Advance your career in just 18 months
with no formal research and thesis.
Combine your passion for animal, crop, or environmental science and business in the Agricultural Production PSM program. Earn your Master’s degree in just 18 months with no research or thesis.
TRANSFORMING SCIENCE
Agribusiness needs people like you who know and understand the science of agriculture. Companies demand you not only know the science but can transform that knowledge into meaningful products and services. When you graduate from the Agricultural Production PSM program, you will leave with advanced knowledge in agricultural science and relevant real-world business knowledge and skills.
Companies Our Students Work With
Dr. Knox has been advising the Agricultural Production students since Fall 2011. He completed his Bachelor’s degree in Agriculture from the University of Delaware and obtained both his M.S. and PhD in Animal Sciences from the University of Nebraska. He specializes in swine reproduction research and serves as the state swine extension specialist. Dr. Knox serves on numerous pork and swine related boards as well. He says the biggest asset of the Illinois PSM program is the “wide array of experiences available to students in just a three semester program.” He believes the students best suited for the program are those that are self-motivated, proactive and willing to interact with professors, guests and classmates.
TAILOR YOUR DEGREE TO YOUR PROFESSIONAL GOALS
Work with your advisor, Dr. Knox, to create a customized set of courses that match your interests and individual career goals. Choose from one of the following specialty areas:
- Food Animal Production
- Crop Production
- Sustainable Production Systems
SCIENCE + BUSINESS SETS YOU APART
The integrated business courses, professional development seminars, and required internship make your Master’s program different than a traditional masters. Plus, your cross-disciplinary industry seminars offer you the opportunity to interact with industry and government leaders. See brochure for more details.
By the end of your program, you will be able to
- Design a comprehensive marketing strategy
- Manage the flow of products and services
- Execute project plans within time and budget
- Understand and discuss regulatory policies
- Assess financial risks, statements, valuation, and capital budgets
- Examine organizational behavior, structures, effectiveness, and more!
For additional information or to discuss your learning and career objectives, contact Dr. Robert Knox, major advisor for agricultural production, at rknox@illinois.edu or (217) 244-5177.
Kaylee Williams graduated from the Agricultural Production PSM program in 2014 with a focus in Animal Production. She earned her undergraduate degree in Animal Sciences from the University of Illinois. During her undergraduate career, Kaylee realized that her background was heavy in research and science and she wanted to be a more rounded professional with business knowledge. She states that she, “wanted to be more marketable as a potential employee in the animal health industry.” Kaylee’s internship was with Carthage Innovative Swine Solutions in Carthage, Illinois. She is now aTerritory Sales Manager with Boehringer Ingelheim Vetmedica, Inc. Her advice to students is to “take accountability for yourself, your learning, and your experience.” There are plenty of opportunities to make connections, network and better yourself as a professional if you take the initiative and reach out.
