Business – Agriculture (Co-op and Non Co-op Version)

Grow your business skills for a career in the increasingly complex agriculture industry. The two-year Business - Agriculture Ontario College Diploma program combines agriculture with business and management training, providing you with the skills necessary to successfully operate a farming operation or to provide services to agricultural businesses. Agriculture is an increasingly complex industry, with sophisticated agribusiness managers required to make decisions about crop/herd selection and improvement, pest and soil management, equipment maintenance, farm safety and agricultural production. At the same time, there is a growing need for skills and knowledge to apply management concepts related to agricultural financial administration, human resources, operational efficiency, government regulations, technology, sales and marketing. Through this program, you examine agricultural techniques through a business lens. Focus on:

• developing fundamental research
• financial and operations skills to evaluate farm production methodologies
• technologies and systems in order to inform business decisions

You have opportunities to apply your knowledge and skills through activities, simulations, case studies and interactions with professionals in active farm operations. Students also have the option to gain real-world experience through a paid co-operative education (co-op) work term (see Additional Information for more details). Please note that places in the co-op version of the program are subject to availability. Graduates may seek employment in entry-level farming positions or as entrepreneurs. Graduates may also seek entry-level employment in a variety of companies and organizations that provide services in the agricultural sector, including businesses providing:

• agricultural supplies
• feed
• banking, accounting or logistical services
• process improvement or animal care support
• equipment and maintenance sales and services

SUCCESS FACTORS

This program is well-suited for students who:

• Are well organized and can work effectively under tight time constraints.
• Are team oriented and enjoy working with others.
• Are dedicated to food safety and sustainability.
• Are excited by the prospect of taking a hands-on approach to learning and interacting with industry partners and business leaders.