Majors at the University of Connecticut

Agronomy

Agronomy, in the Department of Plant Science, is the study of soils and land use as well as the production and management of turf and field crops. A thorough knowledge of the relationship between soils and the growth of plants is the basis for environmentally sound practices and efficient land use.

There are three concentration choices:

• The turfgrass concentration is designed to provide students basic and applied knowledge in turfgrass science. Students completing the program will be able to apply their skills toward the management of lawns, golf courses, athletic and recreational fields, roadsides, sod farms, erosion control projects, and other areas where turfgrass is utilized. Formal courses in turfgrass science and related topics will be complimented with hands-on training in the establishment, management, and maintenance of turf for various purposes.
• The goal of the crop science concentration is to achieve an understanding of the processes involved in the production of agricultural crops, their quality, and the ecological systems involved in their management. Students who chose this concentration have the opportunity to obtain a background in the biological, chemical, and agricultural sciences.
• Soil science, the third concentration focuses on educating students about the needs of crop production as well as the role of soils in ecological processes. This program provides students with the education and training to prepare them for careers in soils and environmentally related fields.

Academic Department

• UConn's Department of Plant Science

Nature of Work

Because agronomy is broken down into three fields of concentration, the nature of work will vary accordingly. Many Agronomists work in basic or applied research and development programs, or manage marketing or production operations in companies. Some are consultants to business firms, private clients or the government. People in this field will often work in a team-based atmosphere, in a laboratory or research environment. Some positions require national or international travel.

Sample Job Titles

Potential Employers

Federal, state and local governments or agencies employ a large proportion of agronomists. Other potential employers could include forest services, golf courses, athletic and recreational fields, sod farms, research facilities and laboratories, agricultural consulting firms, seed and chemical companies, and private clients.

Useful Skills

All students are trained in soils, chemistry, plant physiology, botany, and turf management. Some skills that are necessary for a particular job within agronomy are communication, interpersonal, knowledge of statistical software, strong analysis abilities, and competence with Microsoft Office and database software.

Getting Experience

Experience can be gained through a variety of internship opportunities with county, state and federal agencies, and commercial companies. Volunteer experiences, such as The Peace Corps may also offer additional opportunities to gain experience in this field. Getting as much related experience is beneficial to allow the student to develop potential job interests, as well as increasing his/her marketability. Research Assistant positions may only require a Bachelor's degree in Plant Science, Horticulture, or Agronomy. Many advanced positions require a minimum of a Master of Science degree or Ph.D.

Employment Opportunities

About 30% of agronomists work for the federal, state and local governments, such as the Department of Agriculture, as well as regional extension agencies and soil conservation departments. Those with a higher education degree can find employment opportunities in research at a college or university, chemical and pharmaceutical companies, and agribusiness and consulting firms. There are even opportunities in the food processing industry.

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