Founded in agriculture. Connected to life. For over 150 years students and alumni of the University of Guelph’s Ontario Agricultural College (OAC) have connected communities, help feed the world and Improve Life. OAC is ranked #1 in Canada for agriculture and food science and offer hands-on programs diploma, undergraduate, graduate and doctoral programs in food, agriculture, communities and the environment.
Students of the Ontario Agricultural College (OAC) tackle complex challenges in food, agriculture, communities and the environment. With campuses in both Guelph and Ridgetown, Ontario, you’ll have an opportunity to learn in hands-on, applied classes from leading researchers known around the world.
Our graduates are prepared to meet the evolving and dynamic needs of the global agri-food sector, leveraging their expertise in technology, science and business while addressing its sustainability needs.
Quick facts about U of Guelph’s OAC:
Learn from Canada's leader in food and agricultural science and explore how we can efficiently and sustainably feed our growing population. Learn about the technology, science and business-side of the agriculture industry and help contribute to improving our food security challenges. U of G is ranked #1 in Canada and #12 in the World for Agricultural Science by The U.S. News.
Bachelor of Science in Agriculture
Explore all your agricultural interests through the Honours Agriculture (AGRS) degree from the University of Guelph, offered in the Bachelor of Science in Agriculture degree program. Focus your studies by specializing in either Animal Science, Crop Science, Honours Agriculture, or Horticulture.
Your Degree, Your Way
Interested in different parts of agriculture? Choose the courses and research projects that link to your career goals; your studies will combine core “ag” science with courses in business, animals, plants and the environment.
Prepare For Your Career
You'll take a core curriculum of agriculture and food-related courses and with the help of your faculty advisor, choose courses to prepare you for the career of your choice. Choose the co-op option and connect with employers through four paid work terms, putting your skills to work.
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Bachelor of Commerce in Food and Agricultural Business
Gain agri-food expertise and the business, entrepreneurial and leadership skills needed to tackle the big food and business challenges of tomorrow. In fact, the sector is in such high demand that many of our students are hired prior to graduating.
Gain the analytical skills needed to understand food trends. Discover how food supply chains work, how local and global markets are connected, and how policy impacts the price of food.
Broaden Your Skillset and Experience
Gain a strong understanding of the economics and management practices in both the Canadian and the global agri-food sector, opening career options for you to pursue in both private and public organizations.
Go Beyond the Classroom
Gain industry expertise through co-op and industry consulting projects while completing courses that are fully accredited by the Agricultural Institute of Canada. Go the next step and pursue your CPA through post-graduate coursework.
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Associate Diploma in Agriculture
Develop the skills needed to work in the ever-evolving Canadian agricultural sector through the 2-year associate diploma in agriculture (with co-op option), offered through U of Guelph’s Ridgetown Campus
This skills-oriented program combines practical experience in agricultural production with technical and scientific information. You will develop the business management, computer skills, problem-solving abilities and personal network needed for your career in agriculture.
4 areas of focus
Through course selection, you can focus your studies on crops, livestock, business or resource management and learn in on-campus livestock barns, research fields and labs.
Customize your studies
Of the 24 courses you will take, you will pick 8 electives to match your interests: business, crops, livestock, vegetable production, and more.
Discover more OAC programs in food, agriculture, communities and the environment.
Learn more about our programs through an online webinar. Talk with faculty, students and alumni and discover exciting career paths in food, agriculture and the environment.
Register for a webinar below:
BBQ’s, student clubs, road trips, class spirit and leather jackets. Discover what makes U of G’s Ontario Agricultural College a special place to learn and grow.
U of G is consistently ranked top in Canada for academic excellence and student satisfaction. By studying at OAC, you’ll be joining a community of future leaders who are on a mission to Improve Life through food, agriculture, communities and the environment. You'll go beyond the classroom to meet life-long friends, grow personally and professionally and develop the skills needed for a successful career.
Travel the World.
Experience other cultures and gain a global perspective. Participate in one of many student exchange or study abroad program opportunities at partner universities across the world. Shorter Field Trip courses
(1-2 weeks) are also available for students looking for an international experience which can be integrated with their on-campus studies.
Student clubs
Connect with friends. Make memories. Try something new. There are plenty of opportunities for you to meet friends and the broader U of G community. The OAC is home to a long list of student clubs and students participate and run various events on campus. All are a great way to meet new people and learn or enhance new skills outside of the classroom.
Support for your career development
The University of Guelph offers a wide range of programs and services tailored to your personal and professional development to help you launch a fulfilling career. Receive career coaching, resume building, networking opportunities and co-op opportunities through the U of G's Experiential Learning Hub.
Class spirit
Each year, 1st year OAC students chooses their class colours, a slogan and crest to represent their cohort. Students also select an animal to represent their class.
The "OAC Jacket"
A true OAC tradition. OAC jackets are just one of the features that make our students recognizable on campus
