Bachelor of Applied Science - Agribusiness
The Bachelor of Applied Science (BASc) in Agribusiness at Olds...
Diploma in Agricultural Management - Major in Agricommerce
Olds, Alberta
INTAKE: September
Program Overview
The Diploma in Agricultural Management – Major in Agricommerce at Olds College of Agriculture & Technology in Olds, Alberta, is a dynamic and industry-driven program designed for students who aspire to bridge the gap between agriculture and business. This program prepares graduates to take on leadership and entrepreneurial roles within the agri-food sector by combining agricultural knowledge with essential business, finance, and marketing skills. The focus is on developing professionals who can analyze market trends, manage agribusiness operations, and apply innovative strategies to enhance profitability and sustainability in the agricultural value chain. With access to Olds College’s renowned Smart Agriculture Ecosystem, students gain hands-on experience with digital technologies, real-world business simulations, and applied learning environments that reflect current industry standards.
Curriculum: The curriculum of the Diploma in Agricultural Management – Major in Agricommerce blends foundational business education with specialized agricultural studies. In the first year, students learn core concepts such as agricultural economics, marketing, financial management, accounting, and communications. As they progress, they delve into advanced topics like supply chain logistics, agri-finance, agricultural law, entrepreneurship, and digital marketing. The program emphasizes experiential learning through case studies, applied projects, and real-world agribusiness simulations, allowing students to develop problem-solving and decision-making skills in authentic industry contexts. Field trips and collaborations with agribusiness enterprises further enhance students’ understanding of how production, marketing, and finance interact within the agri-food sector. The inclusion of a work-integrated learning component ensures that graduates are prepared to enter the workforce with confidence and practical experience.
Research Focus: At Olds College, applied research plays a pivotal role in enhancing learning outcomes and driving innovation in agriculture and commerce. The Diploma in Agricultural Management – Major in Agricommerce aligns closely with the college’s commitment to applied research in areas such as agri-business innovation, supply chain optimization, digital agriculture, and sustainable production systems. Students benefit from exposure to the Olds College Smart Farm, a living research hub where agricultural data, technology, and business models are tested and refined. Through participation in research-based projects, learners gain insights into emerging market opportunities, consumer behavior, and agri-tech adoption trends. This hands-on research approach cultivates analytical and entrepreneurial thinking, empowering students to contribute meaningfully to the advancement of Canada’s agri-commerce landscape.
Industry Engagement: Strong industry collaboration is a cornerstone of the Agricommerce major at Olds College. The program is developed in close consultation with agricultural producers, business leaders, technology providers, and government agencies to ensure that its curriculum aligns with current market needs and future workforce demands. Students benefit from guest lectures, workshops, mentorship programs, and networking events featuring experts from across the agri-food sector. Industry partnerships also provide valuable internship and employment opportunities, giving students real-world exposure to business operations, sales, and management practices. This direct engagement with the agricultural industry not only enhances employability but also allows students to build lasting professional relationships that support their career growth.
Global Perspective: The Diploma in Agricultural Management – Major in Agricommerce provides students with a strong understanding of the global agricultural economy and the interconnectedness of markets, trade, and food systems. The program explores international agricultural marketing, global supply chains, trade policies, and sustainability initiatives, preparing students to operate in a competitive global environment. Learners examine how global trends—such as climate change, population growth, and technological innovation—impact agricultural trade and business strategies. With this global outlook, graduates are equipped to work across international markets or manage domestic agribusinesses with a global vision. The emphasis on innovation, sustainability, and cross-cultural business communication ensures that Olds College graduates emerge as forward-thinking leaders capable of advancing agriculture and commerce on a worldwide scale.
Location
Olds, Alberta
Score
IELTS 6
Tuition Fee
CAD 16500
Undergraduate Diploma Entry Requirements
Academic Qualifications: Applicants for undergraduate diploma programs typically require a minimum academic achievement of 53% or above in their Grade 12 from a recognized institution.
English Language Proficiency:
- IELTS: Overall band score of 6.0 with a minimum of 6.0 in each component.
- TOEFL: Overall score of 80 or higher.
- PTE: Overall score of 55 or higher.
- DET (Duolingo English Test): Minimum score of 110.
Olds College of Agriculture & Technology is dedicated to recognizing and rewarding the hard work, academic excellence, and community involvement of its international students. To make education more accessible and to encourage global talent, the college offers a variety of scholarships, bursaries, and awards designed to support international learners financially throughout their studies.
Olds College International Student Entrance Scholarship: This scholarship is awarded to newly admitted international students who have demonstrated strong academic performance prior to joining Olds College. Applicants are evaluated based on their academic transcripts, leadership experience, and extracurricular achievements. The award not only helps reduce tuition costs but also motivates students to continue striving for excellence throughout their studies.
Continuing International Student Scholarship: For students who have successfully completed at least one semester at Olds College, the Continuing International Student Scholarship recognizes consistent academic achievement and active participation in campus life. This award encourages students to maintain high academic standards and remain engaged with the college community.
Financial Need Bursaries: To assist international students facing financial challenges, Olds College provides need-based bursaries that help cover tuition, books, and living expenses. Applicants are required to provide a short personal statement outlining their financial situation, academic goals, and how the bursary will support their success. These bursaries ensure that financial hardship does not limit access to quality education.
Graduates of the Diploma in Agricultural Management – Major in Agricommerce at Olds College of Agriculture & Technology in Olds, Alberta, are well-prepared for a wide range of professional opportunities that combine agriculture, business, and technology. This program equips students with the essential knowledge and practical skills to manage agribusiness operations, develop marketing strategies, analyze market trends, and support the commercial success of agricultural enterprises.
Agribusiness Manager: Oversee agricultural operations, manage budgets, coordinate marketing and sales, and develop business strategies to ensure the financial success and sustainability of farming enterprises.
Agricultural Marketing Specialist: Design and implement marketing campaigns for agricultural products, focusing on branding, pricing, promotions, and distribution strategies across local and international markets.
Agri-Finance Officer: Work with financial institutions to provide loans, credit assessments, and investment advice to farmers and agribusinesses, ensuring sound financial management and business growth.
Supply Chain and Logistics Coordinator: Manage the movement of agricultural goods from farm to market by optimizing logistics, distribution, inventory, and quality control across the agri-food supply chain.
Agricultural Sales Representative: Promote and sell agricultural products, equipment, seeds, fertilizers, or technologies while providing expert advice to clients on product use and performance.
Farm Business Consultant: Advise producers and agribusiness owners on strategic planning, marketing, financial forecasting, and technology adoption to improve profitability and competitiveness.
Commodity Trader / Analyst: Monitor market trends, evaluate commodity prices, and manage trading strategies for agricultural products such as grains, livestock, and fertilizers in domestic and global markets.
Entrepreneur / Agribusiness Owner: Start and manage an independent agribusiness venture such as a farm supply company, agri-tech startup, or value-added food production business focused on innovation and sustainability.
Agricultural Policy or Trade Advisor: Work with government agencies, industry associations, or international organizations to analyze agricultural trade policies, export opportunities, and market regulations.
Marketing and Communications Coordinator (Agri-Food Sector): Develop communication strategies and digital marketing campaigns to promote agricultural products, agribusiness services, or sustainability initiatives within the agri-food industry.
