Agricultural Science Professor

Agriculture Professor, Associate Professor, Instructor, Professor
Job Description

An Agricultural Science Professor is an educator and researcher specializing in the field of agricultural sciences. They focus on teaching various aspects of agriculture, conducting research, and advancing knowledge in farming, food production, and environmental sustainability.

Typical Preparation

Education: Doctoral or professional degree

Years in related career: None

On-the-job training: None

Outlook

Projected Growth: 4.8% (above average)

Annual job openings: 800

Direct AI exposure: 44% of tasks

Potential AI exposure: 73% of tasks

Income data is from Employment and Social Development Canada's 2025 wage tables. The closest match for this career in Canada’s occupational classification system is College and Other Vocational Instructors. According to the wage tables, average income is $94K per year.
Bottom 10%Bottom 25%Median (average)Top 25%Top 10%
$50K
per year
$68K
per year
$94K
per year
$113K
per year
$153K
per year
Compared to other careers: Median is $29K above the national average.

What does an Agricultural Science Professor do?

Intro video

(less than 2 minutes)

Duties

  • Teaches undergraduate and graduate courses in agricultural sciences.
  • Conducts research in agricultural methods, sustainability, and technology.
  • Publishes research findings in academic journals.
  • Supervises student research projects and theses.
  • Engages in academic service such as committee work and curriculum development.

Work environment

Agricultural Science Professors work in colleges and universities, spending time in classrooms, laboratories, and sometimes in the field. They often have a combination of teaching duties, laboratory research, fieldwork, and participation in academic committees.

Typical Schedule

Areas of specialization

  • Agronomy: Studying crop production and soil management.
  • Horticulture: Specializing in garden cultivation and management.
  • Animal Science: Focusing on livestock management and veterinary sciences.
  • Agricultural Economics: Analyzing economic aspects in agriculture, including market trends.
  • Sustainable Agriculture: Concentrating on eco-friendly farming practices and resource management.

Description

Agricultural Science Professors play a crucial role in educating future agricultural professionals. They provide theoretical knowledge and practical skills necessary for efficient and sustainable agricultural practices. Professors in this field must stay current with the latest agricultural technologies and methods to provide relevant education. Their research often focuses on solving current problems in agriculture, such as improving crop yields, pest management, sustainable farming practices, and environmental impacts of agriculture. This research not only contributes to the academic field but also has practical applications that can directly impact the agriculture industry. In addition to teaching and research, these professors engage in a variety of activities, including academic advising, mentoring students, and participating in professional organizations. Their work often extends beyond the university, involving collaboration with farmers, agricultural companies, and government agencies.

Job Satisfaction

Sources of satisfaction

You might make a good Agricultural Science Professor if you are...

Pros:

  • Opportunity to contribute to vital research in food production and sustainability.
  • Engaging in a diverse range of activities, from teaching to hands-on fieldwork.
  • Academic freedom to explore various topics within agricultural science.

Cons:

  • The pressure of academic publishing and securing research funding.
  • Balancing teaching, research, and administrative responsibilities can be challenging.
  • The need to constantly update knowledge in a rapidly evolving field.

How to become an Agricultural Science Professor

Typical education

Typically, a Ph.D. in Agricultural Sciences or a related field is required to become an Agricultural Science Professor, which takes about 8-10 years of post-secondary education (including undergraduate and graduate studies).

High school preparation

Courses:

  • Biology and Chemistry to understand the scientific basis of agriculture.
  • Environmental Science to appreciate the impact of farming on ecosystems.
  • Mathematics, particularly statistics, for data analysis in research.

Extra-Curricular Activities:

  • Participate in agricultural clubs.
  • Engage in gardening or farming projects to gain hands-on experience.
  • Volunteer with local farms or environmental organizations.

Preparation after high school

  • Pursue a bachelor's degree in agricultural science, biology, or a related field.
  • Gain practical experience through internships in agricultural settings.
  • Pursue a master's degree and a Ph.D. in Agricultural Sciences or a related field.
  • Engage in research projects, especially those focusing on current agricultural issues.

More resources

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