Job prospects, interest in environment drawing more college students to agriculture schools

Job prospects drawing students to ag schools

CHAMPAIGN, Ill. — Enrollment at the nation’s largest agriculture schools is increasing, but most of the graduates seem focused more on science and environmental issues than harvesting crops.

A survey by the U.S. Department of Agriculture shows enrollment in bachelor’s degree programs in agriculture grew by nearly 22 percent from 2005 to 2008. Last year, more than 70,000 students nationwide were enrolled in such programs.

Educators say many students choose agriculture majors because of an interest in science and strong job prospects at companies producing seeds and chemicals for farmers.

Companies such as agribusiness giant Monsanto say they can’t hire enough.

Monsanto spokesman Darren Wallis says the company has openings for 100 researchers at its St. Louis headquarters.