How to become a certified crop advisor

Is becoming a certified crop advisor right for me?

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Overview
What do certified crop advisors do?
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How to become a Certified Crop Advisor

Becoming a certified crop advisor involves a combination of education, experience, and successfully passing the CCA examination. Here is a guide to becoming a CCA:

  • Educational Background: Obtain a Bachelor's Degree in Agronomy, Soil Science, Crop Production, or a related field. While a degree is not mandatory, having a relevant educational background is beneficial.
  • Gain Relevant Experience: Acquire practical experience in agronomy or crop advising. This can be achieved through internships, work on farms, or employment in roles related to crop management.
  • Review CCA Exam Content: Familiarize yourself with the content areas covered in the CCA examination. The exam assesses knowledge in areas such as nutrient management, soil and water management, pest management, and crop management.
  • Consider Additional Education: While not mandatory, pursuing advanced education, such as a Master's Degree in Agronomy, can enhance your knowledge and qualifications.
  • Register for the CCA Exam: Visit the American Society of Agronomy (ASA) website, which administers the CCA program, to register for the exam. Pay attention to exam dates, deadlines, and locations. Utilize study materials provided by ASA and other reputable sources to prepare for the CCA examination. Consider attending review courses, workshops, or study groups to enhance your preparation.
  • Take the CCA Exam: Attend the scheduled CCA examination and complete the test, which consists of multiple-choice questions. The exam is designed to assess your knowledge in various aspects of agronomy. Achieve a passing score on the CCA examination. The passing score may vary, so check the specific requirements set by the American Society of Agronomy.
  • Submit Documentation: Once you pass the exam, submit documentation of your education and work experience to the American Society of Agronomy for verification. This may include transcripts and letters of recommendation. Upon successful verification of your education and experience, you will be awarded the Certified Crop Advisor designation by the American Society of Agronomy.
  • Maintain Certification: To maintain your CCA certification, you are required to participate in continuing education and professional development activities. This ensures that you stay current with advancements in agronomy and related fields.

Certifications

  • There is one primary certification for professionals who offer agronomic advice to farmers: the Certified Crop Advisor (CCA) designation, awarded by the American Society of Agronomy (ASA). This certification is not just a one-time achievement—it reflects an ongoing commitment to staying up to date with current practices in crop production, soil health, and sustainable farming. While the CCA is the main credential, certified crop advisors can also pursue specialty certifications to deepen their knowledge in specific areas.
  • American Society of Agronomy (ASA): The ASA oversees the Certified Crop Advisor program, which is widely recognized in the agricultural industry. CCAs must follow a strict code of ethics and demonstrate continuing professional growth to remain in good standing.
  • Continuing Education Units (CEUs): To maintain certification, CCAs are required to complete 40 CEUs every two years. These units can be earned through workshops, conferences, online courses, and other educational activities related to nutrient management, pest control, crop planning, and environmental stewardship.
  • Specialty Certifications: Certified crop advisors may also choose to earn specialty credentials in focused areas such as 4R Nutrient Management, Precision Agriculture, and Resistance Management. These additional certifications help demonstrate advanced expertise and support more tailored, science-based recommendations for farmers.
  • State or Regional Requirements: While the CCA program is nationally recognized, it is managed by regional boards to ensure local relevance. In some cases, CCAs may also need to meet separate state-level requirements—such as pesticide applicator licensing—depending on the services they provide and the regulations in their area.