ABSTRACTThere is a need for continuing education in agronomy. Therefore, during the spring of 1986, the Agronomy Department, in cooperation with the Office of Continuing Education and Public Service at the University of Illinois, Urbana‐Champaign received permission from the Illinois Board of Higher Education (IBHE) to offer an M.S. degree program in agronomy extramurally at three locations. Following a successful start, the IBHE gave the Department of Agronomy, University of Illinois permission to offer this program on a statewide basis. Courses are offered at three to four locations at any one time. Most locations center around community college districts. Classes are taught in community college, area extension, and continuing education facilities. Admission standards to the program are the same basis as those on‐campus. Students have 5 yr to complete their degree. Most students select a nonthesis option, but a few pursue a thesis program. Currently over 28 students are enrolled in the program.