Bachelor of Science in Agriculture

Student holding a plant in a pot outdoors.

Why Study Agriculture?

Study in the only program of its kind in Alberta at the U of A, home to an extensive network of plant and animal research facilities. In this four-year interactive degree program, you’ll learn about the biology of plants and/or animals, discover the role of biotechnology in society and explore environmentally sustainable approaches to manage land used for the production of many of the products we use daily, including food, clothing and fuel. This degree will equip you for a career in the agricultural industries, and you can pursue accreditation as a professional agrologist (P.Ag.). Graduates may also choose to enrol in the animal science major, veterinary studies.

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Hands-on Learning

Develop hands-on skills in our many plant and animal research facilities and work on real-world projects that examine issues faced by industry, government and environmental organizations in the ALES Mini-Internship Program (AMIP). Twice a year during the Fall and Winter reading weeks, this program matches students with an industry specific organization for a visit and volunteer work. It also includes engaging virtual presentations from agricultural producers from around the world.

Majors

Agricultural & Resource Economics

Researcher working on computer in cow barn, with cows in background.

Study how economic tools and thinking apply to the production, processing, marketing and financing of the agri-food and resource industries.  

Program Requirements
Animal Science

An artistic image of a field of snow. The image is crisply focused at the bottom and the trees and buildings in the distance are intentionally out of focus.

Examine the scientific aspects of animals and livestock, including physiology, genetics, biochemistry, nutrition, and behavior. 

Program Requirements
Crop Science

Three researchers observing plants growing in a greenhouse.

Specialize in the areas of plant growth, soils, and factors affecting plant production.

Program Requirements
Sustainable Agricultural Systems

Artistic image. Exterior windows of the AFDP research facility.

Learn how to maintain and enhance the performance of agricultural systems (including people, plants, animals, soil, water, and other resources) in efficient and sustainable ways.

Program Requirements

 

“As a student coming from a small farming community, the education I received at the U of A and all the agricultural clubs have been an excellent source of inspiration and knowledge.”

 

- Colten is a third-year Animal Science student from Alcomdale, AB. On top of being a passionate advocate and member of the agriculture community, Colten loves to play hockey and has represented Alberta North at Hockey Alberta Provincials.

 

A medium shot of Colton standing at a fence.

 

 
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Featured Courses

This experiential learning tour customized to your academic program and interests will give you the opportunity to explore the themes of agriculture, food, environment, food culture and social life in Mexico. Visits to farmers, wholesale and retail markets will provide insights into the diversity of foods and marketing channels.
Principles and practices of modern animal production and management. Brief introduction to the structure of the livestock, poultry, and game ranching industries. Principles of animal management, breeding and feeding. Students gain direct experience with animals in production/research environments.

 

 

 

Principles of plant science for use in agriculture, forestry and environmental sciences. Emphasis on vascular plants in an applied context. Topics include: plant structure and function; reproduction and development; and diversity and management of vegetation and crops.
Learn elementary aspects of soil formation, occurrence in natural landscapes, and classification, including basic characteristics employed in the identification of soils. Introduction to soil mineralogy, water movement, reactivity, organic matter, and nutrient cycling for predicting soil performance in managed and natural landscapes.

 

 

Feature Careers

Agrologists offer advice and services related to agricultural and environmental science and technology. They apply scientific principles to the cultivation, production, use, and improvement of plants and animals, and to the management of associated resources.  Agrology is a regulated profession in Alberta. Average Salary: $82,405

Soil Scientists study the composition, distribution, development, and behaviour of soils. They look at the interaction of soils with organisms, animals, plants, and the atmosphere. They manage soil resources for agricultural production, and to protect water resources and the environment. Average Salary: $100,617

Source: Government of Alberta, Occupations in Alberta

 

Careers in Agriculture

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Study Here

The Faculty of Agricultural, Life & Environmental Sciences (ALES) at the University of Alberta provides solutions to global challenges in the areas of agriculture, nutrition, the environment and human ecology. Spread across four departments, ALES faculty members and staff apply their broad scientific expertise in world-class facilities to improve lives at local and international levels. Students have access to one of the largest faculty scholarship programs at the institution, and can get involved with the thriving student community for a memorable and life-changing university experience.