Program Overview

Program Overview

The Master of Agriculture (MAgr) in Agricultural Development is designed for students seeking professional graduate training with a management orientation in agriculture, food, and natural resources. This program emphasizes problem-solving skills involved in the use of science and technology to benefit humanity, rather than a research degree. It is intended for students pursuing careers in fields such as instructional design, agricultural leadership, or rural community development.

Program Details

• The program is offered by the College of Agriculture & Life Sciences, Department of Agricultural Leadership, Education, and Communications at Texas A&M University.
• It is available in a 100% remote, online option, allowing for at-home degree completion.
• The program requires 36 semester credit hours and is 100% asynchronous, providing flexibility in student schedules.

Course Plan and Requirements

• The program includes four core curriculum courses:
  • ALEC 610: Principles of Adult Education
  • ALEC 615: Philosophy of Agricultural Education
  • ALEC 640: Methods of Technological Change
  • ALEC 695: Frontiers in Research
• A content examination is administered at the end of the first year of graduate work upon completion of the four required core courses.
• Other degree plan requirements include a professional paper, which is different from a traditional thesis or dissertation.
• An internship is a unique feature of the MAg program, providing meaningful, applied, and practical experience. It can be completed at the end of formal coursework and involves either paid or unpaid employment with a cooperating business or agency.

Program Features

• Dual Degree Option: No
• Thesis or Dissertation Required: No
• Main Method of Study: Face-to-Face / Distance education
• Required Tests: None (writing samples are required instead)

Related Programs

• International Agriculture: A stand-alone certificate program available at College Station.

Program Outcomes

The program prepares individuals for leadership roles in education, natural resource management, cooperative extension service, and many other professional careers in agriculture and life sciences. The courses emphasize the development of problem-solving skills involved in applying science and technology to benefit humanity.