College of Western Idaho is preparing to open its new Health and Science Building and Agricultural Sciences Complex this fall, uniting several programs under one roof to create modern, accessible,...
Read more about CWI'S New Nampa Facilities Near CompletionAgricultural Business, Leadership, and Education
Cultivate Leadership Skills for a Thriving Agricultural Career
Program Overview
Envision starting your journey in agricultural business at College of Western Idaho (CWI), where your educational path is our priority. The Agricultural Business, Leadership, and Education program is a unique blend of agriculture and business, tailored to nurture your aspirations. Here, you will learn about the ever-evolving agricultural industry, leadership, and education, preparing you for a multitude of roles within this vital sector.
At CWI, we offer more than just courses; we provide an experience that shapes your future. With small classes and attentive instructors, you receive the attention and support you need to thrive. This program is your first step toward higher education, giving you a competitive edge whether you plan to pursue a bachelor's degree or advance further. Students who begin at CWI often find greater success in their ongoing educational journeys, and our program is designed to ensure you are part of this success story.
Degree or Certificate Type
Associate of Arts
Cost
Additional cost may apply.
Time to Complete
2 years
Primary Locations
Coming Soon
Construction of a 40-acre site dedicated to the College's expanding Horticulture and Agricultural Science programs is well underway! With estimated completion planned for Summer 2025, the expansion will offer modern learning spaces including flex classrooms, greenhouses, a barn and working farm, experimental labs, and more.
Learning Opportunities
- Agricultural Business Insights: Gain comprehensive knowledge in agricultural business and leadership.
- Hands-On Experience: Apply your learning in real agricultural settings.
- Leadership Development: Cultivate leadership skills relevant to the agricultural industry.
- Pathway to Higher Education: Build a foundation for advanced degrees in agriculture-related fields.
- Personalized Support: Benefit from CWI’s small class sizes and dedicated faculty.
Areas of Study
Degrees & Certificates
Agriculture Business, Leadership, and Education – Associate of Arts Degree
Degree Requirements
Cost: $9,861
Career Opportunities
Postsecondary Teachers
1063
Annual Openings*
$35.10
Hourly Median Wage*
$73,008
Annual Median Salary
18.28%
Growth (2025 – 2035)*
Farmers, Ranchers, and Other Agricultural Managers
Plan, direct, or coordinate the management or operation of farms, ranches, greenhouses, aquacultural operations, nurseries, timber tracts, or other agricultural establishments. May hire, train, and supervise farm workers or contract for services to carry out the day-to-day activities of the managed operation. May engage in or supervise planting, cultivating, harvesting, and financial and marketing activities.
402
Annual Openings*
$18.65
Hourly Median Wage*
$38,792
Annual Median Salary
3.15%
Growth (2025 – 2035)*
First-Line Supervisors of Farming, Fishing, and Forestry Workers
Directly supervise and coordinate the activities of agricultural, forestry, aquacultural, and related workers.
25
Annual Openings*
$21.94
Hourly Median Wage*
$45,635
Annual Median Salary
9.34%
Growth (2025 – 2035)*
*Data sourced from Lightcast™, a labor market analytics tool, and limited to the state of Idaho. Contact CWI Institutional Research for questions regarding this data. Career pathways may require further education beyond CWI.
Testimonial Carousel
“This program is tough and requires a lot of work, but I believe it is one of the greatest fields to get into. I found my true calling late, but at least I found it.” Read more > about Reaping the Benefits of a Student’s Generosity
Admissions
Step 1
- Apply to CWI.
- Choose Agricultural Business, Leadership, and Education as your major.
Step 2
- Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
Cost & Aid
As a student in this program, you may be eligible for financial aid and scholarships.
Enrichment Opportunities
Enhance your academic experience, expand your knowledge, reach your goals, and celebrate your achievements.
Advising
Already a student? We are here to help you navigate your educational journey, connect you to academic and support resources, and achieve your academic or career goals.
Transfer Information
Plan ahead for a smooth transition to a four-year college or university.
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News
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Students in the Horticulture Technology program at College of Western Idaho gain both in-depth education and invaluable introductions to the industry and future employers.
Read more about Cultivating Success: Robin O’Neill Finds Growth in CWI’s Horticulture Program
The 2024 Farm to Fork dinner raised more than $6,000 for the garden, which provides CWI students access to fresh produce and supports agriculture coursework.
Read more about Farm to Fork Dinner Raises $6000 for the Campus Garden
Tickets for Farm to Fork, a dinner hosted by College of Western Idaho Agriculture Science faculty and students, are on sale on now!
Read more about Farm to Fork 2024 is Sold Out
Eighty people from across the College and around the Treasure Valley devoured a tasty, five-course meal on campus Friday, Oct. 6, to support CWI's Campus Garden.
Read more about Farm to Fork Dinner Raises $5,000 for the Campus Garden
The Campus Garden provides a valuable resource to the CWI community, from educating students about agriculture best practices to helping feed those who suffer from food insecurity.
Read more about Campus Garden Supporting Students and Their Success
Tickets for 2023 Farm to Fork, a dinner hosted by College of Western Idaho Agriculture Science faculty and students, have sold out!
Read more about 2023 Farm to Fork Tickets Sold Out!
College of Western Idaho took over Memorial Stadium in a BOLD way Thursday night during CWI Night at the Hawks raising more than $1,000 for scholarships.
Read more about SCORE Big Hits It Out of the Park
Congratulations to Andrea Schumaker, College of Western Idaho’s Faculty of Distinction for November 2020.
Read more about Faculty of Distinction – November 2020
Experience a true farm to fork meal from the comfort of your own home featuring produce grown in CWI's campus garden.
Read more about 2020 Farm to Fork Dinner
Farm to Fork Dinner was a tremendous success raising more than $4,000 for the campus garden.
Read more about Culinary Exploration of the Treasure ValleyRequest More Information
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