Subfields in Agricultural Sciences
Agronomy
The science and technology of producing and using plants for food, fuel, fiber, and land restoration.
Horticulture
The cultivation of plants for food, comfort, and beautification, including fruits, vegetables, and ornamental plants.
Soil Science
The study of soil as a natural resource, including its formation, classification, and mapping, as well as its physical and chemical properties.
Plant Pathology
The study of plant diseases caused by pathogens and environmental conditions, focusing on disease prevention and control.
Entomology
The study of insects and their relationships to humans, other organisms, and the environment, including pest control and biodiversity.
Animal Science
The study of the biology of animals under the control of humans, including livestock production, breeding, nutrition, and genetic research.
Agricultural Engineering
The application of engineering principles to agricultural production and post-harvest processes, focusing on equipment design, irrigation, and structures.
Food Science
The study of the physical, biological, and chemical components of food; this includes food safety, preservation, and processing.
Agricultural Economics
The study of economic principles as they apply to agriculture, including agricultural productivity, marketing, and rural development.
Sustainable Agriculture
The management of farming practices to maintain and improve the health of the environment and ensure economic viability for farmers.
Crop Science
The study of field crops and their production practices, focusing on improvement in crop yields and quality through genetics and management.
Weed Science
The study of weeds and their control, including the development of methods for managing weed populations in agricultural systems.
Precision Agriculture
The use of technology and data to manage field variability in order to improve crop production and minimize environmental impact.
Forestry
The science of managing forests and related resources, including conservation, ecosystem management, and timber production.
Aquaculture
The farming of aquatic organisms such as fish, crustaceans, and plants, focusing on sustainable practices and environmental impact.
Rural Development
The study and practice of improving the quality of life and economic well-being in rural areas through various initiatives and programs.
Climate Smart Agriculture
An approach to farming that seeks to achieve food security under climate change by enhancing productivity and resilience.