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Agricultural Systems Management

Get in Touch
Agricultural Systems Management Dept.
208 Agricultural Engineering Bldg.
Columbia, MO 65211
Phone: 573-882-2126
Fax: 573-884-5650
E-mail: SchumacherL@missouri.edu
 
Major Curriculum*
Course Credit
First Semester
College Algebra 3
General Biology 3
Biology Laboratory 2
Economics of Food and Agriculture 3
Intro to Ag Systems Management 3
 
Second Semester
English: Exposition and Argumentation 3
Computing and Program Concepts 3
Chemistry: Atoms and Molecules 3
Physical Principles for Ag Applications 3
Ag Econ: Applied Macroeconomics 3
 
Third Semester
Mobile Hydraulics 3
Amer. History or Amer./State Government 3
Biotechnology in Society 3
Speech Communication 3
Humanistic Studies and/or Fine Arts 3
 
Fourth Semester
Pesticide Application Equipment 3
Internal Combustion Power 3
Agricultural Sales 3
Introduction to Soils 3
Statistics 3
CAFNR Elective 3
 
Fifth Semester
Electrical Wiring and Equipment 3
Ag Marketing System 3
Principles of Finance 3
Web Design 3
Spanish for Ag Majors 3
 
Sixth Semester
Material Handling and Conditioning 3
Ag Accident Prevention 3
General Farm Management 3
Accounting I 3
Humanities Elective 3
   
Summer: Ag Mechanization Internship 5
 
Seventh Semester
Ag Systems Management 3
Ag Equipment and Machinery 3
Accounting II 3
General Philosophy 3
Other Elective 3
 
Eighth Semester
Precision Agriculture 3
Rural and Ag Law 3
Other Electives 9
 
*Individual degree program may vary.
 
Minor Curriculum
  • Minors programs shall include a minimum of 15 hours of course credit in Agricultural Systems Management.
  • Nine of the 15 hours must be 3000-level or above Agricultural Systems Management courses.
  • Only three of the 15 hours may be problems courses.
 

Looking for a career where you can combine your interests in machines and business?

Agricultural Systems Management

A career where you're just as likely to spend time pitching project proposals in the conference room as you are getting your hands dirty tightening lug nuts and building engines in the shop? A career that puts you at the forefront of technological innovation in agriculture, environmental protection and other related industries? Then agricultural systems management (ASM) is for you.

Career Opportunities

A bachelor's of science degree in agricultural systems management from the College of Agriculture, Food and Natural Resources (CAFNR) will provide you with all the skills you will need to succeed in a wide variety of careers.

You can individualize your degree program to fit the career field that most interests you. The business and technical skills you'll acquire while earning your ASM degree will prepare you for any number of careers in many industries, including:

  • Agricultural and Power Equipment Manufacturing. Companies such as Caterpillar, Case IH and John Deere seek product developers, managers and supervisors trained in the latest in precision agriculture, hydraulics, electrical wiring, engines and machinery management.
  • Equipment Sales. Local and regional dealerships that sell agricultural machinery to agricultural producers seek technical sales representatives who possess strong product knowledge and an understanding of business finance and marketing to provide producers with the equipment they need.
  • Food Production and Processing. Companies such as Anheuser-Busch, Archer Daniels Midland, Frito-Lay, Pioneer Hi-Bred and Purina Mills seek grain elevator and mill operators and managers to properly handle, store and process agricultural crops and materials.
  • Government. State and federal agencies such as the Missouri Department of Natural Resources, the U.S. Department of Agriculture and the Natural Resources Conservation Service seek consultants and specialists to oversee and regulate pesticide application, water handling and irrigation systems, animal waste management systems and watershed management.

Research/Internship Opportunities

As an agricultural systems management student, your chances to gain real world experience through internships are almost limitless. Opportunities exist with some of the nation's largest and most respected companies and agencies.

John Deere Dealer Management Program

MU was the first of six universities nationwide to partner with John Deere to offer a program of courses and internships specialized for those interested in agricultural equipment sales and service.

The John Deere Dealership Management Program (JDDMP) combines courses in business management with technical courses to produce well-rounded dealership personnel. Students who participate in the JDDMP will take a comprehensive sequence of courses in agricultural systems management and agricultural business management. John Deere Company participates in curriculum development and student mentoring. Each student is expected to plan and complete an internship with a sponsoring dealer. Up to five hours of credit may be earned for this internship.

Get Involved on Campus

Want to have fun and develop your leadership skills and professional contacts at the same time? Then join one or more of the College’s student clubs and organizations. There are more than 30 to choose from, and each gives you the opportunity to apply what you’re learning in the classroom while making lifelong friends.

  • Agricultural Systems Management Club is a group of ASM majors and other CAFNR students that meets the first Wednesday of every month to discuss club business such as upcoming events and group trips. Most meetings begin with a meal and a chance to mingle with other members. Members take part in events such as: international study abroad trips, Spring Lawn Mower Clinic, and Spring Trip just to name a few. In the past, students have had the opportunity to engage in two-week international experiences to Germany, Brazil and Costa Rica to study agriculture and see some extraordinary sites. The Spring Lawn Mower Clinic allows members to put their mechanical, business and people skills to use when they take on the task of servicing more than 200 mowers for the public each spring. Spring Trips to Midwestern companies such as John Deere, Vermeer and Kinze reward members for their participation and hard work.

    Agricultural Systems Management Department
    207 Agriculture Engineering, 573-882-2126

  • Alpha MU, the agricultural systems management honor society, is comprised of selected students who demonstrate high scholarship and outstanding leadership in the ASM program. The objective is to develop skilled, motivated leaders capable of contributing to the agriculture industry.
  • Biological Engineers Club

    Agricultural Systems Management Department
    254 Agriculture Engineering, 573-882-7549

  • "Torque-N-Tigers" is a club that designs and builds a quarter-scale tractor to participate in the American Society of Agricultural Engineers' national design and tractor pull competition. The club gives students the opportunity to gain practical experience while developing communication, leadership and teamwork skills.

    Web site: Torq'N Tigers

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