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Seeding the Future: Top 5 In-Demand Ag Majors

Take a virtual trip to campus to see what’s new and needed for the next generation of agriculture.

August 2025 | By Syngenta Thrive 3 Min Read

Seeding the Future: Top 5 In-Demand Ag Majors

August 2025 | BY By Syngenta Thrive 3 Min Read

Today’s top colleges and universities offer a wide range of ag-related majors — each tailored to fit different strengths, passions and future career paths. Take a virtual trip to campus with us to see what’s new and what’s needed for the next generation of ag experts.

FILLING THE GAP
Right now, the industry is facing a shortage of:

FINDING NEW NICHES
Ag is ever evolving — and so are related majors. These notable new offerings are quickly gaining momentum.

BLAZING THE BEST TRAIL
Based on current trends, industry needs and post-graduate placement statistics, these five concentrations are pulling ahead for 2025 and beyond:

1. Agricultural & Biological Engineering

Overview: Both agricultural and biological tracks apply engineering principles to solve problems and develop new technology in ag/food production and natural resource management, focusing on improving efficiency and sustainability
Study guide: Coursework includes topics like engineering design & farm machinery mechanics, water-soil systems, renewable energy and bioprocesses; learning how to develop smarter equipment, more efficient irrigation and more sustainable infrastructure
Why it's an A+ move: Strong job placement potential as more farms modernize; future careers in equipment design, renewable energy and resource conservation

2. Precision Agriculture & Data Science/Analytics

Overview: In this field of study, students use technology and data analysis principles to enable data-backed decisions and systems that improve efficiency and productivity on the farm
Study guide: Leveraging tools like Geographic Information Systems (GIS), Global Positioning Systems (GPS), remote sensing & drone/sensor applications, Internet of Things (IoT), predictive modeling and computer programming to optimize real-world ag practices and tools, from variable-rate applications and moisture mapping to automated scouting
Why it's an A+ move: Addresses industry talent shortage, as more operations need analysts and technicians to help reduce costs and boost yields; with AI, robotics and digital farming on the rise, students in this field of study are set to lead the next ag tech revolution

3. Crop Science/Agronomy

Overview: Students gain a foundational understanding of basic plant science, soil management, irrigation and crop production techniques, with opportunities to pursue careers both in and out of the ag industry
Study guide: Curriculum can include plant physiology, plant genetics and breeding, weed and pest management, soil fertility, ecology, environmental studies and sustainability
Why it's an A+ move: High post-grad placement rate with likelihood for multiple job offers; strong crop protection industry need to combat weeds, insects, disease and climate change with sustainable solutions

4. Biochemistry & Biotechnology

Overview: This degree blends the study of chemical processes in living organisms with technological applications that leverage biological systems, setting students up for success in careers developing new seed traits and sustainable crop protection technology
Study guide: Areas of study include molecular biology, genetics, biotech and bioinformatics, enzymology, chemical engineering and plant pathology
Why it's an A+ move: Rising industry need for plant scientists and biotech experts will open many post-grad doors for innovators in R&D, seed labs, regulatory and more

5. Agricultural Business & Economics

Overview: In this field of study, students learn essential business skills plus a foundational understanding of the ag industry in a rapidly evolving economy, preparing for careers that range from marketing and sales to ag policy and consulting
Study guide: Core business fundamentals (management, marketing, finance, accounting, supply chain, etc.), agricultural economics, trade economics, trade policy and crop production, with opportunities to study ag-related sciences (plant, animal, food)
Why it's an A+ move: Extremely high post-grad placement; students equipped with the skills needed to manage supply chains, food security and changing regulatory policies are and will continue to be in high demand

SETTING A PATH FOR SUCCESS
For aspiring students looking to grow into a future-proofed career in ag, a few seeds of wisdom:

Expect emerging fields like precision ag and organic systems to increase in popularity and demand
Choose coursework that blends plant-focused science with tech or business training
Seek hands-on internships and volunteer work for experience and insights you can take to the field

College programs with strong placement + hands-on experience = a solid pathway straight to the field — and into successful roles with innovative ag companies like ours. Visit Syngenta-us.com/careers to explore available internships and future career opportunities!

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