CASNR ACADEMICS - AN OVERVIEW

Science, technology, business, education, research, production and environment are just a few of all the key elements in America's largest industries - Agriculture and Natural Resources. In order to feed and clothe the five billion people of the world and protect and maintain the environment they live in, the agricultural and natural resources industries need human capital scientists and specialists with needed skills in molecular genetics, human nutrition, soil and water sciences, international marketing, systems analysis, biosystems and agricultural engineering and other specialties.

The diverse careers available in agriculture and natural resources offer many choices, and college graduates are needed to fill a wide variety of jobs in every facet of American agriculture. Graduates are needed in scientific research, marketing, financial services, and the processing of information, as well as production. OSU graduates can be a part of the modern agricultural technology that will bring new discoveries and techniques to the world.

The College of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources prepares students to analyze information, explore opportunities and solve problems. Students are prepared in the science and technology of agriculture, and they also receive a solid general education in communications, humanities and social sciences. In the new agriculture, the graduate will have a rewarding career that will last as long as food is consumed and fiber is grown on this earth.

Accreditation

Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources include broad and diverse professions and do not have a single accrediting society as do some other professions. Programs in agricultural education, agricultural engineering, forestry, landscape architecture and landscape contracting are accredited by their professional organizations.

In addition, each department's program is reviewed at least once every five years by a panel of scientists and other professionals with national or international reputation for excellence in that respective discipline.

Degree Programs

Undergraduate Programs

The Bachelor of Science in Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources degree is offered in the following major fields of study: agribusiness, agricultural communications, agricultural economics, agricultural education, animal science, biochemistry and molecular biology, entomology, environmental science, forestry, horticulture, landscape contracting, plant and soil sciences and pre-veterinary science.

The Bachelor of Landscape Architecture is also offered in the College of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources.

Graduate Programs

Graduate study is available in all academic departments in the College. In addition to the Master of Agriculture and Master of Science degrees which may be obtained through several departments, the Doctor of Philosophy degree (Ph.D.) may be earned in the following areas: agricultural economics, agricultural education (Ed.D.), agricultural engineering, animal breeding, animal nutrition, biochemistry, crop science, entomology, food science, plant pathology, and soil science.

High School Preparation and Admission Requirements

The high school preparation and admission requirements for the College are the same as the general University requirements. A solid background in English, Algebra, and Natural Science is important preparation for the many academic programs in the various agricultural disciplines.

Transfer Students

Students who transfer from an accredited college or two-year college must meet the general University admission requirements. All transferred courses are recorded on the OSU transcript; however, no more than 65 hours from a two-year college will be used to meet the College's degree requirements. Specific departmental requirements needed for graduation are determined by the department in which the student plans to earn his or her degree.

Scholarships

Students enrolled and entering the College of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources were awarded $765,000 in scholarships by the College and its departments for the 2004-2005 academic year. The following areas will be considered in the awarding of scholarships: scholastic standing in high school or college; leadership qualities which have been shown in school, church, community or youth groups; financial need; sincere interest in the various agricultural disciplines.

Academic Advising

All students in the College have the advantage of being advised by a faculty member working in the individual student's academic discipline. Such advisors are readily available to students and work closely with the students throughout their academic careers.

Facilities

The College of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources at Oklahoma State University is fortunate to own and have access to some of the best facilities in the state as well as the nation.

Career Development

Our philosophy is career development begins the day you walk on campus. We will be your partner in developing your career, but your effort and involvement in the process are the key. CASNR has a Career Services office dedicated to working with you on resume writing, interview skills, and career decisions. You have the opportunity to participate in numerous career fairs on campus, interview for internships, and get experience through part-time jobs.

Involvement in clubs and activities related to your major, part-time work, internships, networking with companies and alumni and participating in the on-campus interview program are all activities to help you land that first job. Developing your career is an individual process. We hope you will browse the CASNR Career Services Pages to explore some of the resources available to you.