Academics
RICA is a full-time, three-year, accredited undergraduate academic program
At RICA, our unique approach to learning combines classroom coursework, field-based training, and real-world internship experiences, giving students the skills they need to be successful and develop careers of impact.
Overviews Years 1-3
RICA offers a full-time, three-year, accredited undergraduate academic program. Students gain hands-on experience working in both smallholder farming and commercial operations, while also developing skills in communication, leadership, and entrepreneurship. Our coursework is grounded in the principles of conservation agriculture, emphasizing sustainable production and soil health.
Areas of Study
In their second year, students gain experience over six enterprise areas spanning across the agricultural value chain. Enterprise focus areas include row and forage crops, grain and feed, mechanization and irrigation, poultry and swine, dairy, vegetable and tree fruits, and food processing.
Available Courses
RICA’s hands-on, experiential learning approach provides students with a world-class education that prepares them to be strategic thinkers and innovative problem solvers. RICA’s curriculum is grounded in the principles of conservation agriculture, with courses covering a range of foundational sciences in addition to specializations in animal production, crop production, food processing, and mechanization and irrigation systems.
Internships
In their third year, RICA students gain real-world experience through internships across the food and agriculture sector. Past internship hosts have included agribusinesses, food production companies, farmer cooperatives, government agencies, nonprofit organizations, extension programs, conservation and environmental organizations, and more.
New Student Orientation
All new students joining RICA participate in a weeklong orientation program to introduce them to life on campus. During orientation, incoming students learn about our campus, our approach to education, and the guiding principles of conservation agriculture, laying the foundations for a successful academic career and fulfilling student life.