Alcorn State University carries forward its commitment to empowering individuals and communities, creating enduring opportunities for future generations. Through collaborative partnerships, the university ensures a promising future for its students and the communities they serve. With a focus on teaching, research, and extension, Alcorn State University strives to cultivate a better quality of life, locally and globally, for all those it serves.
The College of Agriculture and Applied Sciences (CAAS) at Alcorn State University is dedicated to preparing highly skilled graduate and undergraduate students to adapt to the ever-changing agricultural sector and pursue advanced training. CAAS comprises three academic departments: Agriculture, Human Sciences, Advanced Technologies, along with the Center of Biotechnology.
The key objectives of CAAS include: 1) establishing effective teaching programs that equip students for successful careers in Agriculture, Human Sciences, and Technology; 2) conducting research programs aimed at generating new knowledge and improving the application of existing knowledge for the benefit of the people of Mississippi, the broader region, and the nation; and 3) engaging with local communities through extension and outreach programs in the areas of Agriculture, Human Sciences, Technology, and related fields.
The Department of Advanced Technologies encompasses a wide range of engineering, technology, and applied science fields. This comprehensive approach brings together various engineering and applied science disciplines, all falling under the broader umbrella of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM).
The Department offers three undergraduate degrees and two graduate degrees. Undergraduate programs include a Bachelor of Science in Applied Science with concentrations in:
– Bio-Medical Engineering Technology
– Computer Engineering Technology
– Electro-Mechanical Engineering Technology
– Geospatial Engineering Technology
– Natural Resource Management
– Radiation Technology/Health Physics (HP)
– Nuclear Engineering Technology
– Medical Radiologic Science and Technology
Additionally, the Department offers a Bachelor of Science in Computer Networking and Information Technology, and a Bachelor of Science in Robotics and Automation Technology.
The graduate degree program includes a Master of Science in Applied Science and Technology, as well as a Master of Science in Workforce Education Leadership (WEL) – Online.
The Department of Agriculture offers agriculture education and exceptional professional leadership in research, teaching, and extension. The program focuses on specific areas such as Agronomy, Horticulture, Biofuels and bioprocessing, Mycology, Plant Breeding, Plant Pathology, Entomology, Plant Tissue Culture, Soil Science, Soil Microbiology, Virology, Agricultural Economics, and Agribusiness Management.
The department supports student research through one on-campus and two off-campus Agriculture Research Experiment Stations, as well as access to greenhouses, orchards, vineyards, swine research, Mississippi River research, and state-of-the-art laboratories.
Bachelor of Science Degree Programs:
- Agribusiness Management
- Agricultural Economics
- Animal/Poultry Science 3+1 Program with MSU
- Agricultural Sciences with concentrations in:
- Agribusiness Management
- Agricultural Biotechnology
- Agriculture Economics
- Animal Sciences and Pre-Veterinary
- General Agriculture
- Natural Resources and Environmental Science
- Plant, Soil, and Horticultural Sciences
Master of Science Degree Programs:
- Agronomy (Thesis Track Only)
- Agronomy Professional (Online and Non-Thesis Track Only)
- Animal Science (Thesis Track Only)
- Agriculture Extension Education (Online and Non-Thesis Only)
- Agriculture Economics (Thesis and Non-Thesis Track)
The Department of Human Sciences offers education, research, and outreach programs focusing on human interaction and relationships, early childhood, child development, youth, adult, and family studies. Additionally, specific educational programs emphasize the use of technology for problem-solving and program/project design.
The mission of the Department of Human Sciences is to prepare students for employment and/or graduate school in human development and family science, as well as in food, nutrition, and community health sciences. The goal is to promote positive well-being, healthy relationships, and adequate resources for individuals, families, and communities. This mission is achieved through the dissemination of current knowledge, education of professionals, and provision of research-based programs.
The undergraduate degree programs include a Bachelor of Science in Human Development and Family Science (HDFS) and a Bachelor of Science in Food, Nutrition, and Community Health Sciences (FNCHS).
Biotechnology is both a figurative and applicable science that involves reimagining and reengineering living systems to meet the demands of mankind. This can lead to the development of more efficient, economical, sustainable, and safer products than what naturally occurs. The primary goal of the master’s degree program in biotechnology is to train students in cellular and molecular biology as well as genetic engineering. Students will gain a strong foundation in the principles of genetics and molecular biology for both prokaryotic and eukaryotic organisms. They will then have the opportunity to specialize in an area that aligns with their interests and career goals. Upon graduation, students will be equipped to pursue positions in government, university, or industry and may also choose to pursue further education in graduate or professional schools. The graduate degree program offered is a Master of Science in Biotechnology.
SCHOLARSHIP UPDATES
Scholarship Opportunities Now Open!
The College of Agriculture and Applied Sciences is excited to announce that scholarship applications are now officially OPEN!
Whether you are an incoming freshman ready to begin your journey or a college/transfer student continuing your path, we have opportunities designed to support your success.
Don’t miss your chance to invest in your future
Funding available for qualified students
Take the next step toward your academic and career goals
Apply today using the links below:
High School Graduating Senior: Click here to apply
College/Transfer Students: Click here to apply
Deadline to apply is August 15, 2026.
