Edwin Miller
Oklahoma State University

Agricultural and natural resources education in the United States, especially within the traditional Land Grant Universities, is in a constant state of revision and reform to meet the needs of the private and public sectors and our graduates. Our students and their parents increasingly inquire about the applicability and relevance of our educational programs and more specifically they ask: will our graduates will be qualified to compete for and succeed in professional positions.
Several factors combine to keep academic programs relevant, especially in the areas biotechnology, agricultural production/precision agriculture, food processing and safety, soil and water conservation, environmental science, and rural development/risk management. Key is the relationship between teaching, research and outreach/extension; all of which are integrated within the agricultural higher education educational system.
Other factors that serve to energize educational programs include annual curricular review and revision, faculty joint appointments, undergraduate research, capstone experiences and faculty advising. Each of these plays a role in maintaining a sharp focus on current issues and bringing research results and industry needs into the classroom.
Globalization of our students remains a challenge. Other countries lead in the internationalization of students and academic programs and in this area we are seeking opportunities for cooperation.