Learn, Manage, Grow

The Agricultural Ecosystem Sciences (AES) program prepares students to serve as responsible stewards of our agricultural production system, increasing yields and optimizing agricultural ecosystem benefits for society.

From the classroom to the field, you will develop a strong foundation in agricultural production systems, including plant and soil sciences, animal sciences, pest management, and agricultural economics. Our customizable undergraduate degree program allows you to develop the technical skills needed to manage high-yielding production systems while minimizing environmental impact.

You can choose from five technical specializations and four applied specializations. Technical specializations include agricultural economics and policy; applied plant biology; GIS and technical support; sampling, testing and analysis; and agricultural business management. Applied specializations include crop production, animal production systems, soil use and water management, and pest management.

Careers

The Agricultural Ecosystem Sciences degree will prepare you for opportunities in agriculture, conservation, and business, in addition to industry, academics, and government, such as:

  • Agribusiness manager
  • Agricultural producer
  • Agricultural sales agent
  • Agronomist
  • Conservation specialist
  • Crop protection specialist
  • Extension agent
  • Farm manager
  • Field scout
  • Precision agriculture specialist
  • Research scientist

Accelerate Your Career Into Graduate School

For highly motivated students, the opportunity exists to integrate up to 12 credit hours of undergraduate and graduate coursework through the Accelerated Master’s Pathways or AMP program. Students will save time and money by receiving dual credit for select courses taken during their senior year of undergraduate studies. Those interested in pursuing this path to a graduate degree should consult with their academic advisor.

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The AES Community

Our priority is student success. Comprised of students, faculty, and staff, the AES community strives to help students reach their full potential. We work closely with students to help them identify the pathway that best fits their professional goals. Our faculty and staff play an active role in mentoring students. Whether through teaching in the classroom, serving as career and professional development mentors, or guiding research projects or internships, we connect with students one on one.

Student flying a drone in a field
Agricultural Ecosystem Sciences Summer Experience

Agriculture's Grand Challenge

The AES program prepares students to produce food, feed, fiber, and fuel to sustain a growing population in the face of climate variability while minimizing environmental impact. Our students work to face this challenge through internships and research projects that help advance the development of efficient and sustainable production practices.

Experiential Learning

Hands-on learning is at the heart of what we do in AES. Our program provides students with opportunities to practice what they learn in the classroom in real-world settings. Our students develop the essential employability skills needed to meet the demands of the industry.

AES 101 Introduction to Agricultural Ecosystem Sciences

Students learn about the AES major and explore career options with practicing professionals.

AES 320 Field Experience

Over a two-week period, students learn about agricultural management principles from practicing professionals.

AES 395 or 399 Research or Experiential Learning in AES

Students gain real-word experience through an internship or research with a faculty mentor.

AES 490 Senior Capstone

Working with practicing professionals, students complete a semester-long project focused on a current issue in agricultural production.

Living Learning Program

The Living Learning Program (LLP) supports student success by placing students with similar interests into smaller communities in particular residence halls.

Academic Enrichment

Our college believes in learning by doing. Our students are required to complete at least one type of experiential or hands-on learning opportunity, such as undergraduate research, an internship or an education abroad experience.

Scholarships

Thanks to generous alumni, donors and community partners, we have one of the largest scholarship programs at UK. Only one application is required for our college’s scholarships, but there are hundreds of potential awards.

Student Services

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Academic Advisor II
Andrew Bond

Director of Undergraduate Studies
David McNear, PhD

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