Choosing the right college for an agriculture program in Texas can shape your academic journey and future career. Agricultural education today covers crop science, animal science, agribusiness, environmental sustainability, and food technology.
Texas offers a variety of colleges specializing in agriculture, each with unique strengths in research, fieldwork, and industry partnerships. The best program for you depends on your goals, budget, location preference, and desired learning experience.
Some colleges excel in research and technological innovation, while others provide hands-on training and strong community engagement. Understanding these differences can help you select a program that aligns with your personal and professional ambitions.
In this guide, you’ll discover the 10 best Texas colleges with agriculture programs, based on academic reputation, research facilities, practical training, faculty expertise, and career opportunities. This guide is designed to help students make informed decisions and pursue a successful career in agriculture.
10 Best Texas Colleges With Agriculture Programs
1. Texas A&M University – Best Overall Texas College for Agriculture
Texas A&M University is widely recognized as the top agriculture school in Texas, offering programs in crop science, animal science, agribusiness, and agricultural engineering. Its curriculum combines classroom learning with hands-on experience on research farms.
Texas A&M – Official Programs | Best for Research and Industry Connections
The university emphasizes applied research, internships, and strong ties with agribusiness companies. Students gain skills in sustainable farming, livestock management, and food systems.
Graduates find careers in agribusiness, research, government agencies, and international agriculture organizations. Texas A&M’s reputation ensures high employability across the state and globally.
Pros:
• World-class research facilities
• Hands-on fieldwork
• Strong industry partnerships
• High employability
• Innovation-driven programs
• Large alumni network
• Diverse course offerings
Cons:
• Large campus can be overwhelming
• Competitive admission
• High cost of living in College Station
2. Tarleton State University – Best for Crop and Soil Sciences
Tarleton State University is renowned for its programs in crop science, soil management, and agricultural technology. It offers students practical experience through farms and labs.
Tarleton State – Official Programs | Best for Crop and Soil Studies
Programs focus on precision farming, sustainable agriculture, and agribusiness management. Students engage in fieldwork, research, and industry partnerships.
Graduates pursue careers in crop management, agricultural consultancy, research, and food production. Tarleton’s practical approach ensures readiness for Texas agriculture industries.
Pros:
• Strong hands-on training
• Focus on sustainability
• Research farm access
• Career-ready programs
• Affordable tuition
• Industry connections
• Personalized learning environment
Cons:
• Smaller campus
• Limited international student support
• Fewer specialization options
3. Stephen F. Austin State University – Best for Agricultural Education
Stephen F. Austin State University provides programs in agricultural science, education, and natural resources. Its curriculum combines classroom instruction with fieldwork and laboratory research.
Stephen F. Austin – Official Programs | Best for Agriculture Education
Students develop skills in sustainable farming, animal science, and agricultural outreach. The university emphasizes preparing students for careers in teaching, extension services, and community agriculture programs.
Graduates often work in schools, government agencies, and agricultural consulting. Stephen F. Austin’s strong focus on education prepares students for leadership roles.
Pros:
• Strong focus on agricultural education
• Hands-on learning opportunities
• Small class sizes
• Career-focused curriculum
• Research opportunities
• Community engagement programs
• Affordable tuition
Cons:
• Limited graduate programs
• Smaller campus than larger universities
• Less international recognition
4. Sam Houston State University – Best for Agribusiness
Sam Houston State University offers programs in agribusiness management, agricultural economics, and food production. Students gain practical skills through internships and research projects.
Sam Houston State – Official Programs | Best for Agribusiness Careers
Programs focus on farm management, business planning, and agricultural finance. Students learn to combine technical agriculture skills with business strategy.
Graduates work in farm management, agribusiness consulting, financial analysis, and agricultural marketing. SHSU graduates are well-prepared for careers in Texas agriculture industries.
Pros:
• Strong agribusiness programs
• Internship and industry opportunities
• Hands-on learning
• Career-focused curriculum
• Affordable tuition
• Small class sizes
• Networking opportunities
Cons:
• Smaller research facilities
• Limited international exposure
• Fewer specialized tracks
5. Texas Tech University – Best for Agricultural Research
Texas Tech University offers agricultural programs emphasizing research, technology, and sustainability. Students have access to laboratories, experimental farms, and industry partnerships.
Texas Tech – Official Programs | Best for Agricultural Innovation
Programs cover crop science, animal science, soil management, and food production technology. Students participate in research projects addressing real-world agricultural challenges.
Graduates pursue careers in research, agribusiness, and environmental consultancy. Texas Tech’s reputation ensures strong employability in Texas and beyond.
Pros:
• Research-intensive programs
• Hands-on lab and field experience
• Industry partnerships
• High employability
• Technologically advanced curriculum
• Focus on sustainability
• Diverse program offerings
Cons:
• Large campus
• Competitive admissions
• Limited international scholarships
6. Angelo State University – Best for Small Campus Experience
Angelo State University offers programs in agricultural science, plant and animal management, and agricultural business. Students benefit from personalized instruction and practical field experience.
Angelo State – Official Programs | Best for Personalized Learning
Programs focus on sustainability, agribusiness, and applied agricultural science. Students participate in hands-on farm projects and internships.
Graduates work in agricultural consulting, farming operations, and local food production. Angelo State provides a supportive learning environment ideal for focused study.
Pros:
• Small campus with personal attention
• Hands-on learning opportunities
• Affordable tuition
• Internship programs
• Focus on local agriculture industries
• Career-ready programs
• Supportive faculty
Cons:
• Limited research facilities
• Smaller alumni network
• Fewer international opportunities
7. Prairie View A&M University – Best for Urban Agriculture
Prairie View A&M University offers programs in agricultural science, environmental sustainability, and urban agriculture. The curriculum blends research, fieldwork, and community engagement.
Prairie View A&M – Official Programs | Best for Urban and Sustainable Agriculture
Students learn sustainable crop production, livestock management, and urban agriculture practices. The university emphasizes social impact and community-based agriculture.
Graduates pursue careers in research, community development, urban farming, and agribusiness. Prairie View’s focus on urban and sustainable agriculture sets it apart.
Pros:
• Focus on sustainable and urban agriculture
• Community engagement opportunities
• Research programs
• Hands-on fieldwork
• Career-focused curriculum
• Affordable tuition
• Internship opportunities
Cons:
• Smaller campus
• Limited specialization tracks
• Less international recognition
8. Texas State University – Best for Agricultural Science
Texas State University offers programs in crop and soil science, horticulture, and agricultural technology. Students gain skills through laboratories, research projects, and field experience.
Texas State – Official Programs | Best for Crop and Soil Studies
Programs emphasize precision farming, soil management, and sustainable agriculture practices. Students learn both theory and applied techniques for modern agriculture.
Graduates pursue careers in research, crop management, agribusiness, and environmental consulting. Texas State prepares students for successful careers in Texas agriculture industries.
Pros:
• Strong focus on applied agriculture
• Hands-on field and lab experience
• Internship opportunities
• Affordable tuition
• Small class sizes
• Research experience
• Career-ready programs
Cons:
• Smaller research facilities
• Limited graduate programs
• Less national recognition
9. Sul Ross State University – Best for Ranching and Livestock
Sul Ross State University specializes in livestock, ranching, and animal science programs. Students benefit from hands-on experience on working farms and ranches.
Sul Ross State – Official Programs | Best for Ranching and Livestock Management
Programs focus on animal husbandry, livestock production, and ranch management. Students gain practical skills needed for careers in Texas ranching and agricultural industries.
Graduates work in livestock operations, ranch management, veterinary support, and agribusiness. Sul Ross’s focus on ranching and livestock provides a niche expertise.
Pros:
• Hands-on ranch and livestock experience
• Focus on practical skills
• Small class sizes
• Affordable tuition
• Career-focused curriculum
• Internship opportunities
• Personalized faculty support
Cons:
• Limited research programs
• Smaller campus
• Less international exposure
10. Lamar University – Best for Agricultural Technology
Lamar University offers programs in agricultural technology, crop production, and environmental sustainability. Students combine classroom learning with hands-on technology-driven projects.
Lamar University – Official Programs | Best for Agri-Tech and Innovation
Programs emphasize precision agriculture, technology integration, and modern farming techniques. Students gain skills in sustainable crop production and agricultural innovation.
Graduates find careers in agribusiness, research, agricultural technology, and food systems management. Lamar University equips students for modern agriculture careers in Texas and beyond.
Pros:
• Focus on agricultural technology
• Hands-on learning opportunities
• Research-driven curriculum
• Internship and industry exposure
• Career-ready programs
• Affordable tuition
• Innovation-focused programs
Cons:
• Smaller campus
• Limited international exposure
• Fewer specialization options
FAQs – Texas Colleges With Agriculture Programs
1. What is the best college for agriculture in Texas?
Texas A&M University is widely regarded as the top college for agriculture in Texas, offering world-class programs, research facilities, and industry connections.
2. Which Texas colleges specialize in agribusiness?
Sam Houston State University, Texas A&M University, and Tarleton State University are known for strong agribusiness programs combining business and agriculture skills.
3. Are there affordable agriculture programs in Texas?
Yes, colleges like Angelo State University, Prairie View A&M University, and Sul Ross State University offer quality programs at lower tuition costs.
4. What subjects do Texas agriculture programs cover?
Programs cover crop and soil science, animal science, agribusiness, agricultural technology, sustainable farming, and environmental management.
5. Can I pursue a career internationally after studying agriculture in Texas?
Yes, top colleges like Texas A&M and Texas Tech prepare students for international careers in research, agribusiness, sustainability, and food systems management.
6. Do Texas colleges provide hands-on agricultural experience?
Yes, all top programs offer fieldwork, research farms, labs, internships, and real-world industry exposure.
7. How do I choose the best Texas agriculture college for me?
Consider your specialization interests, campus size, tuition, internship opportunities, and career goals when selecting the right program.
Conclusion
Choosing the best Texas college with an agriculture program can significantly impact your career in agribusiness, research, or sustainable farming. Agricultural education in Texas provides opportunities in crop science, animal science, technology, and environmental sustainability.
Top colleges like Texas A&M, Tarleton State, and Texas Tech offer world-class programs, hands-on learning, and strong industry connections. Each institution provides unique strengths, from precision farming to livestock management and agribusiness expertise.
Understanding your goals, budget, and preferred specialization is essential when selecting the right program. The best Texas agriculture colleges equip students with knowledge, skills, and practical experience to succeed in a growing agricultural industry.
With the increasing demand for skilled professionals in agriculture, studying at a top Texas college offers excellent career opportunities. Take action today by researching programs, applying early, and investing in agricultural education that prepares you to contribute to sustainable farming, food security, and innovation worldwide.