Knowledge as a „universal substitute” has become a fundamental resource in the modern economy. Knowledge is also important in the development of agriculture, food economy and rural areas. Higher education is the main creator of knowledge. In particular significant role fulfill life sciences universities. The purpose of this article is to present the changes that have taken place in public universities that specialize in personnel training and researches in the field of agriculture, food economy and rural areas in Poland. As an empirical illustration will be used Warsaw University of Life Sciences.