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Certificate in Crops, Soils & Natural Resources

Department of Agriculture

College of Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics

Certificate in Crops, Soils & Natural Resources

Department of Agriculture

College of Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics

On-Campus

Program

12 Credit Hours

to Graduate

Full-Time, In-State Tutition

$410 Per Credit Hour

Free Books

for All Students

Gain the Skills Needed to Join the Agroforest Industry

EKU’s Certificate in Crops, Soils and Natural Resources is designed to prepare students with degrees in related fields such as forestry, environmental sciences or biology with the skills needed to enter the agroforest industry. Specialize in food production, energy production, or the environment in a variety of employment opportunities including commercial businesses, government agencies, educational institutions, and the private sector. In addition, the program will assist students in obtaining some of the basic requirements for careers in federal or state agroforestry-oriented agencies.

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Career Outlook


Overall employment of agricultural and food scientists is projected to grow 6 percent from 2022 to 2032, faster than the average for all occupations.

About 3,000 openings for agricultural and food scientists are projected each year, on average, over the decade.

The employment of agricultural and food scientists is projected to grow as research into agricultural production methods continues. The need to address challenges such as increased demand for water resources, combating pests and pathogens, and changes in climate and weather patterns is expected to create jobs. Demand for agricultural products, including biofuels, also is expected to contribute to employment growth.

– U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

A degree in agronomy can open the door to a wide variety of career options across the industry spectrum.

Job Titles Include:

  • Soil scientist
  • Food scientist
  • Plant scientist

EKU agriculture graduates work in a variety of fields and positions.

Employers Include:

  • U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA)
  • Kentucky Department of Agriculture
  • Tyson Foods
  • Neogen Corporation
  • Southern States Cooperative
  • Mt. Folly Enterprises
  • Cooperative Extension Service
  • Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS)

The Office of Academic and Career Services is a one-stop shop for all your career and professional development needs.

Services Include:

  • Creating/updating your resume and cover letter
  • Interviewing tips and coaching
  • Career documents review
  • Job search

Why EKU?

  • Free textbooks through EKU BookSmart
  • No application fee
  • Reduced tuition for active-duty military members and their spouses
  • Earn credit for a directed work experience or applied learning on a university farm or at another approved facility
  • Several departmental scholarships
  • Membership opportunities in the Agriculture Club, Horticulture Club, National Association of Landscape Professionals, and Delta Tau Alpha Honor Society
  • Fast-track opportunities for students with 80 or more credit hours
  • Generous credit transfer policy

Curriculum & Enrollment


Learn essential skills for today’s agricultural careers. Our programs are made up of high-quality courses and taught by experienced professors. EKU’s curriculum blends academic and professional preparation through course topics such as plant science and identification, agricultural equipment operation, sustainable energy systems, principles of soils, pest management, agricultural economics, agribusiness, conservation, biology, chemistry, computer systems and applications, irrigation and horticultural equipment, horticultural retail and wholesale management, post-harvest technology, greenhouse management, and horticultural issues.

A minimum of 12 credits are required to graduate.

View the degree requirements:

Please review the admissions requirements before applying for this or any program. If you have questions about the program or are planning to register for classes, please speak to the program advisor.

All applicants must provide an application and evidence of appropriate scholastic achievement through prior educational experience.

Please note that certain degree programs have special admission requirements. Admission to the University does not mean automatic admission to all degree programs.

The completed application and all required supporting documentation must be received by the University no later than:

• August 1 for fall enrollment
• December 1 for spring enrollment
• May 1 for summer enrollment

To apply for undergraduate admission to Eastern Kentucky University (EKU), submit an application at apply.eku.edu and submit your materials noted below electronically or by mail to:

Office of Admissions
Eastern Kentucky University
Whitlock Bldg. 112, CPO 54
521 Lancaster Avenue
Richmond, KY 40475-3154.

Enrolling & Advising Information


EKU’s College of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics is committed to delivering high-quality enrollment and academic advising for our students. We strive to create an atmosphere of mutual trust and meaningful engagement to help students reach their academic goals and have a rewarding educational experience.

Interested in enrolling? Reach out to our college enrollment counselor today.

Photo of Aida Bermudez

Aida Bermudez

College Enrollment Counselor

859-622-2902
aida.bermudez@eku.edu


Student Stories & Features

Madeline Bentsen

EKU Forensic Science Graduate
The faculty was tough and fair, they wanted me to succeed and they pushed me to think critically and logically. However, they were very understanding and cared deeply for their students. They helped to prepare me for the field of forensics and helped me strengthen my weaknesses.
photo of Brad Rich

Brad Rich

EKU Forensic Science Graduate
The thing that I feel like many people, including myself, find surprising about the program is how encompassing it is. It’s not all chemistry or biology but also public speaking and critical thinking incorporated with mock trial and capstone that truly prepare you for the field of forensic science. After graduating I realized just how well I was prepared by the faculty in my program, making the transition from education to career seamless.

Madison High

EKU Environmental and Applied Geology Graduate
My degree provided me with the knowledge I needed to get a solid start to my career. I was able to get a job with the Kentucky Geological Survey within a few months of graduating and I am thrilled to be working for them. I also took the ASBOG Fundamentals of Geology exam shortly after graduating and passed it on my first try.

Upcoming Events


News & Updates

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Cattle and hogs are raised at Eastern Kentucky University’s (EKU) 720-acre Meadowbrook Farm, located less than 10 miles from campus. The meat from the livestock is then sold to EKU […]

Contact Information

Department of Agriculture

521 Lancaster Avenue
A.B. Carter Building, Room 2
Richmond, KY 40475

859-622-2228
Fax: 859-622-6676
agriculture@eku.edu