Jacob Dorland began the University of Florida’s Master of Agribusiness (MAB) program in 2023 to continue his education after accepting a job position at the College of Central Florida. The MAB program includes a multiple-semester spanning capstone project in which students directly translate knowledge and skills learned in class to a unique independent project.
For his capstone project, Dorland developed an introductory course in Precision Agriculture at the College of Central Florida (CF). This involved building the curriculum, syllabus, and Canvas webpage for the class, as well as demonstrating how each module should be taught in the hybrid class format.
“This project helped develop my project management and interpersonal business skills by having to work with both the college and outside sources to create a course suitable to the needs of the College of Central Florida,” Dorland said.
While this class is yet to be offered to students, Dorland is looking forward to its implementation as CF seeks to offer more learning opportunities in agricultural technology.
The fully online MAB program allowed Dorland to attain his master’s degree by August of 2024 while working full time. “This program is meant for those with a self-driven passion in the agricultural industry that are ready to pave their unique way in the industry. Gaining these skills in an online setting while being able to work in the industry creates a unique mindset that is beneficial to yourself and is recognized by employers.”
Dorland continues to use this passion in his current role as the Campus Manager of CF’s Vintage Farm Campus, which provides students with experiential hands-on agricultural education in a farm setting.
When asked if he had any advice for students starting out in the Master of Agribusiness program, Dorland had this to say:
“The best advice I can provide to students entering the program is that you must always keep the passion of your career in your learning experiences. Don’t be afraid to ask questions and critically analyze your learning with the faculty. This program is not easy, but if you keep the passion in your learning experiences you will graduate with a deeper appreciation for the things you have learned and the career you are going into.”
3
