Agriculture & Conservation
Why Study Agriculture & Conservation at TFC?
The Sustainable Community Development major with Agriculture & Conservation concentration equips students to understand and steward God’s creation through a balanced blend of environmental science, sustainable agriculture, and biblical principles of creation care. Building on the foundation of the Sustainable Community Development major, this concentration allows students to explore environmental and soil sciences, forest ecology, and aquatic and wetland biology while taking additional coursework in biology and the natural sciences.
Students gain practical, hands-on experience at the Lawson Center for Sustainable Community Development, TFC’s on-campus farm. Here they learn essential skills such as crop production, soil and land management, and ecological restoration, applying classroom knowledge within a working agricultural environment. This immersive approach helps students develop both the physical capabilities needed to care for the land and a theological understanding that views creation as something entrusted to God’s people.
For those interested in agriculture, conservation, or mission-centered development, this concentration provides a meaningful pathway to serve communities locally and globally. Students learn to collaborate with community leaders, practice sustainable lifestyles, and design development projects that support long-term well-being—especially among underserved or unreached populations. As part of the broader Sustainable Community Development major, Agriculture & Conservation prepares graduates to integrate faith, environmental stewardship, and community transformation in ways that promote lasting human and ecological flourishing.
This concentration allows students to dive deeper into environmental and soil sciences, forest ecology, and aquatic and wetland biology. Students gain not only physical skills to care for the environment, but a biblical understanding of creation care. In this concentration, students are able to take 12 additional hours in Science and Biology.
Sustainable Community Development
“Everything we do at The Lawson Center is to disciple our students and teach them discipleship principles that they can carry out into the world so that they can be equipped to disciple others and ultimately share the love of Jesus with them.”
Scott Davis
The Lawson Center Farm Manager
Agriculture & Conservation Courses
The Sustainable Community Development major with Agriculture & Conservation concentration is a 126 hour program that includes 71 hours of general education courses (including 30 hours of Bible & Theology), 15 hours of open electives, and 41 hours in Sustainable Community Development-specific courses, with 15 of those dedicated to Agriculture & Conservation.
Featured Courses:
- Soil science
- Forest Ecology
- Aquatic and Wetland Biology
- Agriculture & Conservation
Testimonial
What can you do with an Agriculture & Conservation degree?
When you pursue the Agriculture & Conservation concentration within the Sustainable Community Development major, you open the door to a wide range of careers focused on environmental stewardship, sustainable agriculture, and community transformation. Graduates are equipped for roles such as:
Farm or Agricultural Manager
Students with this concentration are well-prepared for agricultural leadership roles that oversee crop production, soil and land management, livestock operations, budgeting, and the daily workflow of a farm or sustainable agricultural enterprise. Hands-on experience at the Lawson Center strengthens readiness for these positions.
Environmental Conservation Specialist
Graduates can serve in roles dedicated to caring for natural resources. These positions may involve habitat restoration, forest and soil conservation, water quality monitoring, or environmental education—often working with nonprofits, ministries, or government agencies committed to creation care.
International Missionary (Agricultural Focus)
This concentration equips students to meet tangible needs in developing communities through sustainable farming, soil restoration, and environmental health. Many graduates pursue mission work where agriculture becomes a platform for sharing the gospel and empowering local leaders.
Community Development Practitioner
This concentration equips students to meet tangible needs in developing communities through sustainable farming, soil restoration, and environmental health. Many graduates pursue mission work where agriculture becomes a platform for sharing the gospel and empowering local leaders.
Church or Ministry Roles
Because the degree integrates biblical and scientific training, graduates are also strong candidates for church-based positions related to outreach, community engagement, or creation care ministries.