Central ND News

Big changes are underway for Dickinson State University’s (DSU) agriculture program. Renovations to the agricultural educational wing and the expansion of the indoor rodeo arena are part of efforts to enhance agricultural education and provide students with resources for careers in the industry.

Dr. Chip Poland, professor of agriculture and chair of the Department of Agriculture and Technical Studies, discussed DSU’s offerings and what these upgrades mean for the program's future.

DSU offers a range of academic paths in agriculture, including certificates, associate degrees, and bachelor's degree options. Students can concentrate on production, business, or resource management within AS and BS degree programs. The BS program also emphasizes equine, general agriculture, and agricultural communications.

Certificates are available in farm and ranch management, horse production, and meat processing. Technical offerings include a one-year welding certificate and an Associate of Applied Science in Diesel Technology. A collaborative 4+1 program with North Dakota State University (NDSU) allows students to earn a bachelor’s degree in Agricultural Studies with an Ag Education minor from DSU and a Master of Education in Agricultural Education from NDSU within five years.

According to Poland, career opportunities for graduates are diverse.

“Oh my! Tell me what you want to do, and I’ll find an opportunity in agriculture,” he said. While traditional roles such as ranching and farming remain vital, careers in agribusiness, finance, education, government service, conservation, and communications are viable paths.

The curriculum at DSU combines classroom instruction with hands-on learning to prepare students for real-world applications. In addition to technical skills, there is a strong emphasis on leadership development and communication.

Renovations are a significant step forward for the program. According to Poland, upgrading the Ag Building integrates modern technology with traditional agricultural instruction. Smart classrooms and lab spaces are being created while preserving functionality for practical activities.

The expansion of DSU’s indoor arena will enhance equine and livestock learning experiences and support the university’s competitive rodeo program. Alongside the upgraded meats lab supporting the meat processing certificate, these improvements set the stage for future growth.

“Agriculture is alive and well in western North Dakota,” Poland said. “The investments made by DSU, the North Dakota University System, and the state have positioned our agriculture program to expand and thrive while serving both our students and the economy of the region.”

With new facilities and an evolving curriculum, Dickinson State University continues to lead in agricultural education.

For more information on DSU’s agriculture programs visit dickinsonstate.edu/academics.