Western ND News

Big changes are taking place at Dickinson State University (DSU) as its agriculture program undergoes renovations and expansions. The improvements include updates to the agricultural educational wing and an expanded indoor rodeo arena, part of a broader effort to enhance agricultural education and equip students with advanced resources for careers in the industry.

Dr. Chip Poland, professor of agriculture and chair of the Department of Agriculture and Technical Studies, provided insights into DSU’s offerings and the significance of these upgrades for the program's future.

DSU offers various academic paths in agriculture, including certificates, associate degrees, and bachelor's degree options. Students can specialize in production, business, or resource management within the AS and BS degree programs. Additional emphasis areas in the BS program include equine studies, general agriculture, and agricultural communications.

The university also provides certificates in farm and ranch management, horse production, and meat processing. Technical offerings include a one-year welding certificate and an Associate of Applied Science in Diesel Technology. A collaborative 4+1 program with North Dakota State University (NDSU) allows students to earn a bachelor’s degree in Agricultural Studies with an Ag Education minor from DSU alongside a Master of Education in Agricultural Education from NDSU within five years.

Career opportunities for graduates are extensive according to Poland. "Oh my! Tell me what you want to do, and I’ll find an opportunity in agriculture," he said. Traditional roles like ranching and farming remain important; however, careers in agribusiness, finance, education, government service, conservation, and communications are viable paths as well.

The DSU agriculture curriculum combines classroom instruction with hands-on learning to prepare students for real-world applications. The program emphasizes leadership development and communication skills to ensure graduates can contribute meaningfully to their careers and communities.

Recent renovations represent significant progress for the program. Poland noted that upgrading the Ag Building integrates modern technology with traditional hands-on agricultural instruction by creating smart classrooms while maintaining spaces for practical activities.

The expansion of DSU’s multipurpose indoor arena will enhance equine and livestock learning experiences while supporting the competitive rodeo program. Alongside improvements like those made to the meats lab—which supports the meat processing certificate—these changes set up future growth potential.

“Agriculture is alive and well in western North Dakota,” Poland stated. “The investments made by DSU—the North Dakota University System—and state entities have positioned our agriculture program to expand thrive serving both our students economy region.”

With new facilities comprehensive evolving curriculum Dickinson State University continues leading way agricultural education preparing students succeed region's vital industries.

For more information on DSU’s agriculture programs visit dickinsonstate.edu/academics