Graduate Degrees
Our graduate students and faculty are pushing the frontiers of science in contexts around the world. They are using sophisticated research and statistical methodologies such as machine learning and coarsened exact matching to broaden our understanding of technology innovation and the adoption and diffusion process of technology.
They study consumer decision-making and how scientists can communicate credibility and good will about food products and practices to mitigate climate change. Our students and faculty also study workforce education. Training trade professionals and entry-level technicians is vital to the contribution of our society and future workforce.
Our graduate students and faculty members study what makes leaders effective and the leader and leadership competency and capacity development of individuals in a variety of contexts.
While all of our degrees have a common thread and provide competency in areas of education, leadership, and communications, students in all of our programs can tailor their program within any of the following areas:
- Agricultural communications
- E-learning and instructional design
- Extension education and organizational development
- International agricultural development
- Organizational and community leadership
- Teacher education
- Youth development
ALEC AI Statement
Graduate students are expected to demonstrate independent intellectual contribution at all stages of their scholarly process. The use of artificial intelligence (AI) tools is permitted only for limited support purposes, such as language editing, formatting, or technical assistance (e.g., writing R codes). AI tools may not be used to generate scholarly content, including literature synthesis, research design, data analysis, interpretation of results, or the development of original arguments. Students remain fully responsible for the accuracy, integrity, and originality of their works (coursework and research) and must disclose any use of AI tools. Failure to disclose or use of AI use in ways that replace the student’s own intellectual works will be treated as a violation of academic integrity. Please refer to Texas A&M University’s Responsible Conduct of Research and Research Compliance websites for definitions, rules, and other information.
Pursue a Master’s Degree
M.S. in Agricultural Leadership, Education and Communications – Thesis
This research-based degree provides theoretical foundations in agricultural education, leadership and communications, combined with a strong understanding of innovative research methods.
M.S. in Agricultural Leadership, Education and Communications – Non-Thesis
This applied degree is ideal for those currently in or pursuing careers in formal or informal leadership, education or communications.
M.Ag. in Agricultural Development – Online Education — Non-Thesis
This online-only, applied degree prepares students for leadership roles in education, cooperative extension service, instructional design, and many other professional careers in agriculture and life sciences.
M.S. in Applied Youth Development — Online Education
The Master of Applied Youth Development, MAYD, program is designed for active and progressive youth development professionals.
Pursue a Doctoral Degree
Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Agricultural Leadership, Education and Communications
This specialized degree provides a wide range of educational and research experiences designed specifically to train scholars equipped to address complex issues relating to the food, agriculture, natural resources and human sciences.
Graduate Admissions Deadlines
Admission deadlines for our campus degree programs take place three times in an academic year with deadlines occurring in the Fall as September 1; Spring as February 1; and Summer as June 1. The application review for our online programs take place each month with deadlines as the first of each month (i.e. September 1, October 1, November 1, December 1, February 1, etc.). In order to apply to one of our graduate degree programs, an application and all admission materials must be submitted to the Texas A&M University Graduate Application System completing the appropriate application for the desired term. Once all materials have been received to complete an admission file, the application will be considered for review. If interested in seeking financial assistance when applying to a campus degree program, applicants are highly encouraged to submit application materials in the fall semester (i.e. September 1).
Graduate Student Recruitment Informational Sessions
The Department will host Prospective Student Recruitment Informational Sessions in the Fall semesters. Prospective applicants will have the opportunity to visit with ALEC faculty and current students and obtain details and expectations about our degree programs.
We are excited to host an informational session in Fall 2026. Registration for this session will be by invitation only.
Information for New Graduate Students
Graduate Student Funding Opportunities
We understand that graduate education is an investment and one we don’t take lightly. Our department and Texas A&M University offer competitive assistantships and fellowships to help alleviate the cost of higher education and make attending graduate school more affordable. Check with the Graduate and Professional School for details on opportunities available across the university.
Graduate Fellowships and Assistantships
The department offers graduate fellowships and teaching and research assistantships. These are are available on a competitive basis to qualified individuals. Students interested in applying for an assistantship must submit a separate application from their graduate admissions application.
Information for Current Graduate Students
Join ALEC’s Graduate Student Organization!
ALEC is re-inventing the graduate student organization—and we want you to be part of it!
We are inviting all current graduate students in ALEC to get involved, connect with fellow graduate students, and help shape the future of the organization. This is an opportunity to build community, develop leadership skills, share ideas, and create meaningful experiences during your graduate studies.
Whether you are looking to get more involved in the department, develop new skills, expand your professional network, or simply connect with other graduate students, there is a place for you in our student organization.
As we re-imagine what our graduate student organization can be, your voice and ideas matter. We want our members to help determine activities, events, professional development opportunities, and plan initiatives for expanding research perspectives through workshops and collaborative discussions.
Come be a part of the next chapter of ALEC’s graduate student organization!
Connect with the ALEC Graduate Student Organization
Our Graduate & Professional Student Government at Texas A&M University promotes academic, professional, and social networking among students and faculty. All graduate students are encouraged to participate in the many professional, service, and social events held throughout the year. Students serve on committees working to impact the department and university. The association also awards competitive travel scholarships and grants to students participating at professional meetings and conferences.
Graduate Student Resources
Through exceptional service and commitment to the highest standards, the Graduate and Professional School advocates for graduate education at Texas A&M and throughout Texas. This office supports our students and the graduate degrees offered through our department.
Contact Us
Gary Wingenbach
Professor and Associate Department Head for Graduate Programs
Have questions?
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