Agricultural systems management
Bachelor of Science in Soil and Water Systems
Overview
Related Topics
Run the systems that feed the world
Agricultural systems management is a broad, hands-on degree that blends agricultural technology and agricultural mechanics with crop production science, animal science and agricultural business. You’ll learn to apply biological, physical, mechanical and business knowledge to the production, service, sales, application and management of the equipment and processes used in agriculture.
The program draws on science and engineering, but its focus is on application and management rather than research or design. You learn how the pieces of an operation fit together and how to make them work in the field, backed by coursework in agricultural economics, accounting and business.
That breadth is the point. You graduate ready for opportunities across the entire spectrum of the food and fiber sector. Many graduates return to farming, while others become farm managers or build careers in agricultural and natural-resource businesses, banking firms, educational institutions, or governmental agencies.
This program could be a good fit if you:
- Enjoy understanding how equipment, machines, and processes actually work
- Want a hands-on, applied path into agriculture rather than a purely theoretical one
- Are interested in both the technical and the business sides of an operation
- See yourself managing a farm, business or agricultural enterprise someday
- Want a versatile degree that opens doors across the food and fiber sector
Optimize agriculture with innovation
Curriculum
The B.S.S.W.S. in agricultural systems management is a 120-credit program combining coursework and applied learning experiences. Students build technical expertise while gaining hands-on experience in the field.
View the sample four-year plan for this degree
Explore program courses in the University Catalog
Learning objectives
- Evaluate, operate and troubleshoot agricultural machinery, tools and systems
- Design and analyze irrigation, drainage and water conservation systems to maximize resource efficiency
- Implement GPS, sensors, geographic information systems and data analytics to optimize crop production
Hands-on learning
- Gain experience in welding and shop practices labs
- Learn about water management with irrigation classes
- Explore further with supplemental labs in electric power and machinery
- Study abroad to learn about global agriculture technology and systems
Career outcomes
Current job openings
1,001 in ID, WA, OR, MT and HIPotential careers and mid-career salaries
- Agricultural Engineers
$101,489 - Biofuel Technology and Product Development Managers
$177,591 - Database Administrators
$106,046 - Surveyors
$86,165 - Agricultural Technicians • Precision Agriculture Technicians
$47,827
* Career data provided by Lightcast.
Clubs and involvement opportunities
Clubs
- ASM Club
- Student Idaho Cattle Association
- Collegiate FFA
- Collegiate Young Farmers and Ranchers
- Vandal Robotics
- Soil Stewards Club
- Soil Judging Club
Financial aid and scholarship opportunities
While paying for college can feel overwhelming, University of Idaho is committed to affordability and clarity about tuition and financial aid. Here are a few key resources to help you understand the cost of your degree and explore available financial support:
- Submit your FAFSA: Completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is the first step to accessing federal, state and institutional financial aid.
- Estimate your cost of attendance: Use U of I’s Cost Calculator to estimate tuition and other expenses associated with earning your degree.
- Discover scholarship opportunities: When you apply to University of Idaho, you’re automatically considered for scholarships. Additional awards are available based on your previous experience, background and anticipated program of study.
If you have any questions about financial aid, scholarships or cost, U of I’s experienced financial aid counselors can help you make informed financial decisions and navigate each part of the process. Reach out to our Financial Aid Office for assistance.
Idaho LAUNCH
This degree is approved for Idaho LAUNCH, a grant that supports Idaho students pursuing high-demand careers. Students enrolling under the 2026–27 Academic Catalog may be eligible for up to $4,000 per year / $8,000 total in scholarship funding through the Idaho LAUNCH program.
Learn about eligibility and application deadlines at nextsteps.idaho.gov/launch, or see our full list of approved U of I programs on the in-state scholarships page.
Application information
Undergraduate applications open each September and admissions are processed on a rolling basis. Qualified students are admitted and considered for scholarships and financial aid as applications are received.
Explore admission requirements and apply on our Admissions website.
Have questions?
Not sure if this program is the right fit? Connect with your admissions counselor or request more information to get personalized guidance on program details, requirements and next steps.
Find your admissions counselor
Request more information
Connect with program faculty
Inside the Agricultural Systems Management Lab
Explore the ASM lab to learn more about our program