Agreement provides commitment for ag ed major
A new agreement between CFANS and the College reaffirms the University’s commitment to students majoring in agricultural education.
Students who choose the major specialize either in agricultural leadership, training, and development; agricultural science and technology education; or natural and managed environmental education. Currently, about 90 students are enrolled in the major.
The agreement clarifies academic procedures for students who choose the major and reiterates the University’s commitment to the program. Several new faculty are expected to be hired in the immediate future to teach courses in both specializations.
Nationwide, agricultural education graduates are in high demand. Nearly one in four Minnesota ag education teachers will retire in the next four years; the University is the only institution in the state that trains and certifies agriculture teachers. Agribusiness employers also need graduates with a background in agricultural leadership and communications.
The major has been jointly operated by the two colleges. Starting in fall semester 2008, students in the program will be able to keep their academic home in CFANS throughout their college careers, rather than transferring to the other college in order to gain teaching certification.
“Agricultural education is a unique partnership between two academic disciplines,� said Allen Levine, CFANS dean. “This agreement renews our commitment to preparing the agricultural teachers and business leaders of the future.� Dean Bailey says that it is our belief that "this new partnership reflects that the best prepared students need to effectively address the world of agricultural education. We are thrilled that CFANS shares this belief."