The Associate of Applied Science degree in Agronomy at Northeast Community College provides a strong foundation in crop production, soil science, and precision agriculture. Students will have the opportunity to experiment with essential principles of crop science, soil fertility, plant protection, and regenerative agriculture. Designed for students interested in careers in farming, agribusiness, or ag technology, the program blends classroom learning with hands-on experience using modern equipment and real-world practices to prepare you for success in today’s evolving ag industry. Graduates are working in a wide variety of jobs from production ag to cooperatives to crop consultants. Whether you choose to enter the workforce directly after completing your degree or transfer to a four-year institution to pursue a bachelor’s degree, this program prepares you to take the next step in the ag industry.
Why Students Choose This Program
At Northeast, our faculty and staff are passionate about exploring the latest technologies and innovations in agriculture. We’re not just teaching what’s new—we’re sharing real-world experiences, both the successes and the challenges. This balanced, forward-thinking approach prepares students to adapt, problem-solve, and lead in a rapidly evolving industry.
Students in the Agronomy program benefit from access to up-to-date labs, precision ag technology, the Pohlman Ag Complex, and the 500-acre Acklie Family College Farm. These industry-relevant facilities provide the tools and environment needed to explore crop science, soil health, and cutting-edge ag practices. Students are able to have hands-on learning opportunities that connect real-world application to the classroom.
Small class sizes in the Agronomy program provide a unique opportunity for individualized attention, ensuring that each student can fully benefit from the expertise of our highly committed and experienced faculty. Faculty have decades of combined farming experience and know how to connect classroom concepts with practical application. With fewer students, instructors can engage directly with each individual, offering tailored guidance and feedback that addresses specific needs. Faculty and staff care about student and alumni success. At Northeast, you will create friendships and networks that will be a resource for your entire educational and professional journey.
Hands-On Learning Opportunities and Courses
Northeast Community College’s Agronomy program combines classroom learning with real-world, experience-based education through fieldwork, labs, and internships. Students gain hands-on skills using the latest precision ag tools and crop production techniques on the 500-acre Acklie Family College Farm, exploring everything from irrigation systems to sustainable land management. The program also features a flexible internship component, with options like Crops and Irrigation, Cooperative Internships, or international travel to study global agricultural practices. With opportunities to compete at NACTA and connect with industry leaders, students graduate ready to excel in today’s dynamic agronomy field.
The program includes a diverse range of courses designed to provide students with both foundational knowledge and specialized skills, including:
- Soil Science
- Plant Science
- Resource-Efficient Crop Management
Program Details
2 years (68-69 credits)
Many classes can be taken remotely, but the degree does require some in-person courses at the Norfolk campus.
The application for admission at Northeast is free. Apply for admission, and learn more about your next steps.
Associate of Applied Science (AAS)
Students can take courses that prepare them for the exams for commercial pesticide applicator’s license, drone pilot license, or commercial driver’s license. They can also take a short course for cattle artificial insemination certification.
Brandon Christiansen, BC Farms
Ron Coufal, Beef Feedlot Owner/Farm Operator
Brian Coufal, Beef Feedlot Owner/Farm Operator
Ivan Lentsch, Precision Planting
Aaron Sauser, Lindsay Corporation
Jim Miller, Jim Miller Farm
Dennis Smydra, AKRS
Kathy Neidig, Neidig Farms Cattle Company
Van Neidig, Neidig Farms Cattle Company
David Brunsing, Midwest Bank
Kyle Schmit, Manzer Equipment
Dakota Buss, Hefty Seed
Conner Buss, Farming
Jason Kvols, Farm Bureau
Logan McKeon, Wolken Seed
Philip Swantek, Hoegemeyer Seed
Cassie Heithold, Helena
Chance Lambrecht, CVA
Rob Thomas, Farmer's Pride
