Current status of academic programs in extension education and 4-H youth development at land-grant universities in the United States

Land-grant universities provide practical and relevant academic programs to prepare extension education and 4-H professionals for success in the cooperative extension system. However, a review of literature revealed a gap between academic programs related to extension education and 4-H youth development and real life application. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to determine the current status of academic programs at land-grant universities. One of its objectives was to determine the need for doctorate degrees by extension education and 4-H professionals. Two survey instruments were used to collect data from associate deans/directors of extension and county extension professionals in order to achieve the purpose and objectives of the study. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics. The results of this study showed a need to greatly increase the number of courses, minors, and degrees related to extension education and 4-H youth development.