The Bachelor of Applied Science (BASc) in Agribusiness at Olds College of Agriculture & Technology in Olds, Alberta, is a forward-thinking undergraduate program designed to prepare students for leadership and management roles within the rapidly evolving agri-food sector. The program integrates applied learning, business strategy, and agricultural innovation, enabling students to bridge the gap between modern agricultural practices and commercial success. Through a combination of classroom instruction, practical training, and industry engagement, learners develop a strong foundation in agricultural economics, farm management, finance, marketing, and sustainability. Olds College is renowned for its “Smart Agriculture Ecosystem,” where cutting-edge technology, data-driven farming, and entrepreneurial thinking drive education and applied research.
Curriculum: The curriculum of the Bachelor of Applied Science in Agribusiness blends theoretical learning with hands-on experience. Students begin by mastering the fundamentals of business, economics, and agricultural sciences before advancing to topics such as supply chain management, data analytics, precision agriculture, and sustainable resource management. Courses often emphasize applied projects, case studies, and simulations that reflect real-world industry challenges. The program also includes a directed field study or internship, providing students with professional exposure and the opportunity to apply their classroom knowledge in practical settings. This applied approach ensures graduates are job-ready and capable of managing complex agribusiness operations effectively.
Research Focus: Olds College is a leader in applied research and innovation in smart agriculture. The institution’s research initiatives focus on agricultural technology adoption, crop and livestock innovation, environmental sustainability, and agri-food data analytics. The college’s Smart Farm acts as a living laboratory where students, faculty, and industry partners collaborate on projects involving precision agriculture, digital tools, autonomous equipment, and climate-smart farming techniques. This research-driven environment empowers students to contribute to solving real agricultural challenges and advancing Canada’s agri-tech ecosystem.
Industry Engagement: Industry collaboration is a core pillar of the Agribusiness program at Olds College. The institution works closely with leading agricultural companies, technology developers, producers, and government organizations to ensure that its curriculum aligns with industry needs. Students benefit from guest lectures, networking events, and mentorship opportunities from industry professionals. The college’s partnerships also lead to valuable internship placements and potential career pathways across agribusiness, supply chain management, agri-finance, and agricultural consulting. This strong industry connection helps bridge the gap between academic theory and workplace application, giving students a competitive advantage in the job market.
Global Perspective: The Bachelor of Applied Science in Agribusiness at Olds College provides students with a global outlook on agriculture and trade. The program emphasizes international markets, export strategies, food security, and global sustainability practices. Through exchange opportunities and exposure to diverse agricultural systems, students gain insights into how global trends such as climate change, digital transformation, and population growth impact food production and agribusiness operations. This international perspective equips graduates to work not only within Canada’s thriving agri-sector but also in global agribusiness markets.
