and may receive credit for relevant college or university courses.
• Non‑academic considerations such as references, personal statements or evidence of agricultural experience can strengthen an application for some streams.

Career prospects

Graduates move into a wide range of roles across production, industry and research. The degree equips students with scientific literacy, technical competence and practical experience valued by employers in the food and agricultural sectors.

• Agronomist, crop consultant or crop production specialist
• Livestock production manager, animal nutritionist or herd health technician
• Farm business manager or agricultural entrepreneur
• Quality assurance, food safety or processing technician in the agri‑food industry
• Extension officer, policy analyst or conservation specialist in government and non‑profit organisations
• Research technician or pathway to graduate study in plant, soil or animal sciences
• Sales, marketing or management roles with agricultural input suppliers and agribusiness firms

Why study at University of Guelph

The University of Guelph’s agricultural programmes are delivered through its established agricultural college with strong links to regional and national agri‑food sectors. Students benefit from hands‑on experiential learning at on‑campus research farms, greenhouses and laboratories, as well as partnerships with industry for placements and applied projects.

• Practical training: extensive field and lab facilities, research farms and opportunities for on‑farm experience.
• Interdisciplinary opportunities: easy access to complementary programmes in food science, environmental sciences, business and veterinary‑related subjects.
• Research and industry links: collaboration with researchers, extension specialists and industry partners provides real‑world project experience.
• Student support and extracurriculars: dedicated academic advising, career services and agriculture‑focused student clubs and societies.