Business

Tennessee Tech Launches Online Agribusiness Degree

Dr. Darron Smith says the new program gives students the flexibility to earn a degree while continuing to work on the farm.

July 16, 2026 04:00 PM • 
Neal Burnette-Irwin

COOKEVILLE, Tenn. (RFD News) — Tennessee Tech University is launching a fully online agribusiness degree to give students on family farms and in rural communities greater flexibility to earn a college education.

Dean of the College of Agriculture Dr. Darron Smith joined us on Thursday’s Market Day Report to discuss the new program.

In his conversation with RFD News, Smith said the online option offers the same agribusiness degree as the university’s traditional classroom program, allowing students to continue working on the farm while completing coursework. He added that graduates are prepared for careers in areas such as farm management, equipment sales and commodity trading.

Smith also discussed Tennessee Tech’s longstanding partnership with Tennessee FFA and the university’s commitment to preparing the next generation of agricultural leaders.

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Neal Burnette-Irwin
Neal Burnette-Irwin
Knoxville native Neal Burnette-Irwin is a graduate from MTSU where he majored in Journalism and Entertainment Studies. He works as a digital content producer with RFD News and is represented by multiple talent agencies in Nashville and Chicago.


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