Many of the 29 universities currently offering technology programs recently changed the scope of their programs to focus on emerging technologies, as they apply to food and agricultural systems. The name of the respective programs reflect the philosophy of the school in responding to these issues. So although they may have different names, the programs are really quite similar. Agricultural Technology Management Agricultural Technology and Systems Management Bioresources Engineering Technology Mechanized Systems Management Technical Systems Management Today agricultural engineers and systems management graduates both work with the same types of buildings and equipment, the same crops and animals and the global society, yet there is a distinct difference in what they do. When comparing systems management to engineering, the systems programs are less theoretical and more practical.
Emphasis is on application experiences and most courses have laboratory or recitation sessions.
An agricultural systems management degree combines an understanding of the agricultural, biological, and physical sciences with managerial and technical skills. This understanding of science, systems management and applications engineering can be used in a career in the production and processing of food, fiber, feed, and fuel. Students focus on the application of engineering principles, the study of agricultural technology and the integration of the business management concepts in the food and agricultural industry. This degree is ideal for students interested in technical sales or being a technical manager for an agricultural related business involved in production, processing, service or manufacturing. Systems management graduates are in great demand.