First Ag Degrees
historical marker
In State College, Centre County, Pennsylvania, a historical marker stands, erected by the Penn State Alumni Association. This marker recognizes the "First Ag Degrees" in the United States. Penn State holds the distinction of being the first U.S. university to award baccalaureate degrees in agriculture, which occurred in 1861. Just two years later, in 1863, the university also became the first to award graduate degrees in agriculture. The institution itself originated as The Farmers' High School in 1855. This foundational work in formalizing higher education for agriculture was crucial. It helped establish agricultural sciences as an accepted and vital part of higher education. This site in State College marks a significant historical development in American agricultural education.