A Comparison Of Community College Transfer Agriculture Students, 1985 And 1992

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to profile and compare transfer agriculture students enrolled in Mississippi public community colleges during the Spring 1985 and 1992 semesters. Data were examined to identify demographic trends developing in the study population. Several trends were identified. Enrollment in transfer agriculture programs increased by 102% (from 110 to 222) between 1985 and 1992. By comparison, agriculture enrollment at Mississippi State University remained stable during the same seven year period. The most obvious trend identified was the decreased percentage of respondents with farm backgrounds and other agricultural experiences. When compared to the 1985 baseline group, the 1992 respondents were less likely to have: (a) been raised on a farm; (b) had parents who were raised on a farm; (c) had parents who owned a farm; (d) enrolled in high school agriculture classes; or, (e) had agricultural work experiences. The identified trends are discussed in relation to the changing structure of Mississippi's rural population base. Changes occurring in the transfer student population are congruent with these larger demographic trends. Major recommendations include: (a) development of more structured articulation agreements between community colleges and university agriculture programs; and, (b) an increased emphasis on internships and practicums for students lacking agricultural experiences.