A Case Study of Talent Cultivation Through Industry–Education Integration in an Agricultural University

Industry–education integration has become increasingly important for agricultural universities to reduce the gap between talent cultivation and rapidly evolving industrial needs. This study examines the collaborative mechanisms behind successful industry–education integration programs at Qingdao Agricultural University (QAU) in China. Using grounded theory, the research draws on in-depth interviews and document analysis of eight representative programs at QAU. Through open, axial, and selective coding, we developed a multi-layered and practice-oriented theoretical model, showing how QAU, industries, government agencies, and social organizations collaborate to support talent cultivation, knowledge production, and innovation. The study proposed a theoretical model that aligns with the Quadruple Helix Innovation Ecosystem and Mode 3 knowledge-production framework, illustrating how multi-stakeholder collaboration and adaptive knowledge co-production can drive sustained educational reform. The findings also highlight several practical drivers of success at QAU, including multi-stakeholder governance structures, competency-oriented curriculum reform, dual-track faculty development, project-based learning platforms, and a collaborative institutional culture. Overall, the study provides guidance for applied agricultural universities to enhance industry–education integration, strengthen practical talent training, and improve the responsiveness of agricultural higher education to evolving industrial and societal demands.