Animal and agriculture studies refers to the areas of education that are concerned with practical application of scientific methodologies to increase production of plant life for material use and sustenance, the care and health of domesticated animals, and the protection and maintenance of protected or managed lands.

Programs in these areas can vary greatly from one another in their scope yet may share various base studies and courses.  For example, many students will take courses in business, management, economics, ecology, and biology within these learning domains.

Concentrations within agriculture studies will dictate the specific classes needed to earn a degree in that field of study.  Most of the programs listed have a hands on component that provide practical experience prior to completion of an undergraduate or graduate degree.

Students interested in learning more about vocational opportunities in the field of animal studies, animal rights, and animal protection organizations can research the following:

• Humane Society of the United States (HSUS):  As the nation's largest animal protection organization, the Humane Society strives to resolve animal welfare issues across the country.  HSUS was founded in 1954 and continues to be a major force in animal rights year over year.
• Animal Justice Project (AJP): This organization was founded as a grassroots animal rights organization in the UK with dedicated activities in Europe and the U.S.  With a robust social media presence, the AJP team helps to inform via freedom of information tact.
• People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA):  PETA is non-profit organization that claims some six million members and supporters worldwide.  It is claimed to be the largest animal rights group in the world.
• American Association of Veterinarian State Boards (AAVSB):  The AAVSB is an association that was created as a national portal for those involved in the care and support of animals.  Veterinary professionals of all stripes have leveraged the examinations and registry of the AAVSB to advance this area of study.
• American Institute of Biological Sciences (AIBS): Helping professionals make informed decisions for society and science is at the core of what the AIBS stands to promote.  This organization offers a variety of membership benefits, community programs, publications, and peer review support services.

Degree pathways in the agricultural sector may include disciplines such as farming, soil science, agronomy, and much more.  National organizations that may be of interest to prospective students include the following:

• American Farm Bureau Federation (AFBF): Commonly known as the Farm Bureau, this group works via grassroots organizations to help support and sustain healthy agriculture organizations.  The Farm Bureau provides education, advocacy, and membership benefits to professionals across the country.
• National FFA Organization (FFA): Future Farmers of America is commonly known as the FFA and is a national organization focused on the individual student.  In addition to providing support for students interested in become production farmers, the FFA also provides support to aspiring doctors, scientist, and teachers.
• Institute of Food & Agricultural Sciences (IFAS): Founded by the University of Florida, the Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences supports practitioners in the agricultural field from coast to coast.  IFAS provides unique research and educational opportunities for those interested in learning more about agriculture.
• American Society of Agronomy (ASA): American Society of Agronomy is a national organization that offers a range of member benefits in addition to education tools and publications.  Additionally, the ASA provides targeted certifications for a variety of career paths such as crop advisor, sustainability, resistance management, soil science, nutritionist, and agronomist.
• Bureau of Land Management (BLM): BLM is an government agency that provides support and services across a myriad disciplines.  This organization helps professionals with news and insights into topics such as energy management, land records, minerals, public lands, range management, and law enforcement.