MADISON, FL – North Florida College is cultivating new career opportunities with the launch of its associate in science degree in Agribusiness Management. This two-year, 60-credit-hour program is designed to meet the rising demand for skilled professionals in Florida’s multibillion-dollar agriculture industry, one of the state’s largest and most vital economic sectors.
 
“Agriculture has long been a cornerstone of our region, and this program directly supports the needs of our local economy,” said NFC Dean of Workforce and Economic Initiatives David Dunkle. “We’re proud to offer students a pathway that blends agricultural science with core business principles, preparing them for immediate employment or continued education.” 
 
Florida ranks among the top three states in the nation for agricultural production, supporting over 2 million jobs and generating more than $160 billion in economic impact annually. With over 47,000 farms spanning 9.7 million acres, the need for trained agribusiness professionals in the state continues to grow, particularly in areas such as sustainable farming, citrus and vegetable production, nursery management, agrotechnology and supply chain logistics. 
 
A Smart, Local Investment
 
The Agribusiness Management curriculum includes hands-on instruction in horticulture, irrigation systems, greenhouse operations, ornamental plant identification and pest and disease control. Business-focused coursework in accounting, marketing, finance, law and management gives students the skills to lead operations and make informed decisions in an agricultural enterprise. 
 
Students also develop technical competencies in computer applications and spreadsheet analysis, skills essential for today’s data-driven agricultural economy. 
 
High-Demand Jobs, Competitive Salaries
 
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, agriculture and food scientists earn a median annual wage of $74,940, and agricultural managers earn around $70,000 or more depending on specialization. In Florida, agribusiness careers are on the rise, particularly in farm management, nursery and greenhouse operations and agricultural sales and distribution. 
 
Graduates of NFC’s Agribusiness Management program will be prepared for a range of roles, including:
 
  • Agricultural Supervisor or Manager
  • Farm or Greenhouse Operations Manager
  • Soil and Plant Technician
  • Horticulture or Nursery Manager
  • Sales or Marketing Associate for Agricultural Products
  • Agricultural Business Owner or Entrepreneur
 
The degree also provides a strong foundation for students wishing to transfer to a four-year university to pursue a bachelor’s in agribusiness or related fields. 
 
Enrollment Now Open
 
NFC’s A.S. Agribusiness Management Degree is part of Career and Workforce Education division, which focuses on aligning academic offerings with real-world job markets. NFC’s affordable tuition, personalized advising and rural-focused training make it an ideal fit for students in North Florida and beyond. 
 
For more information about the program or to apply, visit www.nfc.edu/agribusiness or contact NFC Admissions at 850-973-1622.
 
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