Program Overview

Associate Diploma in Agriculture | Ridgetown Campus

Why choose a 2-year Associate Diploma in Agriculture?

As the agriculture industry evolves, so does the need for skilled professionals to ensure sustainable food production. At Ridgetown Campus, our two-year associate diploma program offers hands-on learning in agricultural production. Interested in crops, animals, business, and environmental sustainability? This skills-oriented program combines practical experience in agricultural production with technical and scientific information.

Areas of Focus

• Customize your studies with electives by specializing in:
  • Crops
  • Livestock
  • Business
  • Resource management
• Or by mixing and matching courses to gain a broad range of skills across all areas.

Co-op Option

• Complete one paid summer work term to build your professional network.
• Receive support, including a preparatory course and guidance from a Co-op Coordinator.

Unique On-Campus Amenities

• Ridgetown Campus is located on a 450-acre Agricultural Research Station providing access to experiential learning grounds with a fully operational farm.
• The farm includes research plots and 4 teaching barns that house our dairy, beef, sheep, swine, and equine.

Benefits of having an Associate Diploma in Agriculture

• 97% employment rate within 6 months post-graduation: After gaining experience from leading experts and industry professionals, graduates launch careers in farm and resource management, primary production, agri-sales, crop advisors, and more.
• Prepare for key industry certifications: Our program provides a solid foundation for preparing for essential industry certifications, including the Certified Crop Adviser, Pesticide Applicator Certification, Farm Safety and Equipment Operation Certification, and Nutrient Management Certification.
• Transfer Pathway: Diploma to BSc. Agriculture Degree: Graduates of this program can be given multiple course credits toward the Bachelor of Science in Agriculture program at the University of Guelph, reducing your bachelor's program by 1 to 2 years.

Program Details

• The Associate Diploma in Agriculture is a two-year program.
• The program combines hands-on learning with technical and scientific information.
• Students can customize their studies with electives in areas such as crops, livestock, business, or resource management.
• A co-op option is available, providing students with paid work experience and professional networking opportunities.
• The program is located on a 450-acre Agricultural Research Station, providing access to experiential learning grounds and a fully operational farm.