Big changes are underway for Dickinson State University’s (DSU) agriculture program, with ongoing renovations to the agricultural educational wing and the expansion of the indoor rodeo arena. These updates are part of a broader commitment to strengthen agricultural education and provide students with cutting-edge resources to prepare for diverse careers in the industry.
Dr. Chip Poland, professor of agriculture and chair of the Department of Agriculture and Technical Studies, shared insights into DSU’s offerings and what these upgrades mean for the future of the program.
DSU provides a wide array of academic paths in agriculture, including certificates, associate degrees, and bachelor's degree options. Students can pursue concentrations in production, business, or resource management within the AS and BS degree programs. Additional emphasis areas in the BS program include equine, general agriculture, and agricultural communications.
The university also offers certificates 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 unique 4+1 collaborative 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.
Career opportunities for graduates are vast and varied, according to Poland.
“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 all viable paths.
The agriculture curriculum at DSU is designed to blend classroom instruction with hands-on learning, ensuring students are well-prepared for real-world applications. In addition to technical skills, the program places a strong emphasis on leadership development and communication, aiming to graduate students who are equipped to make meaningful contributions in their careers and communities.
The recent and ongoing renovations are a major step forward for the program. According to Poland, upgrading the Ag Building integrates modern technology with traditional, hands-on agricultural instruction. Smart classrooms and lab spaces are being created while preserving the functionality necessary for messy, practical activities.
Simultaneously, the expansion and renovation of DSU’s multipurpose indoor arena will significantly enhance equine and livestock learning experiences and support the university’s competitive rodeo program. Combined with the recently upgraded meats lab, which supports 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 a comprehensive, evolving curriculum, Dickinson State University continues to lead the way in agricultural education, preparing students to succeed in one of the region’s most vital industries.
For more information on DSU’s agriculture programs, visit dickinsonstate.edu/academics. Check out our recent feature in North Dakota Agriculture Magazine here: Dickinson State University Makes Strides in Agricultural Innovation and Education - Farm Flavor.