Welcome to Masters of Agricultural Extension Education
The Department of Agricultural and Extension Education encompasses the study of behavioral and applied sciences, and leadership and management principles as they apply to the broad-based fields of agriculture. Among the major purposes of agricultural, extension, and technology education is the application of knowledge, skills, and attitudes (dispositions) learned (in several different disciplines) to education, extension, and agricultural and technological problems. The principles of teaching and learning as lifelong processes are utilized to educate for roles beyond those of agriculturist and/or educator. The dissemination and application of the knowledge base by a variety of clientele is given specific attention.
The programs of the department go beyond normal knowledge, skill, and attitude development in agricultural, extension, and technology education by developing understanding of: 1) the significance of agriculture and technology in a global society through the application of scientific and business principles and problem-solving strategies; and 2) the interdependence and close relationships between agricultural industries and other significant businesses interwoven with the social and economic structure of the community, state, nation and world. The programs place emphasis on food and fiber systems; family systems; environmental issues; economic development issues; technological systems; and the development of the individual, communities, organizations, and organizational networks.
The study of agricultural, extension, technology education, and community development focuses on the needs of both individuals and groups. Curricula that develop individually satisfying and socially responsible knowledge, skills, and attitudes are offered, utilizing proven formal, non-formal, informal, and self-directed instructional methods including experiential learning, problem solving, and cooperative learning.
Degree Requirements
Plan Options: Students pursuing a Master’s in AXED may elect either Plan A or Plan B. Plan a (Thesis Option): Under Plan A, the student is required to complete 30 credit hours, including coursework and a thesis. Not more than six and no fewer than four thesis credits may be counted toward the requirements for a master's degree. The thesis is to be developed for a problem selected by the student with the approval of the faculty advisor and graduate committee. Students desiring to complete a thesis must pass Research Methods (AXED 556 or equivalent) with a grade of “B” or higher and find a faculty member willing to advise the research and thesis writing. Students must also comply with university requirements for human subjects in research.
The thesis itself and an oral master's examination (which may not be limited to a defense of the thesis) must be approved by members of the student’s graduate committee prior to graduation. Students thinking about undertaking research and writing a thesis should begin early in their program to develop potential projects. All these must be prepared in the format specified in Guidelines for Preparing a
Thesis or Dissertation. Copies of this document may be obtained from the Graduate School, or online at http://www.gradschool.nmsu.edu/Guidelines. The most recent edition of the style manual for the
American Psychological Association (APA) will be followed in areas not covered by the Guidelines for Preparing a Thesis or Dissertation.
Plan B (Creative Component Option): Under Plan B the student is required to complete 32 hours of coursework. A thesis is not required under this plan, but students are expected to complete 3-4 credits of creative component (AXED 598) developing a project related to an area of professional interest. Creative components must be approved by the student's faculty advisor and graduate committee following the guidelines outlined for AXED 598 (see Appendix E).