The Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources Education and Communication Systems offers programs leading to the Bachelor of Science, Master of Science, and Doctor of Philosophy degrees. It also conducts research and develops programs in the areas of agriculture and natural resources-related communications, personnel development, instructional strategies, leadership, program evaluation, distance learning, organizational management, extension, and international agriculture. Credit and non-credit courses, both on and off campus, are offered for MSU extension personnel and teachers of agriscience. Workshops and seminars are conducted to provide professional development for those involved in the agricultural and natural resources industries. Through an educational materials distribution service, individual instructional units and other materials are made available to the general public, teachers and Extension field staff.
Faculty also provide leadership for many student organizations.
The master's and doctoral degree programs in agricultural and extension education consist of a planned course of study that leads to the acquisition of specific knowledge, skills, and abilities. Students and faculty engaged in these programs become part of a community committed to the rigorous study and application of the concepts of education, teaching and learning. The program recognizes that each student has unique needs and abilities that must be addressed in an individual manner. Graduates may be employed in various settings including higher education public schools, distance education organizations, agribusiness government agencies, and extension programs. Special emphasis is available in the areas of distance education and evaluation research.