What is the difference between an agricultural engineering degree and an agricultural systems degree?
Today, engineers and agricultural systems graduates both work with the same types of buildings and equipment, the same crops and animals, and the global society, yet there is a distinct difference in the work they do. The engineer is trained to analyze and design a process, system, or mechanism, while the agricultural systems graduate is able to identify system problems, formulate possible solutions, analyze the impact of alternatives (including social and economic dimensions), and then implement the best solution. Agricultural systems graduates get a broad and basic background in agriculture and the physical sciences along with courses in economics, business, and management. When comparing agricultural systems to engineering, you will find that agricultural systems programs are less theoretical and more practical. Emphasis is on hands-on experiences with equipment, and many courses have laboratory sections.
