Unlock your potential in the thriving fields of Agricultural Science and Agribusiness with our cutting-edge program. We empower students and professionals to drive innovation through hands-on learning experiences, research-based approaches, and a deep commitment to sustainable practices. Join a vibrant community where your passion for agriculture can flourish into a rewarding career that nourishes communities worldwide.
Program Highlights
Play in the Dirt
Soil is the very foundation of agriculture, so it’s one of the grounding elements of our program, too. In our program, you’ll explore soil fertility management, innovative cultivation techniques, and the cutting-edge agricultural equipment and materials that empower sustainable food production.
Real-World Experience In the Field
Roll up your sleeves and dive into hands-on explorations, from conducting comprehensive plant and soil analyses to pioneering strategies that maximize crop yields.
Unique UMPI Benefits
At UMPI, we understand that a truly exceptional education extends far beyond classroom walls. That’s why our program offers a wealth of unique opportunities that will broaden your horizons and provide you with the knowledge, skills, and experiences that will set you apart in the exciting field of agricultural science and agribusiness.
Learn While You Grow
Immerse yourself in our state-of-the-art Zillman Family Greenhouse, featuring climate-controlled environments purpose-built for hands-on learning and innovative research.
EXPECT generous scholarships
EXPECT generous scholarships
Play in the Dirt
Our program provides a comprehensive exploration of the intricate relationship between soil health and agricultural productivity. Students will gain an understanding of the study of soils and their formation, properties, and management. Through hands-on learning experiences in our state-of-the-art facilities and field sites, you’ll learn techniques for soil analysis, nutrient management, and implementing sustainable farming practices. By developing expertise in soil science and its practical applications, you’ll be prepared to tackle the challenges of food security, environmental stewardship, and the ever-evolving needs of modern agriculture.
Real-World Experience In the Field
Immersive, experiential learning is at the core of our program’s philosophy. We believe in providing students with opportunities to apply their knowledge in authentic agricultural settings. You’ll engage in practical exercises that mirror real-world scenarios faced by professionals in the industry. Additionally, you’ll have the chance to collaborate with local farming communities, gaining firsthand insights into their challenges and contributing your expertise towards developing sustainable solutions. This hands-on approach ensures that upon graduation, you’ll possess a well-rounded skill set and the confidence to navigate the landscape of agricultural science and agribusiness.
EXPECT an education tailored to your needs
EXPECT an education tailored to your needs
Unique UMPI Benefits
At UMPI, we are committed to providing an agricultural science and agribusiness program is designed to nurture your personal and professional growth, providing you with the expertise required to thrive in today’s agricultural landscape. In addition to our up-to-date academic curriculum, you’ll have access to co-curricular activities that support well-rounded academic and professional development. From participating in research projects alongside faculty to engaging student organizations, you’ll gain experience that sets you apart. Furthermore, our network of agricultural and agribusiness industry partnerships provides opportunities for internships, mentorships, and collaboration with leading organizations. This approach ensures that you graduate with not only comprehensive subject matter knowledge but also the practical skills, real-world exposure, and professional connections that propel your success in the fields of agricultural science and agribusiness.
Learn While You Grow
Experiential learning takes center stage in our program, providing you with opportunities to put theory into practice. Our Zillman Family Greenhouse offers a backdrop for hands-on exploration and discovery. You’ll have access to specialized climate-controlled environments to explore diverse growing conditions, allowing you to gain firsthand experience in managing and optimizing plant growth across a range of scenarios. From conducting controlled experiments to evaluating new cultivation techniques to developing innovative solutions for agricultural challenges, the Zillman Family Greenhouse facility fosters a rich, immersive learning experience. Additionally, you’ll have the chance to collaborate with faculty researchers and contribute to projects that push the boundaries of agricultural science and technology.
Research In the Lab
Our program places a strong emphasis on applied research. UMPI’s facilities provide a fertile ground for you to practice your research skills while actively contributing to the advancement of agricultural practices. Students will have the opportunity to engage in innovative research projects that address pressing challenges faced by local farming communities. From developing novel strategies for crop production to investigating integrated pest management scenarios, you’ll play a role in finding practical solutions that enhance overall agricultural resilience. Guided by faculty mentors and equipped with modern and advanced tools, you’ll cultivate a deep understanding of rigorous scientific methodologies, experimental design, and data analysis techniques.
Student Organization
Through involvement in student-led organizations, you’ll have the opportunity to cultivate your passion for agriculture alongside like-minded peers. Student organizations, such as the Ag Club, serve as incubators for personal growth, leadership development, and professional networking. By actively participating in thought-provoking discussions, attending industry events, and collaborating on hands-on projects, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for agricultural science and agribusiness. Beyond professional networking, involvement in these student-driven communities provides you with invaluable soft skills, such as effective communication, teamwork, and problem-solving abilities, that are highly sought after by employers in the agricultural sector and beyond.
Why UMPI?
What sets us apart? Simply put: hands-on learning experience.
Our hands-on approach means that you will spend as much time in the lab, field, or greenhouse as in the classroom. Here’s how we do it:
- We leverage our connections to the local agricultural research and business community to solve real agricultural issues.
- UMPI is in the center of Maine’s production agriculture sector.
- Our campus resources include 60 acres of farmland, a soil science lab, a plant biology lab, research labs, and a new 30×80 teaching and research greenhouse.
- We collaborate with local farmers, agribusinesses, Aroostook Research Farm, Maine Sustainable Agriculture Society, Maine Potato Board, among others.
- We have paid student research positions during the academic year, and research assistantships and internships during the summer
Research Facility
Zillman Family Greenhouse
This state-of-the-art, 2,400-square-foot teaching and research greenhouse includes two research labs, a teaching classroom, and a faculty office. A four season greenhouse, it includes important technology–such as LED lighting, a precision watering and ventilation system, and advanced climate control system and sensor capacity–that helps support research in disease management, soil fertility, and economic opportunities for Maine growers and agricultural producers.
The Zillman Family Greenhouse allows the University to:
- Offer in-depth, hands-on courses in plant biology, soil science, plant and crop science, and integrated pest management
- Allow for year round research opportunities
- Host professional development workshops for training in techniques such as seedling production and grafting
- Help meet the needs of the region’s agricultural industry
- Prepare skilled workers for one of the region’s primary economic drivers
Faculty
Larry Feinstein
- Location
- 308 South Hall
- Phone
- (207) 768-9498
- larry.feinstein@maine.edu
Jason C Johnston
- Location
- 315 South Hall
- Phone
- (207) 768-9652
- jason.johnston@maine.edu
Judith Ladd Roe
- Location
- 316 South Hall
- Phone
- (207) 768-9446
- judith.roe@maine.edu
Matthew Wallhead
- Location
- South 307
- matthew.wallhead@maine.edu
Chunzeng Wang
- Location
- 306 South Hall
- Phone
- (207) 768-9412
- chunzeng.wang@maine.edu
Noah Winslow
- Phone
- (207) 540-7783
- noah.winslow@maine.edu
EXPECT to Finish in Four
EXPECT to Finish in Four
Agricultural Science and Agribusiness Program Offerings
If you’re interested in exploring a degree in Environmental Science with a focus in Agriculture, check out our Environmental Science and Sustainability degree with a Sustainable Agriculture concentration.
What can you do with a degree in Agricultural Science and Agribusiness?
Next Step: Admissions
We’re so excited that you’re considering the University of Maine at Presque Isle! As a student at UMPI, we want your experience to be anything but ordinary! So what makes UMPI extraordinary? Our Learning Environment, Our Student Engagement and Our Location!
No matter what stage of life you are in, we can help you take the plunge into higher education and put you on YOUR PATH TO SUCCESS!