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Agriculture and Natural Resources

Agriculture and Natural Resources Program Area

Agriculture has deep roots at MHS, dating back to the school’s founding. It was woven into the fabric of the school’s mission, as outlined in the Deed of Trust. Since then, the CTE program area has evolved to reflect modern practices, address current challenges, and incorporate science-based learning—ensuring students are ready for careers in today’s agricultural fields.

Review the Program Area (PDF)

Video Poster

Modern-Day Agricultural Education at MHS

MHS Agriculture and Natural Resources classes follow the CASE (Curriculum for Agricultural Science Education) framework—a rigorous, science-based approach aligned with the school’s focus on STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts, and math). Students gain hands-on experience in aeroponics, hydroponics, crop and orchard management, floriculture, and animal care. This curriculum prepares students for agri-business careers—an industry growing by more than 2.5 percent.*

MHS students in the livestock barn with lambs

MHS culinary students plating a dessert

CTE Viewbook

Read and learn details about the MHS CTE program.

Download the Viewbook (PDF)

MHS agriculture student

“I’ve learned how to maintain animal health, and I’m looking at going into the veterinary science field. Being able to have that experience before I exit high school and go into college is really beneficial.”

—Regina Fox, MHS Student

Setting Students Up for Success

MHS students grow their core skills outside the high school classroom by joining student organizations and enrolling in college courses, getting a head start in their career.

Core Skills

  • Data Analysis
  • Complex Problem Solving
  • Critical Thinking
  • Deductive Reasoning
  • Attention to Detail

Student Organization

  • Future Farmers of America (FFA)

College Partnership

  • Delaware Valley University

Future Career Options

With a High School Diploma:

  • Agricultural Worker
  • Forest and Conservation
  • Grounds Maintenance/Landscaping

With a 2-Year Degree:

  • Agricultural Technician
  • Veterinary Technician
  • Precision Agriculture Technician
  • Turfgrass/Golf Course Management Technician

With a 4-Year Degree:

  • Agricultural Scientist/Agronomist
  • Environmental Scientist
  • Wildlife Biologist
  • Agribusiness

Authentic Work Experience

Prior to graduation, students must complete an Authentic Work Experience (AWE) that is directly connected to their CTE coursework. This can include part-time employment, internships, pre-apprenticeships, or cooperative education (co-op) opportunities.

Internships

  • MHS Agricultural and Environmental Education (AEE) Program
  • PSH Comparative Medicine and College of Medicine
  • Hershey Gardens
  • ZooAmerica
  • Hershey Nursery
  • United States Department of Agriculture- Natural Resources Conservation Service (USDA-NRCS)
  • Local Veterinary Hospitals

Co-operative Education

  • MHS AEE Program
  • Hershey Gardens
  • ZooAmerica
  • USDA-NRCS
  • Local Veterinary Hospitals

Learn more about Milton Hershey School’s Career and Technical Education program and its 10 program areas.

View All Program Areas

*Employment Opportunities for College Graduates in Food, Agriculture, Renewable Natural Resources, and the Environment, United States, 2020-2025 by USDA’s National Institute of Food and Agriculture and Purdue University

Milton Hershey School does not discriminate in admissions or other programs and services on the basis of race, color, national or ethnic origin, ancestry, sex, religious creed or disability. Read important MHS policies on equal opportunity and diversity, equal employment opportunity, and more.

© 2025 Milton Hershey School
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