Agricultural Leadership, Education and Communications, MS
The Master of Science in Agricultural Leadership, Education and Communications allows students to build on their previous academic and professional experiences through flexible online or in-person options in four areas: leadership, agricultural education, extension, and communications.
Program Overview
The Department of Agricultural Leadership, Education and Communications develops educators, leaders, and communicators to meet the growing demand for careers in agriculture and natural resources pathways.
A master’s degree in agricultural leadership, education and communications builds on professional and leadership experiences by providing students with real-world experience and innovative research opportunities to sharpen skills in education, communications, leadership, and Extension while preparing students to elevate their careers.
Both online and in-person degree programs allow for a flexible schedule for students to optimize their learning experience while working full-time. Students will continue to build upon and polish their skills in professional development, research, and agriculture and natural resources.
Concentrations
Students can choose between four distinct concentration areas: agricultural leadership, agricultural education, Extension education, and agricultural communications. Students can also take courses across multiple disciplines.
Why study Agricultural Leadership, Education and Communications?
Career Advancement and Leadership Development
A master’s degree in agricultural leadership, education, and communications provide students with a well-rounded education and skills to promote career excellence and advancement. The experiences in the graduate program prepare students for a variety of careers from Extension agents to farm managers, agricultural communications specialists, and agricultural lobbyists.
State-of-the-Art Research Opportunities
A multitude of research opportunities are available for master’s students to gain valuable experience towards master’s theses. Research spans topics surrounding virtual reality in education, crisis communications, international agriculture studies, and current agricultural issues.
A Flexible Degree
Agricultural leadership, education and communications is one of the only departments within the Herbert College of Agriculture to offer an online master’s degree. Through this asynchronous degree program, students can pursue a general degree in all four concentrations while maintaining their full-time position.
What can you do with a degree in Agricultural Leadership, Education and Communications?
There are several ways for students to advance their skill sets and grow professionally through the diverse concentrations offered. Students can pursue career advancement in the following fields: Extension, higher education, corporate leadership, politics, strategic communications—the list goes on!
Featured Courses
ALEC 520 – Leadership Development in Organizations and Community Nonprofit
Application of concepts related to developing leaders for organizing and maintaining Extension and community nonprofit organizations. The foundation of this course is grounded in traditional and contemporary leadership philosophies and practices, but emphasizes leadership in agricultural professions.
ALEC 532 – Introduction to Agricultural Communications
Understanding the role of agricultural communicators. Explore elements of written, visual, and digital communication methods to interact with agricultural audiences.
ALEC 533 – Teaching and Learning Theory: Applications in Agricultural Disciplines
Introduction to theories of teaching and learning and related research. Explores the neuroscience of learning, behaviorism, social cognitive theory, information processing theory, constructivism, cognitive learning processes, experiential learning, motivation, self-regulation, and developmental theories. Additionally, explores the applications of teaching and learning theory in the context of teaching agricultural subject matter.
ALEC 541 – Communicating in Crisis
Focuses on strategic communication in agricultural and natural resources. Students will explore contemporary agricultural and natural resource issues and discuss the impact public opinion has on the agricultural industry. Through case studies and issues management plans, students will address contemporary issues or challenges, defined as a topic that currently affects individuals’ abilities to lead safe, fulfilling, healthy lives and to contribute to productive societies.
ALEC 545 – Program Planning and Learning Design in Agriscience Education
Overview of program planning and learning design of school-based agricultural education.
ALEC 585 – Global Sustainable Development Goals
The United Nations’ (UN) Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) were adopted in 2015 and provide a framework and direction for all countries of the world towards 17 common global goals. Will present each of the SDGs, look at global progress towards each SDG, and provide opportunities for students to explore the synergies of the SDGs. This course will provide students with the opportunities to reflect on these goals and participate in multidisciplinary teams to develop action plans for addressing multiple SDGs as individuals and for the UT community.
Are you interested in this degree online?
Visit Vols Online to learn more about pursuing a master’s degree in agricultural leadership, education and communications online.
Admissions and Aid
Learn more about admissions and aid by visiting the links below.