Master's in Agriculture & Forestry in United States

Agricultural and Biological Engineering

The Department of Agricultural and Biological Engineering at Penn State unites expertise from the College of Agricultural Sciences and the College of Engineering. This interdisciplinary approach focuses on improving food systems and managing natural resources sustainably through engineering and scientific innovation. The department offers undergraduate, master's, and doctoral degrees, fostering collaboration with faculty on pioneering research. Our work is driven by the needs of industry and the community, integrating hands-on learning with research-based instruction. Students engage in meaningful research opportunities across various focus areas, including agricultural production, biological processing, bioproducts, and natural resources engineering. Extension and outreach activities further connect the department's resources with external stakeholders, disseminating the latest research findings.

Biorenewable Systems Graduate Program

The Biorenewable Systems (BRS) graduate program offers Master of Science (M.S.) and Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) degrees focused on integrating science and technology with business principles. This program prepares students to lead advancements in the growing bio-based economy, covering areas like marketing, management, entrepreneurship, and leadership for bio-based products and their supply chains. Leveraging Penn State's expertise, you will conduct novel research on ecological, environmental, and bio-based systems. Graduates are equipped to drive development in key industry sectors including wood products, bio-based fuels, energy, chemicals, plastics, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics. The core of the graduate experience involves completing an independent research thesis or dissertation. Students engage in advanced coursework covering research theory, bioproducts development, biorenewable system analysis, and ethics, alongside their research. Research topics are diverse and can include developing new bio-based products for various sectors, managing soil and water systems, analyzing the life cycle impacts of biorenewables, optimizing agricultural and forest equipment, creating sustainable business models, improving worker safety, and exploring new energy production methods from biomass.

Dairy Science, MS

The University of Wisconsin–Madison's Animal and Dairy Sciences Department offers a Master of Science in Dairy Science. This program is designed to provide comprehensive graduate-level training in dairy science, with a strong emphasis on research and practical application in animal agriculture. Students can choose from various research focus areas, including nutrition, genetics, reproductive physiology, and precision agriculture, often collaborating with other science departments. The program offers flexibility to tailor a course of study to individual student needs and career aspirations, whether pursuing further doctoral studies or entering research-oriented professions. Note: Admissions to the Dairy Science MS are suspended starting Fall 2026 and the program will be discontinued by Fall 2029. Prospective students are encouraged to consider the new Animal and Dairy Sciences MS program starting Fall 2025.

Education, Development, and Community Engagement - Agricultural Education

Food Science, Master of Science

The Food Science Graduate Group at UC Davis offers a Master of Science (M.S.) degree program. This program is designed for students who wish to deepen their understanding of food science through advanced study and research. The curriculum draws on faculty from across multiple colleges and schools within the university, fostering an interdisciplinary approach to the field. Students will engage with core areas of food science, including chemistry, biochemistry, microbiology, processing, and sensory analysis. The program emphasizes the application of scientific principles to enhance food quality, safety, and sustainability.

International Agriculture and Development (INTAD) Dual-Title Graduate Program

The International Agriculture and Development (INTAD) dual-title graduate program is designed for students interested in addressing global issues related to agriculture and development. This program equips students with the knowledge, training, and academic achievement necessary for impactful careers in research, non-profit organizations, government agencies, and corporations worldwide. It emphasizes understanding the complex interrelationships between agriculture and various economic, social, cultural, and political systems, and how these factors influence food security, poverty, and health globally. Students will develop a deeper capacity to connect theoretical knowledge with practical action, fostering leadership skills for diverse international settings. The program aims to enhance intercultural communication skills and build a network of contacts within the academic and international development communities, opening doors to employment, research, and internship opportunities. While prior international experience is not required, the program actively encourages students to gain it through coursework, research, and potential opportunities abroad within the College of Agricultural Sciences.

Master of Agriculture in Horticulture

The Master of Agriculture (MAgr) in Horticulture at Texas A&M University is a professional graduate program designed for students seeking management training and problem-solving skills in the horticultural industry. This non-thesis degree emphasizes critical thinking and communication, preparing graduates for leadership roles. The program is administered by the Department of Horticultural Sciences, adhering to the university's graduate policies. Students will develop a strong foundation through coursework and a required horticultural internship, gaining practical experience and industry-specific knowledge. The curriculum aims to equip individuals with the competencies needed to excel in a horticulture-related career. Admission is open to individuals holding a baccalaureate degree from a recognized institution, or qualified Texas A&M University seniors in their final semester. The program focuses on providing a professional education that directly applies to the demands of the modern horticultural sector.

Master of Science in Agricultural and Biological Engineering

The Master of Science (MS) in Agricultural and Biological Engineering (ABE) program at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign offers advanced studies for students seeking specialized knowledge in this interdisciplinary field. The program focuses on applying engineering principles to agricultural, biological, and environmental systems. It provides a strong foundation for research and development in areas critical to sustainable food production, resource management, and bio-based industries. Students will engage with cutting-edge research and benefit from the expertise of faculty actively contributing to advancements in ABE. This program is designed for individuals who want to deepen their understanding and skills in areas such as bioprocessing, bioenergy, environmental engineering, precision agriculture, and agricultural machinery. Graduates are prepared for leadership roles in industry, government, research institutions, and further academic pursuits. The curriculum emphasizes a rigorous approach to problem-solving, research methodology, and technical innovation within the ABE domain.

Master of Science in International Agricultural Development

The Master of Science (M.S.) degree program in International Agricultural Development (IAD) at UC Davis is designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary for careers in global agricultural and rural development. This interdisciplinary program focuses on enhancing agricultural development, resource management, and rural life, with a particular emphasis on issues relevant to developing countries and less-industrialized regions. Students will learn to implement, facilitate, and manage development programs, and will be prepared to drive biological and technological advancements in agricultural and natural systems to foster social innovation. The program includes both broad foundational knowledge in development issues related to agriculture and the environment, and in-depth study within specific areas.

Master's in Education, Development, and Community Engagement - Agricultural Education

Soil Science Graduate Program

The Soil Science graduate program at Penn State offers opportunities for students interested in soil and related water resources to develop into professional leaders and independent scholars. You will work closely with faculty advisors and committee members to design a study and research program tailored to your specific interests. The department faculty are experts in various subfields of soil science, allowing for specialization in areas such as soil genesis, classification, morphology, microbiology, chemistry, physics, hydrology, and land management.