Do you have a green thumb? Do you enjoy working with animals? Are you interested in geology? Are you passionate about protecting the environment? Do you enjoy working out of doors? Then a career in agriculture and natural resources might be right for you.

Jobs in the agriculture and natural resources career cluster involve planning, managing, and performing agricultural production, horticulture and landscaping services, and related professional and technical services; planning, managing, and performing mining and extraction operations; managing and conserving natural resources; and performing related environmental services.

Ag Careers

Possible careers include:

• Animal breeder
• Logger
• Fish and game warden
• Groundskeeper
• Greenhouse manager
• Farm manager
• Animal trainer

BC Programs - Agricultural Programs

Agriculture & Business Management

The agribusiness industry accounts for nearly one-fifth of the U.S. gross national product and employs close to one-fourth of the U.S. labor force. On the domestic scene alone, we are witnessing the consolation of farms and ranches into larger, more efficient operations that are increasingly industrialized with more sophisticated management. An Agribusiness major prepares for the growing, fast-paced agriculture environment of the future. Students study economics and accounting, marketing, law and policy, production agriculture and management, all of which then take into account technology and environmental regulations.

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• Associate in Arts
• Associate in Science
• Certificate of Achievement

Animal Science

A degree in Animal Science combines different disciplines - animal nutrition, genetics, behavior, and reproductive physiology - with hands on, practical applications for the livestock, poultry and companion animal industries. Animal Science prepares students for many career opportunities. The major coursework combines theory and practical applications for all of the species common to the livestock and poultry industries. The flexibility of the Animal Science curriculum is the basis for student learning and understanding. In today's technology- driven world, the ability to integrate scientific knowledge with the principles of business is what allows our students to respond to the rapid changes they will face in their future careers.

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• Associate in Arts
• Associate in Science
• Certificate of Achievement

Crop Science

Crop science is the study of growing and managing various crops, such as corn and cotton, lettuce and broccoli, and many more. It involves the management of irrigation and equipment, timing of planting and harvesting, plant and insect pest management, fertilization, post-harvest handling and marketing, and all the other aspects of efficiently producing food and fiber. Crop science is a dynamic field with new developments continuing in such areas as post-harvest technology, plant biotechnology, integrated pest management, and precision farming. It requires a breadth of understanding, from basic biology and ecology to precision instruments for analysis of plant tissues, post-harvest storage atmospheres, and other substances. The crop scientist is also working to develop cropping systems that are profitable and ecologically sustainable, including safer methods of controlling weeds and pests. Do you want to help feed the world? Study crop science and know that you are helping out. The 21st century will be driven by the need to feed and clothe a growing world population while using methods that ensure the continued productivity of our farmland. And, while there might be a shortage of land for the growing of crops, there is no shortage when it comes to growing solutions. Worldwide demand for trained men and women in plant biotechnology, integrated pest management, precision farming, post-harvest technology, research and development, consulting and marketing is growing everyday.

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• Associate in Arts
• Associate in Science
• Certificate of Achievement

Environmental Horticulture

Environmental Horticulture is one of the fastest-growing segments of agriculture in the nation and professionals in all aspects of this active "green" industry are in high demand. Whether you are interested in greenhouse or nursery production, retailing or marketing products, golf course/turf management, or any aspect of the landscape industry, this is your field. Professionals in this industry are responsible for the production, utilization, and maintenance of trees, flowers, shrubs, houseplants, and turf grasses that are used to enhance the environment. The Environmental Horticulture industry in California is a multibillion-dollar business. California is the location of some of the largest nurseries, greenhouses, and landscape maintenance companies in the United States and ranks second among states in the number of golf courses.

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• Associate in Arts
• Associate in Science
• Certificate of Achievement

Forestry

The program provides a broad general experience in the arts and science to develop an individual with a well-rounded education, and a core of basic courses, which furnish the student with a perspective of the scientific and professional area of forestry, natural resources, fisheries and wildlife. The pre-forestry, resources conservation and wildlife management program at Bakersfield College should conform to the recommended program as prescribed by the school to which the student wishes to transfer. Students planning to go to work after completing a 2-year degree should complete the A.S. degree. The forestry and Natural Resources major will prepare you for an important role in the protection, management, and development of our forest and natural resources.

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• Associate in Arts
• Associate in Science
• Certificate of Achievement

BC Department Websites

To further explore career possibilities in this career pathway, try these sites:

Professional Associations

If an association has a website, you may find the information you need there. You may also write to request helpful career information. Be sure to include a stamped, self-addressed envelope.

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