Course Description
Agriculture classes prepare students for a variety of careers, including ranching, farming, agriculture science or horticulture management. Agriculture courses are found in associate's, bachelor's and graduate degree programs, and students learn everything from horticulture basics to how to run a farming business. Read on to get details on what students typically learn in common agriculture classes.
Though many agricultural workers who work directly on a farm or ranch learn their skills through on-the-job training, undergraduate agriculture programs can prepare students for more advanced positions, such as agricultural and food science technician. These programs can include internships that provide hands-on training and often have a high concentration of courses that focus on the biological sciences. Careers in management or as agricultural scientists require more specialized training that is usually found in graduate-level programs. These programs often include lab work and focus on original research. Here is an outline of common concepts taught in agriculture courses:
Agribusiness
Agricultural Science
Sustainable Agriculture
Agriculture Education
Agricultural Resource Management
List of Courses
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Natural Resources
A natural resources course covers topics pertaining to forestry, soils and wildlife. Students learn about power sources, such as electric motors and combustion engines, as well as government regulations and programs that relate to natural resource conservation. The effects that current power sources have on the agriculture industry and what it means for the future of natural resources and power are also addressed.
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Basic Horticulture
Horticulture is a science that studies plants, gardening and natural growth. This course helps students develop skills in controlling plant growth and development. Specific topics of study may include plant production, pruning, regulations of plant growth and storage processes. Horticulture courses may also cover marketing concepts in horticulture
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Animal Science
Depending on the focus of the agriculture program, animal science classes may focus on all animals or be specific to horses, cows, and other farm animals. Students learn about animal development from a biological standpoint. Specific topics in animal products, animal feeding and animal breeding are also covered. During an animal science course, students learn the history of the animal industry, animal disease and current trends in animal rearing as well.
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Soils and Pesticides
Agriculture students learn about soils and pesticides to understand the chemical make-up and effect that these elements have on crop growth. A soils and pesticides course covers conservation of water and soil, fertilizer use and soil formation. It is a course that is delivered in lecture and lab format so that students may apply their skills to live scenarios. This course that may also cover soil types specific to the state in which the agriculture program is taught.
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Food Systems
Whether providing crop or animal food, farmers and others in the agriculture business need a strong understanding of the U.S. food system and processes. Students in this course study the U.S. food system as it relates to the current economy, health factors and regulatory laws. Specific topics of study may include political systems, health, environment, food retailing and international food regulations.