How to Become an Agronomist
The basic job of an agronomist is to study plants and soil and to improve their quality and efficency. To do this, they analyze chemical compsitions of soil and determine the best soil for crops. They also develop new ways for planting or harvesting crops that are effiective. Individuals who are interested in this field generally pursue a post-secondary education.
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Instructions
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Take several courses in high school that are related to this position, if possible. Some suggested courses include math, biology, chemistry, Earth & environmental science, food & nutrition, and physics. These courses will help provide you with the foundation you'll need.
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Apply to colleges to earn a bachelor's degree in agronomy, agriculture, soil science, or a related subject. Bachelor's degree programs take four years to complete, and generally include courses in subjects such as crop ecology and soil fertility, as well as general biology and chemistry courses.
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Participate in a co-op placement or internship if it is available at your college. With this program, you get to shadow an individual in this field and learn the ropes of it. Although you won't be directly involved with the process, you'll get to see how work is done, what you'll be doing and what your schedule will be like.
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Earn the Certified Crop Advisor (CCA) designation. The American Society of Agronomy (ASA) offers this designation to agronomists. Candidates are required to hold a bachelor's degree, have two years of experience in the field (or four years experience with no degree), and pass two exams.
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