Online Graduate Certificate in Agribusiness from LSU
Gain practical, interdisciplinary skills spanning food science, agricultural economics, and business through coursework developed across multiple LSU colleges.
Develop the knowledge needed to advance into management roles across supply chain operations, food processing, distribution, and logistics.
Balance career growth with flexible, fully online coursework built for working professionals in the food industry.
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Admissions
Whether you’re returning to school or advancing your career, our admissions team is here to support you every step of the way.
Apply by
May 11, 2026
Classes begin
May 25, 2026
Admissions Requirements
A Bachelor's degree from a regionally-accredited college or university or the equivalent from a foreign institution with a minimum GPA of 3.0 on all undergraduate and graduate work already completed. You must provide transcripts for all of the colleges you have attended (regardless of degree completion) and upload copies with your application. Only admitted applicants will be required to send one sealed copy of official transcripts from EACH college and university attended, issued by the institution directly to:
The Graduate School
Louisiana State University
114 West David Boyd
Baton Rouge, LA 70803
- Include an updated professional resume.
- A one page (maximum) personal perspective to describe why you want to pursue this certificate at LSU.
- One to two letters of recommendation from professional or academic sources who can speak to your capabilities and disposition. For example, if you have significant work experience in a related field, a letter from your supervisor would be appropriate. If you have strong performance in your undergraduate program, a letter from one of your professors would be appropriate. Other sources may be considered as well.
- A GRE or GMAT test score is typically required for admission. Test waivers have been allowed for candidates who meet or exceed the minimum admission requirements. You may submit your application without test scores and the program office will notify you if a waiver is granted or not.
Additional information about LSU Graduate admission requirements are located here.
Tuition
LSU offers competitive, flat-rate tuition with no out-of-state fees. Plus, you may be able to save even more by transferring up to 75% of previous credits.
Tuition & Fees
- 12 credit hours
- Total credit hours per program
- $867
- Cost per credit hour
- $10,404
- Total cost with fees
LSU Online offers several ways to help you pay for your degree including credit for prior learning (PLA), financial aid, and veteran education benefits. Learn more.
The total cost above does not include transfer credit or financial aid. Cost per credit hour and fees are subject to change. Fee schedules may vary by program depending on course-specific fees for proctoring and/or books. Please contact a Student Success Coach for more information.
Financial Aid Available
LSU offers several ways to help you pay for your degree including credit for prior learning (PLA), financial aid, and veteran education benefits. Learn more ›
Academics
Students enrolled in this certificate program will learn to use their knowledge of multiple industries to successfully address supply chain and food processing issues.
Courses
Students need to complete 12 credit hours to earn this certificate. Below are the curriculum requirements:
| Courses | Credit hours |
|---|---|
Students need to take at least 3 credit hours from the following College of Agriculture courses: |
|
AGEC 7223: Application of Supply Chain Management in International Agribusiness |
3 |
NFS 7023: Food Safety Management Systems |
3 |
NFS 7024: Food Manufacturing |
3 |
NFS 7025: Food Processing Systems |
3 |
Students need to take at least 3 credit hours from the following E.J. Ourso College of Business courses: |
|
BADM 7020: Managerial Statistics |
3 |
BADM 7030: Financial Accounting |
3 |
BADM 7100: Marketing Management |
3 |
The remaining 6 credit hours can be taken from any of the above courses. |
What Will I Learn?
Learning outcomes include:
- Gain knowledge of food science packaging and processing issues
- Fully understand how supply chains function, disruptions occur, and solution scenarios
- Understand the relationship between general business practices and the food science industry
Why choose LSU’s online Graduate Certificate in Agribusiness?
The Graduate Certificate in Agribusiness at LSU is inspired by the late Don Welge’s vision for advancing the nation’s food supply chain. Developed through the Welge Food Beyond the Farm Certificate Fund, this program offers a unique opportunity to bridge the gap between the food sciences and business, making you an invaluable asset in the agribusiness industry. Through a flexible online curriculum and dedicated student support, this program makes it simpler to earn the education you need to advance your career.
This program equips students with an interdisciplinary skill set, preparing them for success in supply chain management, finance, analytics, food safety, and marketing management. Students gain expertise in global supply chain management, trade policies, mathematical modeling, food safety regulations, innovative food technologies, financial analysis, and predictive analytics. Additionally, they learn to hone their decision-making skills through simulated learning in key business functions. This certificate program fulfills Welge's legacy, addressing the critical need for a skilled workforce in the food industry while reflecting LSU's commitment to solving economic challenges.
Careers
Whether you aim to advance in your current role or transition into management, this certificate can help you earn the knowledge to achieve your goals.
Career Opportunities
- Manager of transportation
- Logistician
- Supply chain manager
- Distribution system manager
- Business manager
The Welge Food Beyond the Farm Initiative
The late Don Welge's (LSU '57) vision and passion for advancing the nation's food supply chain industry is what inspired the Welge Food Beyond the Farm Initiative. This certificate program is designed to offer continuing education for recent graduates and working professionals seeking to diversify their skillset and enhance their knowledge of the food supply chain.
Testimonials
The past few years have painfully demonstrated that, while resilient, the US and international food supply chain is not without its weaknesses. To address these concerns for our business and the entire food industry, there is a real need to grow the skills base of the current and next generations of food and agribusiness professionals. We believe the online Graduate Certificate in Agribusiness will help support all segments of the food supply chain, including growing, processing, logistics, manufacturing, and marketing.
