Ranch and Agrotourism Management

Program Information

On-Campus

Agricultural enterprises are evolving. As the industry moves from traditional production to diversified revenue streams, the need for holistic management is greater than ever. The Casper College ranch and agrotourism management program is designed to bridge the gap between ranching heritage and modern hospitality. Whether you are a current ranch supervisor looking to modernize your operation or an aspiring outdoor guide, our program provides the technical and managerial skills needed to thrive.

Start Your Planning

Program Options and Timelines

Degrees and Certificates

We offer a specialized, one-year certificate designed for rapid career advancement and immediate application in the field.

Certificate in Ranch and Agrotourism Management

Cost and Financial Aid

Casper College is a national leader in “affordable excellence,” consistently ranking as one of the best values for higher education in Wyoming. We are committed to helping you understand the investment you are making in your future by providing transparent cost information and personalized support. While individual costs vary based on residency and course load, many students use a combination of federal grants, the Hathaway Scholarship, and other funding sources to help manage their educational expenses.

We encourage you to use our net price calculator and contact our financial aid office for a customized estimate of your costs and aid eligibility.

Career Paths

The intersection of agriculture and tourism offers a wide variety of career opportunities for those with a diverse skill set.

Ranch Manager or Supervisor
Guest Ranch/Dude Ranch Manager
Outdoor Guide Service Owner
Hunting and Fishing Lodge Coordinator
Agritourism Event Planner
Range Management Specialist
Agriculture Marketing Consultant

Accreditation

Casper College is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. Our agriculture and hospitality courses are designed to meet industry standards, ensuring your certificate carries the professional validation needed to lead a high-stakes enterprise.

Transfer Opportunities

The Ranch and Agrotourism Management certificate is built to be “stackable.” Every credit earned in this program can be applied toward an Associate of Science (A.S.) in Agriculture or an Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.) in Hospitality and Tourism Management. Through our 2+2 transfer agreements and the University Partnerships Program, you can even apply these credits toward a bachelor’s degree from the University of Wyoming without leaving Casper. Learn more at Transfer Agreements.

Program Resources

Special Admission Requirements

You must apply to this program separate and in addition to the Casper College application. Space is limited. Applicants will be required to interview with a program selection committee.

Your program application is complete only when all of the following items are received by the program director:

This online application for program admission
Three (3) recommendation letters
One-page autobiography written by you, the applicant
Official academic transcripts from all the high schools, colleges and universities you have attended
Recent photo of yourself (optional)

You can submit those required documents via email or postal mail. Additional application materials can be sent to: Health Hornecker, Casper College, 125 College Drive, Casper, WY 82601 OR ranching@caspercollege.edu.

Questions about this program application? Email ranching@caspercollege.edu; or contact Heath Hornecker, Program Chair, at 307-268-2525 or Jerry Hawkes, Dean, at 307-268-2593.

FAQ

How do I apply for this program?

Applying is easy and free! You can start your journey by filling out our online application using the button at the top of this page. There is no application fee for Casper College.

How do I get started if I have more questions?

The best first step is to “Request Information” using the button at the top of this page or schedule a campus visit. We’d love to show you our state-of-the-art facilities and introduce you to our friendly faculty.

Is financial aid available for this program?

Yes. Most credit-bearing programs are eligible for federal financial aid, grants, and our many institutional scholarships. More information about financial aid.

Can I transfer these credits to a four-year university?

Casper College is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and certain programs may also offer specialty accreditation. Casper College has strong transfer agreements with the University of Wyoming and many other regional and national universities. More information about transferring to or from Casper College.

What if I’m not a "traditional" student?

You’ll fit right in. We serve a diverse community of learners of all ages, including students balancing work and family. We offer flexible scheduling and support services designed to help everyone succeed, no matter where they are in their life journey.

What is the learning environment like?

We pride ourselves on a 14:1 student-to-faculty ratio and an average class size of about 12 students. This allows for the individualized service and real-world connections that define the Casper College experience.

Are there ways to get involved outside of my classes?

Absolutely! Casper College has many student clubs and organizations. Whether you want to join the Student Senate, the Esports Club, or even the T-Bird Gaming Club, there is a community here for you. More information about student clubs and activities<.

Is on-campus housing available?

Yes, we have both a residence hall and apartment options. Apartments are generally recommended for our sophomores and nontraditional students. You can even view our housing and meal rates right on the website to help with your planning. More housing information. More information about dining options.

Where exactly is the campus located?

Our beautiful campus is situated right between Casper Mountain and the North Platte River, offering a great mix of academic life and outdoor adventure. More information and campus map.

Program Student Learning Outcomes

Students will be able to demonstrate an understanding of agriculture terminology, concepts and practices
Students will be able to apply business management skills to support agriculture production entities
Students will apply ethical and human handling guidelines while working with large domestic livestock species
Students will be able to create livestock nutrition and feeding systems for large animal domestic livestock species
Students will be able to develop marketing strategies for hospitality and agrotourism opportunities
Students will create business management practices through their immersion in a ranch, farm or agrotourism entity