Science: Agriculture Major
Are you interested in obtaining skills to help manage/ work or own your own farm, becoming an extension agent, veterinarian or working in agriculture education? This A.S of Science: Agriculture degree offers classes for both pathways. The animal and plant science and forestry courses provide basic skills needed to maintain livestock, land and also teaches tree identification. Other classes in the program, such as agribusiness and welding can provide skills needed to handle farm finances and farm maintenance or provide an avenue of additional income. For those interested in either obtaining a four-year degree in veterinary sciences, agriculture education or becoming an extension agent, this AS program provides the perfect foundation. Almost all of our classes transfer to Virginia Tech, and Ferrum, meaning you would not be losing any credits when transferring after obtaining your AS degree.
The Ag curriculum will be updated to expand electives and change core class requirements for Ag students in Fall 2026. To see what class changes are coming, please email Dr. White at mwhite@virginiawestern.edu and ask for a copy of the NEW updated catalog!
Agriculture Career Studies Certificate
Are you interested in completing a Career Studies Certificate (CSC) in Agriculture? Virginia Western offers this 1-year 6-course CSC for students interested in focusing solely on the core Ag classes that quickly get them a Career Studies Certificate. Students enrolled in the Associate’s degree pathway can also earn an Ag CSC at the same time, as classes within the CSC count towards the Associate degree as well. Students who earn an Ag CSC can later decide to pursue an Associate and all of the CSC courses will count towards their Associate.
Transfer Agreements
Students that graduate from Virginia Western with an associate degree and a minimum grade point average may obtain GUARANTEED admission to more than 30 of the commonwealth’s colleges and universities. Please see this list for copies of the current agreements.
In addition, Virginia Western has entered into the following agreement specific to the Science: Agriculture Specialization program. This list is subject to change, and the most current agreements can be found on our Transfer Agreements page.
- Ferrum College: AS in Science Agriculture Specialization to BS in Agricultural Sciences (PDF)
Safe Farm Steward Project
Virginia Western Community College is the only institution in Virginia qualified to certify your farm as a Safe Farm Steward. This free certification is provided by the University of Kentucky and recognizes a farm’s commitment to Safe Farm Stewardship. As most agricultural injuries occur from large equipment, it never hurts to have a new pair of eyes go over your equipment with you and point out future safety risks that could injure you or a loved one. Learn more about the purpose and process on the Safe Farm Steward website. Ready to certify your farm or nominate someone else’s farm to become a Safe Farm Steward? Get started by clicking the button below.