Agricultural Scientists

Certification or Licensing

Certification is not required for most agricultural scientist careers but can improve a candidate's chances of landing a job. The American Society of Agronomy certifies agronomists and crop advisers, the American Registry of Professional Animal Scientists certifies animal scientists, and the Soil Science Society of America certifies soil scientists and soil classifiers. In general, requirements include meeting a minimum education level and having a certain amount of work experience (for example, a bachelor's degree and five years of work experience or a master's degree and three years of experience), passing an exam, and having appropriate references. Recertification requirements typically include:

• completing a certain amount of continuing education credits every two years
• paying dues
• adhering to a code of ethics

According to the American Society of Agricultural and Biological Engineers, agricultural engineers must hold an engineer's license. Applicants for registration (licensing) must have received a degree from an ABET-accredited engineering program and have four years of experience. They must also pass a written examination administered by the state where they wish to work.