Agriculture

Statement of Purpose

The Agriculture and Agribusiness programs at Texas Southmost College prepare students for rewarding careers and transfer into four-year university programs. Students gain the scientific, business, and technical knowledge needed to succeed in modern agriculture — one of the most innovative and globally connected industries in Texas.

Upon successful completion of the program, students may earn an:

• Associate of Science-Agribusiness, or
• Associate of Science-Agriculture

Who the Program Serves

The program welcomes students from all backgrounds who are interested in agriculture, agribusiness, and natural resources.

Our students include:

• Individuals planning to enter the workforce directly after completing their associate degree
• Students intending to transfer to a four-year university to pursue bachelor’s degrees in agriculture, plant and soil sciences, animal sciences, agribusiness, or natural resource sciences

If you are interested in exploring whether this program is right for you, contact one of our academic advisors today.

Skills and knowledge you will gain

Students will gain foundational knowledge in:

• agricultural systems and practices;
• plant and soil sciences;
• animal science and sustainable livestock production;
• the role of technology and the environment in agricultural systems; and
• economic principles applied to production, marketing, and agribusiness management.

Graduates of the program will be able to:

• demonstrate understanding of plant and animal biology and their interactions with the environment;
• investigate methods and impacts of environmental management and emerging technologies in agricultural production;
• apply economic and business concepts to agriculture, including marketing, management, and policy; and
• communicate effectively about agricultural systems, sustainability, and global food production.

Career Options

Graduates are prepared for a variety of entry-level positions in agriculture and agribusiness, including:

• Agricultural Technicians
• Crop Production Specialists
• Soil and Plant Scientists
• Farm and Ranch Managers
• Agricultural Science Instructors (Secondary and Post-Secondary Education)
• Agribusiness Sales Representatives
• Extension or Field Technicians

Students may also continue their education toward a bachelor’s degree in agriculture, agribusiness, horticulture, agricultural economics, or related fields.

Job search assistance

TSC connects students to high-wage, high-demand jobs by aligning academic and continuing education pathways to the workforce. The program provides valuable experiences that make our graduates exceptionally marketable, such as:

• Experiential Learning:Hands-on opportunities at TSC’s community garden, greenhouse, and regional field sites help students apply classroom learning in real-world settings.
• Local Industry Connections:Students are encouraged to explore potential internships and volunteer opportunities with local partners such as the Brownsville Wellness Coalition, Texas A&M AgriLife Research and Extension Center in Weslaco, and the Texas A&M–Kingsville Citrus Center in Weslaco.
• Job Fairs: Each spring TSC hosts a job fair that features more than 70 employers, all looking for the next generation of qualified candidates. Students and alumni are invited to bring their resumes and strengthen their contacts in their chosen fields.
• Career Services: TSC’s Transfer, Career, and Employment Services team assists students in mapping out college transfers, shaping career aspirations, and aiding in post-graduation job placements. Their services encompass guidance on job hunts, crafting compelling resumes and cover letters, and conducting interest inventory evaluations. More information may be found here.

Funding your education

Texas Southmost College remains the most affordable institution of higher education in the entire Rio Grande Valley. When we talk about financial literacy, we talk about accumulating wealth, not debt. If you want to make a good return on investment, Think TSC, and study local.

TSC offers a number of grants and scholarships for those who qualify.

• Applying for scholarships is easy. Submit one application, and you are automatically matched with all of the scholarships you qualify for at TSC. Click here to learn more about the TSC scholarship portal.
• Federal financial aid is available through grants, loans, and work-study opportunities. Applying for financial aid is free! Click here to learn more.

FAQ

How long does it take to complete the program?
Most students complete the associate degree program in two years of full-time study.

How much time will I need to commit to coursework and assignments?
Students will engage in a combination of lecture, laboratory, and field work experiences that require consistent engagement both in and outside of class. Students should budget three hours of study time outside of class for every one hour of agriculture coursework. For example, students enrolled in a four-hour course should expect to spend 12 hours studying outside of the classroom per week.

Are there opportunities to gain hands-on experience?
Yes. Students participate in on-campus and local agricultural activities, including the TSC community garden, greenhouse operations, and opportunities to connect with local agricultural professionals.

How do I apply to the program?

To apply, complete the ApplyTexas application and follow the admissions process. If you need assistance, our advisors are available to guide you through the steps.

Request more information about Texas Southmost College, our programs, or upcoming events.