Agribusiness

Faculty:

Thomas C. Slane, Jr., Chairperson

Agribusiness, the global agricultural-food system, accounts for nearly twenty percent of the U.S. economy and employs almost one-fifth of the work force. Agribusiness firms need well-trained employees prepared in both management and agricultural sciences. These key people will manage the businesses that provide supplies and services to producers and firms that transform and market raw agricultural products into food and fiber products for consumers and byproducts for industrial use.

Agribusiness students develop knowledge in business and agriculture, management expertise, leadership ability and creativity in thought, problem solving and expression. Student abilities are expanded through the comprehensive program of course work, employment experience, and participation with agribusiness professionals. The learning environment is extended to the resource people and facilities of industry and government throughout the northeastern region.

This curriculum provides training, encouraging students to be involved with the social, economic, political, as well as the technological changes taking place in the world. Students will be prepared for careers in food, agribusiness, and the environment. Recent graduates in Agribusiness have landed positions in the following areas: Financial Consultant, Training and Publication Specialist, Flock Manager, Crop Consultant, Farm Market Manager, Nursery Manager, Animal Health Product Sales, Pharmaceutical Sales, Plant Protection Quarantine Officer, Quality and Water Analyst, and Product Research and Development.

Students are advised to select minor, specialization or elective courses which enable them to focus on an area of their personal interest. For example, Agribusiness: Supply and Service students may want to consider Agronomy and Environmental Science, Restaurant and Foodservice Management, Horticulture or Ornamental Horticulture and Environmental Design. Agribusiness: Marketing and Management students may want to consider Accounting, Financial Services, or Marketing.

The total number of credits required for graduation with a degree in Agribusiness is 128, which includes 4 credits for completion of the Experiential Learning Program.

The Experiential Learning Program (ExLP) at Delaware Valley College is a graduation requirement for all full-time undergraduate students. Students can choose from multiple experiential learning activities and will earn 4 credits for the ExLP depending on their major’s program requirements.

Minimum requirements:

• Full-time undergraduate students must complete a minimum of two experiential learning activities with at least one for academic credit.

• Students must have completed 27 credits to enroll in Experiential Learning Activities.

• All students must complete an introductory course prior to enrolling in any Experiential Learning Activities.

Students must consult with their Department Chair for specific major requirements to complete the Experiential Learning Program.

Agribusiness

Programs