Agricultural Technologies
Overview
Agricultural technologies programs teach people to buy, sell, and fix agricultural mechanical and technical equipment.Agriculture technologies programs include topics such as:
- Agribusiness power equipment
- Construction
- Irrigation and water control
- Erosion control
- Agriculture data processing systems
Concentrations
In agricultural technologies programs, students may be able to specialize in:
- Agricultural mechanics
- Crop-spraying equipment
- Feeding systems
- Irrigation and plumbing equipment
Schools
Several community colleges and technical schools offer certificate and associate degree programs in agriculture technologies. A certificate program usually takes a year of full-time study. An associate degree program at a community college usually takes two years of full-time study to complete.
Several colleges and universities offer bachelor's degrees in agricultural technologies. A bachelor's degree usually takes about four years of full-time study.
Very few universities offer graduate degrees in agriculture technologies. A master's degree typically requires two years of study beyond a bachelor's degree.
See schools that offer this program.
Related Educational Programs
- Agricultural and Extension Education Services
- Agricultural Production Operations
- Agriculture, General
- Automotive Technology
- Construction Inspection
- Industrial Mechanics
- Small Engine Repair
Related Careers
Careers Directly Related to this Program of Study
Other Careers Related to this Program of Study
- Agricultural Engineers
- Agricultural Scientists
- Agricultural Worker Supervisors
- Bioengineers
- Farm and Ranch Workers
- Farmers and Farm Managers
- Geospatial Information Scientists and Technologists
- Heavy Equipment Mechanics
- Pest Control Workers
- Precision Agriculture Technicians
- Remote Sensing Scientists and Technologists
- Small Engine Mechanics
- Sustainability Specialists
Program Admission
You can prepare for this program of study by getting your high school diploma or GED.
Below is a list of high school courses that will help prepare you for this program of study:
- Agriculture Work Experience
- Business Computer Applications
- Business Management
- Diesel Mechanics and Repair
- Electricity and Electronics
- General Math
- Introduction to Auto Repair
Typical Course Work
Program Courses
This program typically includes courses in the following subjects:
- Buying and Purchasing
- Computer Technology
- Cost Estimating
- Electronics
- Equipment Maintenance and Repair
- Equipment Operation and Installation
- Hydraulics
- Irrigation and Erosion Control
- Maintenance Planning and Scheduling
- Mathematics
- Mechanics
- Pesticide, Herbicide, and Fertilizer Applications
Things to Know
Generally, it takes four or five years of experience to become fully qualified as a farm equipment mechanic. Because farm machinery is complex, with electronic and hydraulic components, some classroom training is necessary. In addition, dealers and manufacturers often sponsor short courses about the equipment that they sell or make.
Many agricultural technology programs are offered part time, with day and evening classes.
For information about farm occupations, opportunities, and 4-H activities, contact your local county extension service office.
Schools
East Side Area
Big Bend Community College
- Agricultural Technology & Management--Agricultural Aerial Unmanned Systems
Walla Walla Community College
- Agri-Business--Agriculture Technology & Production Management (WSU Transfer)
- Agriculture--Precision Agriculture Emphasis
- Irrigation Management
- Irrigation Management--Agricultural Irrigation
- John Deere Technology
Washington State University - Pullman
- Agricultural and Food Systems--Agricultural Technology and Production Management
Wenatchee Valley College
- AgriTechnologies
Yakima Area
Perry Technical Institute
- Agricultural Equipment Technician