Program: Agricultural Education (M.S.) - South Dakota State University

2021-2022 Graduate Catalog

Apr 06, 2025

Program Coordinator/Contact

Laura Hasselquist, Assistant Professor
School of Education, Counseling and Human Development
Wenona Hall 104
605-688-4545

Program Information

The Master’s degree in Agricultural Education is designed to meet the needs of individuals who work (or plan to work) in agricultural education, non-profit organizations, post-secondary education or in agriculture leadership. The School of Education, Counseling and Human Development provides professional preparation for those who want to expand their knowledge and advance themselves professionally in the agricultural industry.

Students are able to choose from either a program in which only coursework is required or a program in which they must complete a research project or creative component. If a student elects to complete a thesis (Plan A) the program will include 30 credit hours. If a student elects to complete a creative component (Plan B), the student must complete a minimum of 32 credit hours in order to graduate. If a full coursework option is selected (Plan C), the student must complete a minimum of 36 credit hours.

Student Learning Outcomes

Knowledge of current issues: The graduate of the curriculum and instruction program displays knowledge of current practices, research, theories, and issues in education.
Knowledge of learning: The graduate of the curriculum and instruction program demonstrates knowledge of how students learn and is able to effectively apply that knowledge within a variety of educational roles.
Curricular processes: The graduate of the curriculum and instruction program effectively participates in curricular processes.
Communication skills: The graduate of the curriculum and instruction program effectively communicates.
Foundational lifetime learning skills: The graduate of the curriculum and instruction program displays commitment to professional involvement and growth through continual learning, reflective practice, and collaboration.
Technology: The graduate of the curriculum and instruction program makes appropriate use of educational technology.

Accreditation, Certification, Licensure

This program can lead to alternative certification in agricultural education at the secondary level in South Dakota.

Course Delivery Format

The program can be completed online through the Brookings Campus. Some course offerings will be available face to face.

Available Options for Graduate Degrees

Master of Science	Option A - Thesis	30 Credit Hours
	Option B - Research/Design Paper	32 Credit Hours
	Option C - Coursework Only	36 Credit Hours

Core Requirements

AGED 650 - Foundations of Agricultural Education Credits: 3
EDER 610 - Introduction to Research Credits: 3
EDER 614 - Advanced Educational Research Design and Analysis Credits: 3
EDFN 600 - Advanced Pedagogy Credits: 3
EPSY 740 - Advanced Educational Psychology Credits: 3

Select one of the following options

Option A - Thesis

AGED 798 - Thesis (COM) Credits: 1-7 (5-7 credits required)
Electives Credits: 8-10

Option B - Research/Design Paper

AGED 788 - Research Problems in Agricultural Education (COM) Credits: 1-7 (3 credits required)
Electives Credits: 14

Option C - Coursework Only

Electives Credits: 21

Total Required Credits: 30 (Option A), 32 (Option B), 36 (Option C)

Additional Admission Requirements

GRE: Not required
TOEFL: 525 paper-based, 71 Internet-based or higher
IELTS: 6.0
Duolingo: 100

Applicants must provide a resume, goal statement, and two professional letters of reference as part of the application process.

General Requirements

Graduate students should consult with their advisor before registering for graduate coursework.

For additional information refer to the Master’s Degree Requirements .