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Agriculture Technology

Prepare for a hands-on career in agricultural production, precision farming, agribusiness, conservation and food processing. You will receive vital education for success as a 21st century farmer, who will need to be experts in plants and animals as well as computer literate, mechanically inclined, savvy in business, legally minded, and knowledgeable about world events. The associate degree or certificate are each designed for immediate employment in agriculture industries.

Associate in Applied Science

This associate degree prepares students for careers in manufacturing, focusing on safety, precision, and technical production skills.

Certificate

This certificate prepares students for employment or entrepreneurship in the agriculture-food industry, focusing on agribusiness, production, and sales.

Certificate

This certificate provides essential agricultural skills and industry credentials for careers in areas like equipment operation, grain transport, and pesticide application.

About the Program

Prepare for a hands-on career in agricultural production, precision farming, agribusiness, conservation and food processing. You will receive vital education for success as a 21st century farmer, who will need to be experts in plants and animals as well as computer literate, mechanically inclined, savvy in business, legally minded, and knowledgeable about world events.

Safety & Bio Security

This course prepares students from a variety of backgrounds to study and work safely in agricultural and ag business settings. Students will learn best practices for biological security and workplace safety standard in these industries. Farm safety will include proper use of power equipment and implements as well as livestock handling. This course contains lecture and field experience components.

Introduction to Food Systems

This course provides students with an overview of the diverse food systems industry. Through research, guest lectures, and field experiences students will engage a cross-section of agricultural, agri-business, governmental and food processing sectors. Emphasis will be made in identifying the unique but deeply inter-connected pieces that make up regional, national and international food systems.

Agricultural Policy and Practices

This course introduces students to applicable state and federal agricultural policy as well as Generally Accepted Agricultural Management Practices (GAAMP) for both livestock and crop production. Students will become familiar where to locate and how to interpret and apply agricultural policies and best practices.

Introduction to Precision Farming

Precision Agriculture is farming management based on information and technology. It is site specific farming based on data related to soil, crops, moisture, pests and other environmental factors. The business of growing crops has become more and more complicated over time. More recently, farmers have been striving to meet demands of increased production and to be conscious of environmental impacts. Precision Agriculture will provide a comprehensive overview of present and emerging technologies, techniques and practices used for implementing precision agriculture programs. This course includes both online classroom and field experience components.

Career Outlook

The demand for skilled agricultural technicians continues to grow as the industry evolves with technology and sustainable practices. With training in agribusiness, equipment operation, crop and livestock care, students are prepared for a wide range of careers. This associate degree or certificate can lead directly to employment or enhance personal agricultural operations. Additional education or certifications can open doors to specialized roles in management, sales, or environmental systems.

Maintains and repairs modern farm machinery, including tractors, planters, and automated systems.

Supports planting, fertilizing, and harvesting operations using current agricultural methods and technologies.

Markets and sells equipment, feed, seed, or services to farms and agribusiness clients.

Cares for animals, monitors health, and supports breeding and feeding programs in farm or lab settings.

Pay

Understanding potential earnings is an important part of exploring career options.

Median Pay $44,000/yr
Pay: Low End $30,000
Pay: High End $65,000

Salary estimates are based on data from America’s Career InfoNet and the Occupational Outlook Handbook. Actual earnings vary by location, industry demand, business size, education, and experience. Check local job listings for the most accurate salary information.