How to Become a
Farmer: Education and Career Roadmap
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Do I Want to Be a Farmer?
A farmer plants crops and raises animals. They
harvest and sell their goods to produce markets and food companies both
nationally and internationally. Farming is a precarious industry because it's
influenced by the weather and disease and subject to price vacillations.
Farmers typically work long days, and some of the work can be physically
strenuous. These professionals work outdoors with their hands in most kinds of
weather, and about three-quarters were self-employed in 2014, according to the
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).
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How to Become a Farmer
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The following are four steps
to take to become a farmer:
Step 1: Obtain Relevant Education
Traditionally, many farmers are born into family
farming businesses. Their experience is gained through observation and hands-on
experience from the time they're children. However, the modernization of the
farming industry has made it more necessary for farmers and ranchers to receive
formal education and training as well.
A potential farmer can enroll in a university or
college and major in programs such as agricultural economics, agriculture, farm
management, or dairy science. Students can pursue an associate's degree and
take classes in animal science, conservation of natural resources, farmer
science, and principles of horticulture. A bachelor's degree program may
consist of courses in agricultural economics and agricultural business
management.
Certificate programs in agriculture are also
available and may be ideal for those already working in the field of
agriculture and wishing to expand their knowledge in specific areas, such as
organic farming. Courses of study may include plant diseases, organic farming,
nutritional science, food quality and safety, crop development, and soil
fertility.
Step 2: Acquire Work Experience
Farming students can increase their knowledge of
the industry by participating in internships, which some learning institutions
require. Internships give students practical, hands-on farming experience.
Students may seek assistance from school advisors or faculty in locating
internship opportunities. Additionally, many farmers learn their trade through
on-the-job training by working with a more experienced farmer. For those who
don't have a formal education, some farms offer apprenticeships to teach them
the skills needed to begin a career in farming.
Look for government assistance. The Beginner
Farmer and Rancher Competitive Grants Program, administered by the National
Institute of Food and Agriculture, offers inexperienced farmers an opportunity
to work as an intern or apprentice. This can help prospective farmers gain
experience and learn more about the farming industry.
Step 3: Become Certified
Farmers or farm managers can seek the Accredited
Farm Manager certification through the American Society of Farm Managers and
Rural Appraisers. Applicants must successfully complete a four-part
certification examination as well as a test of the code of ethics. A minimum of
a bachelor's degree in the agricultural field and four years of farming experience
are also required to obtain this credential.
Step 4: Enroll in Continuing Education Courses
Continuing education courses are designed to
improve and enhance a farmer's skills. Some schools offer continuing education
courses in agriculture for those who have obtained their degrees. Programs are
flexible and designed for busy farmers and agricultural professionals.
Technical classroom or laboratory instruction may be given as part of the
continuing education course.