Diploma in Agronomy
Add value to your business. Produce food, feed, fibre and fuel profitably. Sew the seeds of success. Unleash your inner entrepreneur. Create a field of dreams. These are just a few opportunities available to you when you choose the Diploma in Agronomy program at the University of Saskatchewan.
What is Agronomy?
Using a framework of scientific and economic principles, agronomy examines how to use natural resources efficiently, sustainably and profitably to produce food, feed, fibre and fuel. Agronomy takes a multi-faceted approach to production issues, combining knowledge from crop science, soil science and agricultural economics.
The Diploma in Agronomy is an intensive, two-year program that offers a practical, well-rounded foundation in crop production and soil management. Graduates of this program leave with practical skills in field agronomy and diagnostics, field equipment, and with a broader knowledge of the agricultural sector.
I knew as soon as I transferred into this program that it was a fit for me. It has helped me figure out where I want to be in a few years and put me on the right path.
I enjoy the practical emphasis of my Agronomy courses, and I love having the option of adding in courses from other areas that interest me, like animal science.—Jody Clemens,
First-year Student
The U of S Advantage
The U of S provides a learning environment with an innovative, hands-on approach to education, offered in world-class teaching facilities. Some students and professors from the Department work at the Canadian Light Source using synchrotron radiation to investigate the chemical species of nitrogen and phosphorus present in soils. Others use stable isotopes to examine nutrient cycling in organic farming systems or greenhouse gas emissions. In this unique environment students will learn from distinguished faculty, some of whom are teacher-scholars conducting world-class research and others who are teacher practitioners running their own agribusiness part-time.
The College of Agriculture and Bioresources offers a setting that combines the advantages of a full-scale university with the benefits of a small, specialized program. The small upper-year class sizes and supportive atmosphere allow students to get to know their instructors and fellow students and to build a network of personal and business contacts. Students have numerous opportunities to transfer the theory beyond the classroom; most courses include hands on components such as field trips and class projects that tackle real world issues.
First year students can sign up for a Learning Community (LC) and be pre-registered in three of your classes. LCs are a great way to meet people with similar interests, get advice from student leaders who know the ropes, and make a smoother transition to the University of Saskatchewan.
Students can also take advantage of a number of scholarships and bursaries available exclusively to diploma students at the College of Agriculture & Bioresources.
Choose Your Program!
The Department of Plant Sciences has administrative responsibility for the program and works closely with the Departments of Soil Science and Agriculture and Bioresource Engineering to oversee the curriculum of the diploma.
Students apply directly to the Diploma in Agronomy in the College of Agriculture and Bioresources. The core of the program is made up of a combination of plant science, soil science, and agricultural and bioresource engineering courses. These courses provide graduates with practical skills in field agronomy and diagnostics, field equipment, and with a broader knowledge of the agricultural sector. The restricted electives have been selected to allow students to gain in-depth knowledge of agribusiness and agricultural economics or to broaden their knowledge in plant science, soil science, and agricultural and bioresource engineering.
Agronomy course content includes:
- A comprehensive introduction to cropping options in Western Canada
- Identification and management of crop pests
- Major principles of soil fertility and conservation
- Essential business and leadership skills
- Machine and technology management
Career Opportunities
A Diploma in Agronomy gives students the skills to start up their own business, to lead the family business or to be part of an industry team. Major employment prospects include positions as research technicians, soil conservationists, credit advisors, agribusiness operators or managers, sales representatives, machinery service representatives and extension technicians. Diploma graduates are eligible for professional designation as Agricultural Technologists (AT) with the Saskatchewan Institute of Agrologists.
As agricultural enterprise grows more diverse, technologically advanced and consumer-driven, the industry needs a growing number and variety of qualified workers. The wide-ranging subject matter of agronomy will prepare students for a career in nearly any sector of the industry.
A Stepping Stone...
A Diploma in Agronomy can lead in many directions. In the short term, it will prepare students to pursue their Crop Production Certification (CPA). Graduates are also eligible for a professional designation from the Saskatchewan Institute of Agrologists.
A Diploma in Agronomy is an excellent launching pad for additional university studies or for other professional development. The two-year Diploma in Agronomy ladders directly to the Agronomy major in the Bachelor of Science in Agriculture. Students completing a diploma can choose to do an additional two years of university level study to obtain a B.S.A. (Agronomy Major).
An understanding of agronomy also forms a useful and unique background that will give students an edge in other careers such as commerce, environmental law, scientific journalism, marketing or international development.
What I like about Agronomy is the range of knowledge it includes. I know when I leave here I’ll have a solid foundation to pursue a career in any area of the industry. I couldn’t imagine a more encouraging learning environment than I’ve found at the College.—Doug Rekimowich,
Second-year Student
Getting Involved!
One of the best ways to make the most of your college career is to get involved—and the Agriculture Students’ Association (ASA) is just the way to do it! The ASA is one of the most active and spirited student bodies on campus with activities including everything from debates, to speaker nights, professional development days, Telemiracle fundraisers, and social nights with professors.
In addition, option clubs such as the Horticulture Club, Agricultural Economics & Business Club, and Students in Free Enterprise offer students incredible opportunities to share their interests, plan activities beyond the classroom, and have fun!
Contact US!
We would like to hear from you! For more information about this program and the University of Saskatchewan, including course requirements and program details, contact:
Recruitment & Admissions
University of Saskatchewan
105 Administration Place
Saskatoon SK S7N 5A2
Canada
Tel: 306-966-5788
E-mail: admission@usask.ca
Website: explore.usask.ca
Admission Requirements
The following is a list of high school subjects required for admission. Please select the province/territory where you completed high school.
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