The certificate course will start in the spring 2025 semester
The University of Kentucky will begin offering a course dedicated to agricultural leadership.
Beginning in the spring 2025 semester, all students in all majors can enroll in the Agricultural Leadership certificate course.
“Growing the next generation of leaders in agriculture requires intentional cultivation. This certificate provides a foundation in leadership focused on contemporary issues in agriculture, agricultural business, and food production,” the course’s webpage says.
The 12-hour course consists of three mandatory components.
Agricultural Leadership Foundations is an exploration of leadership in the context of agricultural industries.
Agricultural Leadership Experience is to document one or more ag leadership experiences for program completion.
And Agricultural Leadership Applications is “an exploration of current and emergent challenges in the industries within Agriculture, Food, and the Environment and what skills must be developed to become an effective agent of change,” the course listing says.
In addition, students must complete two electives: one related to leadership activities, and one focusing on communications.
“We want to work with students to curate a valuable leadership experience that will allow them to get the most out of the certificate,” Emily Roe Brown, Kentucky Agricultural Leadership Program coordinator, said in a statement. “This program is designed to empower students to see themselves as change agents.”
The University of Kentucky isn’t the only post-secondary institution to offer ag leadership opportunities.
North Carolina State University, for example, has a similar program.
“Coursework includes topics covering an introduction to leadership theory, personal leadership development, team leadership, organizational leadership skills and professional presentations,” the program description says.
Fort Hays State University in Kansas has an ag leadership option on its Bachelor of Science in Agriculture program.
“Through this multidisciplinary program, you will combine agriculture and leadership theory and practical experience to find your voice as an agriculture professional and prepare you for a successful future in this dynamic and rapidly changing industry,” the school’s website says.
For anyone looking to apply their ag leadership skills in a professional setting, check out AgCareers.com.