Degree or not, the Agricultural Industry Needs Talented People

• Bonnie Johnson
• November 19, 2025
• Newsletter Article

Think a bachelor’s degree is the only way into agriculture? Think again! The ag industry is full of opportunities for skilled, motivated individuals—no degree required. Learn which roles value experience over education and get practical tips to stand out in your job search.

---

 

“Bachelor’s degree required. Master’s preferred.” Do you feel like this is all you see on job postings? 

 

But there is good news: in agriculture, a four-year degree isn’t the only path to a great career. 

 

The ag industry continues to expand and diversify, creating more roles than there are graduates to fill them. That means there are many opportunities for candidates who bring experience, skills, and a strong work ethic—even without a bachelor’s or advanced degree. 

 

You Don’t Always Need a Degree 

 

When AgCareers.com reviewed job postings on our site, 23% didn’t list any minimum education requirement. 

 

Among the postings that did specify education: 

 

• 50% did not require a bachelor’s degree 

 

• 37% required a minimum of a high school diploma 

 

• 13% required a college/associate degree, skilled trade or apprenticeship certificate 

 

Career Paths That Don’t Require a Bachelor’s 

 

Top Jobs by Career Type
1	Sales/Retail
2	Farm & Ranch Operations/Herdsperson/On Farm
3	Operations
4	Maintenance/Repair
5	Accounting/Finance/Asset Management
6	IT/Software Development
7	Marketing/Branding
8	Skilled & Technical Trades
9	Technician
10	Business Development/Strategic Management

 

Within these categories, you’ll find plenty of positions where experience, technical skills, and motivation matter more than a degree. 

 

Don’t Be Afraid of “Bachelor’s Degree Preferred” 

 

If a posting says, “bachelor’s degree preferred”, don’t automatically count yourself out. 

“Preferred” is not the same as “required.” If it were a deal breaker, it would be listed as a requirement. 

 

You may offer: 

 

• Hands-on experience that directly matches the role 

 

• Skills gained through work, training, or volunteering 

 

• Industry knowledge that a new graduate may not yet have 

 

How to Stand Out Without a Degree 

 

If you don’t have all the listed qualifications, focus on what you do bring and how you’re growing: 

 

• Highlight relevant coursework or training: Even short courses, certifications, or onetime training sessions can be valuable. 

 

• Showcase practical experience: Include ride-alongs, job shadows, part-time work, internships, seasonal roles, or helping on the family farm. 

 

• Emphasize transferable skills: Volunteer work, community involvement, and leadership experiences can demonstrate organization, communication, and reliability. 

 

• Build it into your resume and interview: Don’t just list experiences—explain what you learned, how you solved problems, and how those skills apply to the job. 

 

• Have a growth plan: If you’re missing some “required” or “preferred” qualifications, think ahead. Maybe that’s a certification, additional training, or a class you plan to take. Be ready to discuss how you intend to gain those skills with a potential employer. 

 

Ready to Get Started? 

 

The agricultural industry needs talented, driven individuals—regardless of their educational background. 

 

Explore your options and start your job search today on AgCareers.com.