Agricultural engineering schools can prepare you for a rewarding career in a variety of agricultural engineering jobs. Agricultural engineers specialize in applying science and math to food sources, natural resources and agricultural equipment and processes. A bachelor's degree is required for entry-level jobs in agricultural engineering, but graduates with an agricultural engineering degree have a median salary of $66,000 per year.

The best agricultural engineering program offers in-field experiences, the chance to minor in a complementary subject and classes taught by professors experienced in theory and practice. When checking out agricultural engineering colleges, ask yourself the following questions:

1. Are the agricultural engineering universities you apply to accredited by ABET, formally known as the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology? If they aren't, you risk having non-transferable credits or a less than stellar resume upon graduation.

2. Does this agricultural engineering university offer an undergraduate and graduate program, or would you have to transfer to a new university? You have a better chance of acceptance into a graduate program at an alumni university.

3. Can you complete some of the undergrad work or a graduate degree through distance education? This option saves you time and allows you to work while going to school.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Find a list of accredited agricultural engineering schools

Before sending off applications, get a list of accredited agricultural engineering schools. This ensures you that you're applying to schools with transferable credits and clout with future employers.

I recommend: Research a list of accredited schools using a variety of search options at ABET. For a list of top agricultural engineering schools, check out the list published by U.S. News & World Report. Speak directly with administrators of agricultural engineering programs by contacting the people listed at the American Society of Agricultural and Biological Engineers.

Choose an agricultural engineering school that has a variety of degrees

It's hard to continue your education if the agricultural engineering college you choose only offers one degree for agricultural engineering. A top agricultural engineering school will offer a degree in agricultural engineering, along with specialized degrees in certain agricultural science programs.

I recommend: The degrees offered by the University of Idaho include specialities in soil and water engineering and agricultural machine systems, along with a graduate degree. Oklahoma State University offers degree options for both undergraduate and graduate degrees in agricultural engineering.

Pick a school that lets you work toward an agricultural engineering degree online

Taking advantage of distance education lets you continue working while going to school. Many times, you can complete the core requirements of an agricultural engineering degree online. This is also a great way to mix at-home learning with your in field instruction so you don't feel so stressed.

I recommend: Research the list of agricultural engineering schools that offer distance education over at World Wide Learn. Look up graduate schools for agricultural engineering at Education Dynamics.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Talk with your local community college and see if they have what is commonly known as a 2+2 plan. These plans let you complete your first two years of basic classes, with guaranteed admission to cooperating universities.