CAREER AND COLLEGE PREP

Agriculture, Food & Natural Resources

Grow Your Career Options

Agriculture has moved a long way from the old family farm. From vertical hydroponics to urban agriculture, you’d be surprised at the diverse opportunities available in this industry. Discover your options today!

Which pathways are offered?

Animal Science—In this pathway, students study the biological processes and physiological systems found in livestock and companion animal species. They also learn the scientific processes of observation, hypothesizing, data gathering, interpretation, analysis, and application.


Food Products & Processing Systems—In this pathway, students apply principles of nutrition, biology, chemistry, and human behavior to the food we eat every day. They also learn to measure, follow recipes, interpret food labels, and identify safe storage and processing techniques.


Natural Resource & Environmental Systems—In this pathway, students learn the foundational principles of ecology to prepare for careers in environmental management, energy, parks and recreation, wildlife, and forestry. Students also develop leadership and communication skills.


Outdoor Recreational Leadership—Through experiential-based learning in the wilderness and collaboration with outdoor professionals, students in this pathway develop and apply outdoor leadership skills to real-life situations, such as backpacking and navigating mountains in winter conditions.

What types of jobs can my student learn about and prepare for?*

Examples of jobs include:

  • Farm manager
  • Rancher
  • Nutritionist
  • Dietician
  • Agriculture teacher
  • Environmental science and protection technician
  • Environmental educator
  • Outdoor trip leader
  • Camp director
  • Geologist
  • Logger
  • Natural sciences manager
  • Soil specialist
  • Solid waste manager
  • Toxicologist
  • Water quality manager

*Some of these jobs require additional education and certifications once a student graduates from high school.

girl planting a small bush

What could my future look like with this career?**

K12003

**Data is from Lightcast and is updated frequently.

Which industry-recognized, in-demand certifications and exams can my student prepare for?

  • Agriculture Science 1
  • Animal Science 1
  • Wildlife First Aid (WFA)