Undergraduate Certificate in Agricultural Leadership
OVERVIEW
Who is this program for?
The Agricultural Leadership Undergraduate Certificate is designed for students who want to make a difference in their communities and industries. Whether you're pursuing a degree in agriculture, business, communications, or another related field, this certificate will help you grow into a confident, capable leader. If you're curious about how leadership intersects with real-world agricultural challenges, this program is for you.
Program Overview
The Agricultural Leadership Undergraduate Certificate equips students with the tools to lead in one of the most vital sectors of the economy. With agriculture, food, and related industries accounting for over 10% of U.S. employment, the need for visionary, skilled leaders has never been greater. This certificate blends leadership theory with practical application, offering students a foundation in critical thinking, emotional intelligence, and project management—all through the lens of agriculture and food systems. Students will engage with contemporary issues, collaborate in teams, and gain real-world experience that prepares them to be agents of change in their fields. Please reach out to CAFEadvising@uky.edu if you have questions about this program.
Related Careers
Students seeking careers in agribusiness, community development, education, extension, food systems, law, organizational leadership, public policy, or related fields would benefit from this certificate.
How to Add this Certificate
Prospective students: Certificates are declared once you are a current University of Kentucky student.
Current students: You can add this certificate in myUK GPS. Under "My Program of Study" on the right side of the screen, click the link "Request a major/minor/certificate change". If you need help, contact your academic advisor.
You should talk with your academic advisor about how adding a program to your plan of study will impact graduation time and any graduation requirements of your major.
FIND OUT EXACTLY
What You'll Learn
Through this certificate, students will develop a strong foundation in leadership principles tailored to the agricultural context. You'll enhance your ability to think critically and solve complex problems, communicate effectively across diverse audiences, and manage projects with confidence. The program emphasizes emotional intelligence, ethical decision-making, and the ability to lead in dynamic, team-based environments. By the end, you'll be equipped to navigate and influence the evolving challenges facing agriculture, food, and environmental industries.
Degree requirements, course descriptions and academic policies for all programs are detailed in the University Catalog.
Get Involved!
Students who get involved in activities outside of the classroom tend to do better academically and develop meaningful relationships with others at UK. Our network of student organizations and activities has something for everyone, from academic to professional to fun!
Join the Martin-Gatton CAFE Living Learning Program
Live in a community full of others who share your interests in agriculture, food and environment! Community members also gain access to specialized programs that foster relationships, professional growth, and community.
