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Bachelor of Applied Science Degree - Agribusiness

Agriculture Business

What You’ll Learn in the Bachelor of Applied Science – Agribusiness

This two-year program will equip you with the necessary skills, such as critical thinking, problem solving and collaborative investigation, to solve real-world business challenges.

Through industry focused instruction, you’ll spend the first year on campus learning how to apply business fundamentals such as finance, marketing, strategic business management, human resources, applied research, innovation and leadership. During this time you will also develop communication, networking, teamwork and time management skills while completing projects with classmates and industry clients on relevant current topics.

Jump to Program Details

Applications open on the first Wednesday of October

Our easy online application process guides you through each step, making it simple to apply and get started. Start preparing now, and be ready to apply!

Get started — learn how to apply today!

Program Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this program, graduates will receive a diploma in Agricultural Management, with a major in Agriculture Production or Agricommerce.

Work-Integrated Learning

Fourth year students of the Bachelor of Applied Science - Agribusiness program will be required to complete an eight-month Directed Field Study, providing you with a unique opportunity to apply both academic and experiential learning in the workplace with the support of identified industry mentorship.

Career Outcomes

Our graduates are highly sought after, thanks to our strong industry partnerships and hands-on training. You’ll be well-prepared for a variety of exciting careers in agriculture, including:

  • Financial services
  • Agri-services
  • Sales and marketing
  • Value-added agricultural production
  • Government agencies
  • Entry level management

Ready to start your career?

Visit ALIS - Occupational Profiles to discover current wages, industry trends, and more about your future job.

"This program is a great way to fast track your education to obtain an Applied Degree. The Directed Field Study of your choice allows you to grow further than a traditional degree program. It is a tremendous way to develop professionally and advance your knowledge no matter where you choose to go in the agriculture industry. It allowed me to grow in my career while adding to my diploma education and building the workplace relationships which have gotten me to where I am today."

Mikayla Flinn, 2019 Graduate (DFS Employer: Farm Credit Canada, Red Deer and Calgary, AB)

Program Details

    • Minimum 2.5 GPA in a diploma or degree (including journeypersons with a diploma or advanced diploma) from a field of study in agriculture, agriculture technology/mechanics, land, environment, or other agriculturally related fields of study.
    • Meet the English Language Proficiency Requirement
    OR
    • Minimum 2.5 GPA in a diploma or degree (including journeypersons with a diploma or advanced diploma) from any field of study, and a statement of interest and a resume outlining previous work and education experience. The statement of interest should highlight the student’s current interests and prior experience in agriculture and/or agribusiness. This should include details about their:
      • Transferable or relevant agricultural skills and knowledge (such as agriculture production and/or animal care, agriculture technology, leadership or entrepreneurship in an agricultural environment, etc.),
      • Community or volunteer experience in agriculture or rural living, and
      • A description of how the Bachelor of Applied Science-Agribusiness program will help the student achieve their education and career goals, with a specific connection to agriculture and agribusiness.
      • The applicant’s resume should confirm these relevant agricultural skills, knowledge and experiences.
    • Meet the English Language Proficiency Requirement

    Directed Field Study Required: An 8-month Directed Field Study is undertaken upon successful completion of all third year courses. Students will develop individualized learning plans and complete the study based upon their learning goals. Upon completion of the Directed Field Study, each student will submit all required final assignments.

    International Students in this program will require a Co-Op Permit, a Study Permit and a Social Insurance Number for this program.

    Transfer Options: Olds College of Agriculture & Technology has developed agreements with other educational institutions to allow for transition to Olds College, or to another institution to continue your education. Articulations & Agreements

    Out of Province Applicants: Please refer to the Provincial Equivalency Chart for course equivalencies.

    International Applicants: Olds College welcomes applications from international applicants and those who have completed their post-secondary education outside of Canada. Please note that students must meet all noted admission requirements, including English Language Proficiency. International Students in this program require a Co-Op Permit, a Study Permit, and a Social Insurance Number to participate in the Directed Field Study, which occurs in the program's final year. Learn more on the International Students page.

  • Estimated Tuition & Fees for Domestic Applicants

    Year Tuition Fees Books & Supplies Estimated Total
    Year 3 $$5,909.30 $1,554.50 $2,335.00 $9,798.80
    Year 4 $5,239.80 $989.10 $0.00 $6,228.90
    • These fees are provided as estimates only based on the current academic year.
    • The estimate only includes tuition, mandatory fees and books & supplies.
    • Refer to the appropriate academic year Fee Schedule for the most up to date information.
    • International students pay a differentiated tuition rate and should refer to the appropriate academic year Fee Schedule.

    Tuition, Fees & Payments


    Housing & Meal Plans

    Olds College offers two residence options — Centennial Village and College Courts. Students living on campus are required to choose a meal plan. Housing and meal plan costs are based on the full academic year (September to April), but students in single-term programs will only pay for the corresponding term. 

    For more details, visit Dining at Olds College and Campus Housing.

    Scholarships & Student Awards

    Olds College of Agriculture & Technology offers over 450 awards, valued at $500,000+ in scholarships, bursaries and prizes. Thanks to our industry partners, alumni, and friends of Olds College we are fortunate to offer a generous student awards program to students.

    For additional information on scholarships, bursaries and prizes at Olds College, visit Scholarships & Awards

    Student Funding

    For information on how to apply for government student loans, financial aid or for help with financial planning, visit our Student Funding page.

  • For course descriptions and requisites, view the Academic Calendar.

    Academic Calendar: Bachelor of Applied Science - Agribusiness

    Term 1
    • Complete all of the following
      • Completed the following:
        • MGT3100 - Financial Management 
        • MGT3200 - Project Management for Agriculture
        • MGT3400 - Strategic Human Resources Management 
        • MGT3600 - Economics and Risk Management 
        • MKG3000 - Strategic Marketing 
      • Completed or concurrently enrolled in:
        • BAS3999 - Introduction to Self-directed Learning 
    Term 2
    • Completed the following:
      • BAS3999 - Introduction to Self-directed Learning 
      • MGT3333 - Agricultural Innovation and Leadership 
      • MGT3500 - Applied Research 
      • MKG3500 - International Marketing 
      • MGT4000 - Strategic Business Management 
    Term 3
    • Completed or concurrently enrolled in:
      • BAS4999 - Directed Field Study 
    Term 4
    • Completed the following:
      • BAS4999 - Directed Field Study 
  • Program Dates

    Find out when your term start and end dates are, so that you know when you are expected to be in attendance. For more information, please review the Program Dates & Fee Schedule.

    Class Registration

    You will be registered into your classes automatically. This will happen approximately 1 month prior to the start-date for your program. You will be notified once you have been timetabled into your courses. You will be able to see your class schedule in your My Olds College account. If you need to make any changes to your class registration, please contact the Office of the Registrar.

    Technology Recommendation

    It is required that you come to Olds College of Agriculture & Technology with the following technology:

    • A laptop capable of running Microsoft Office is mandatory for this program, as students will be using Excel and other Microsoft Office programs extensively in lectures and classes.

    As part of your student accounts, all students have access to Office 365 for the duration of their time with Olds College. To access this you just need to follow these steps:

    • Go to portal.office.com
    • Enter your Olds College email address and password
    • Once logged in there is a button on the right that says "Install Office Apps"

    This will give you access to the full Office suite on your computer, for both Windows and Mac based platforms.

    Materials & Supplies

    The following items are required:

    Information on required textbooks and any further supplies will be provided as you attend each class. All books and supplies will be available during the first few weeks of classes in the College Campus Store.

    Textbook Order Form

    Other Important Information:

    • Time Requirements: This program involves a lot of group work and projects, which will require extra time outside of regular class hours to complete.

The Olds College Experience

Centennial Village at Olds College

Live on Campus!

Living on campus at Olds College offers the ultimate convenience, just a five-minute walk from all buildings. Enjoy a vibrant community, academic support, and exciting activities, all within reach. With cost-effective living, including furnished rooms and inclusive utilities, your campus life is hassle-free. 

Learn About Campus Housing

Centennial Village at Olds College

Meet the Experts Shaping Tomorrow’s Leaders

Olds College is proud of its expert faculty, dedicated to providing hands-on learning and high-tech experiences. With a wealth of knowledge in fields like equine reproduction, veterinary sciences, horticulture, and more, our instructors are committed to shaping the next generation of skilled professionals. Many have received accolades such as the Presidential Instructional Excellence Award and Instructor Emeritus titles, showcasing their exceptional contributions to education.

View our Faculty

Smart Agriculture Students with in a field

Hands-On Training on the Olds College Smart Farm

Gain hands-on experience at Olds College’s Smart Farm, where you’ll work with cutting-edge technology in crop and livestock management. This innovative facility provides real-world applications in areas like autonomous equipment and regenerative agriculture, ensuring students are prepared for the future of farming.

The Smart Farm at Olds College

Smart Agriculture Students with in a field

Applications open on the first Wednesday of October!

Don’t miss your opportunity to join one of our high-demand programs. With limited seats and first-come, first-served admissions, applying early gives you the best chance to secure your spot. 

Domestic applicants pay an application fee of $90. International applicants pay an application fee of $160. Apply now using the online application portal. If you are applying online, this fee must be paid with a credit card.

Learn About the Application Process

Take the Next Step

Begin your career in agriculture, brewing, livestock, equestrian, horticulture, and related fields with one simple click.

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Program at a Glance

Length: Diploma + Minimum 16-Months

Delivery Method: On-campus + DFS

Program Intake: Fall Intake (Sept. start)

Applications Open: October

Program Status: Open

CIP Code: 01.0102

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If you can’t find the information you’re looking for or need further assistance, don’t hesitate to reach out! Our Student Success team is ready to help you navigate your academic journey and provide the support you need.

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