Agricultural Specialist Credential

Introduction

The Agriculture Credential Program at Cal Poly Pomona is designed to empower future educators with the comprehensive knowledge, practical skills, and teaching strategies essential for success in today’s middle school and high school agricultural classrooms and laboratories.

You can participate in this program if you are enrolled in an approved major within the Huntley College of Agriculture.

However, students are advised to enroll in the agricultural science major, which includes a waiver of the subject matter competency requirements.

Students in other majors must complete additional coursework to meet the requirements or receive a passing score on the California Subject Examinations for Teachers (CSET).

In addition, students in the program must have two years (or 3,000 hours) of practical work experience in the agriculture industry.

Students looking to continue to the credential program after earning their bachelor's degree are urged to consult the agricultural education program coordinator early in their college career.

Program Description

By completing both the Single Subject Credential and the Agriculture Specialist Credential, candidates become uniquely qualified to teach a wide range of agricultural content while developing leadership skills in agriculture.

Through rigorous coursework and immersive field experiences, credential candidates gain expertise in instructional planning, classroom management, student engagement, and culturally responsive teaching.

The program also emphasizes the integration of STEM principles, FFA leadership development, Supervised Agricultural Experience (SAE) programs, and career and technical education (CTE) strategies—preparing teachers to deliver hands-on, standards-based learning aligned with California’s agriculture education curriculum.

In addition, candidates build strong foundations in animal and plant science, agribusiness, sustainability, and natural resources, enabling them to teach across multiple agriculture pathways. Graduates of the program leave with the ability to manage a comprehensive agriculture program, including advising FFA chapters, coordinating student projects, and fostering community and industry partnerships.

They must also complete the course requirements for the agricultural specialist credential concurrently with the Single Subject Credential in agriculture. Some of the coursework for both credentials can be applied toward a master's degree in agriculture, agricultural science option.

At the conclusion of the credential program, candidates are not only credentialed professionals but also innovative, reflective, and passionate educators ready to shape the next generation of agricultural leaders. Cal Poly Pomona’s Single Subject in Agriculture and Agriculture Specialist credentials equip teachers with the tools to create impactful learning environments blending academic knowledge with real-world agricultural experiences.

Program Requirements

Students preparing to teach middle school or high school agriculture must complete the requirements of the Single Subject Credential in Agriculture and the requirements for the Agricultural Specialist Credential. Courses for the Agricultural Specialist Credential include:

For more information on applying to the credential program and the requirements of the Single Subject Credential in Agriculture, visit the Cal Poly Pomona Credential Program Website.