Brookings Main Campus
Feed the world.
The agronomy major provides broad training in the crop and soil sciences. Agronomy involves the science of producing and using plants in agriculture for food, feed, fuel, fiber and land restoration. We offer a high-quality education and training experience for undergraduates to equip them with the knowledge and skills needed to be successful in pursuing well-paid and highly respected careers.
This program provides students with an integrated understanding of crop development and management, entomology, natural resource management, plant breeding, plant pathology, weed science, seed technologies, soils and crop production systems with precision agriculture integrated into many areas. The major also prepares students for entry agricultural careers throughout the United States and into research and graduate study in plant science and other related fields.
The agronomy major prepares students for many careers, such as crop consulting, precision agriculture, sales and marketing, seed production, grain production, ecosystem management, product research and development, seed testing and soil and natural resource conservation. There are tremendous opportunities for agronomy majors!
Is it for you?
This program will be a good fit if you:
- Are interested in agricultural, food or natural resource industries.
- Like working with computers and other precision technology.
- Want to help others by practicing sustainable farming.
- Want to discover new ways to produce safe, nutritious foods.
- Are involved in 4-H, FFA or other agriculture-related activities.
Career Opportunities
- Crop consulting
- Crop/plant research
- Agronomy, seed, chemical and precision tools sales and service
- Natural Resources Conservation Service
Recent Employers
- CHS Cooperative
- Pioneer / Corteva
- Bayer Crop Sciences
- Syngenta
- Winfield Solutions
Internship Opportunities
- Regional agricultural retail suppliers
- CHS Cooperative
- Syngenta
- Pioneer / Corteva
- Bayer Crop Sciences
Suggested Certificates
Suggested Dual Majors
Suggested Minors
Clubs and Organizations
- Crops Judging Team
- Soil Judging Team
- Agronomy and Conservation Club
- Little International
- Student Society of Arboriculture
Undecided or still deciding on a major and future career?
If you are uncertain about your major and have questions about career planning, you are not alone. Choosing a major or career can be a very difficult decision. The exploratory studies program may be a good fit if you are unsure of your major and career focus. Entering the university in the exploratory studies program will help you gain confidence and valuable insights on majors and minors available at SDSU and future career choices.
In addition, FOCUS 2 Career, a self-guided assessment, education and career planning program, will help you reflect on your values, interests, personality traits and skills to provide valuable insight as you explore major and career choices. SDSU students may access FOCUS 2 Career by using their student email and password. After completing FOCUS 2 Career, you may find it helpful to discuss your results with a career coach in the Office of Career Development.