Department of Agriculture
Chairperson: Danielle Andrews-Brown (Interim)
Location: 103 Owens Hall
Contact Information: (804) 524-1238 | dabrown@vsu.edu
Department Overview
The Department of Agriculture offers programs leading to the Bachelor of Science degree in Agriculture with the following areas of focus: Agricultural Business and Economics, Agricultural Education (Teacher Education Endorsement/Licensure and Non-Licensure), Animal Science, Pre-Veterinary Medicine, Environmental Science, and Plant and Soil Sciences. We also offer a minor in Agribusiness Management and an International Agriculture certificate.
Mission Statement
In accordance with the Virginia State University’s mission, the Department of Agriculture is committed to servicing the Commonwealth of Virginia, the nation and the global community by generating and disseminating knowledge about food, agriculture and environmental sciences, and ensuring that each student reaches their full potential and excels in society. The Department is also committed to the establishment and maintenance of an appropriate environment for the development and dissemination of knowledge through quality instruction, research, experiential learning, and community service.
Degree Highlight Information
The Department of Agriculture is proud to support student success through a variety of scholarships, scholars’ programs, and student organizations. Scholarship opportunities include university-wide awards such as the Presidential and Provost Scholarships, as well as agriculture-specific funding like the Food and AgriScience Scholarship, Agriculture Alumni Scholarship, J.R. Thomas Camp Scholarship, Chesterfield Farm Bureau Scholarship, Dinwiddie Farm Bureau Scholarship, and the USDA 1890 National Scholarship.
In addition, students may benefit from competitive scholars’ programs such as the USDA 1890 Scholars Program and the USDA NRCS Pathways Program, which provide both financial assistance and career development support. To enhance the student experience beyond the classroom, the department also offers active engagement in student-led organizations, including the VSU Chapter of Minorities in Agriculture, Natural Resources and Related Sciences (MANRRS), the Pre-Vet Club, the Horticulture Club, Men of Agriculture, and Ladies in Agriculture. These groups foster leadership, professional networking, and a strong sense of community within the agricultural sciences.
Department Goals
The Department of Agriculture aims to:
- Provide students with hands-on educational experiences and knowledge in the different and most recent developments in food, agriculture and environmental sciences.
- Provide students with quality preparation for employment in various fields of food, agriculture and environmental science related occupations in the changing global market.
- Provide advice, guidance and quality preparation for students to pursue advanced training in any nationally reputable professional or academic program.
- Empower students to be leaders and change makers who are capable of contributing meaningfully to the development of their communities.
- Provide students with training in International Agricultural Development and Engagement.
Program Listings
Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Agriculture
Agricultural Business and Economics Concentration
Focuses on the analysis and problem-solving skills required for the production, distribution, and consumption of agricultural goods, as well as the management of services and natural resources. Key areas of emphasis within the curriculum include public policy, financial management, farm management, non-farming agribusiness management, and marketing. The program prepares students for advanced studies in agribusiness and agricultural economics, entrepreneurial opportunities in farm businesses, and employment in the private sector, including the banking industry. Additionally, it offers pathways for careers in government agencies such as the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
Agricultural Education Concentration (Teacher Education Endorsement/Licensure)
Prepares individuals to serve effectively as secondary school teachers of agriculture, extension agents, and in positions with agriculturally related agencies and industries. Students preparing to teach will meet criteria established by the Center for the Undergraduate Professional Education Programs in the College of Education.
Agricultural Education Concentration (Non-Licensure)
Equips individuals to pursue careers in agricultural leadership, communications, training and development, community outreach, and various roles within agriculturally related agencies and industries that do not require teacher licensure. The program emphasizes the development of knowledge and skills in agricultural sciences, educational program planning, leadership, and community engagement, equipping graduates to effectively educate, advocate, and lead in both formal and non-formal agricultural education settings.
Animal Science Concentration
Designed for students who plan to transition directly into the workforce or pursue advanced degrees, such as a Master’s or Ph.D., in Animal Science or related fields. This concentration provides a strong foundation in animal biology, nutrition, reproduction, genetics, and physiology. Graduates are well-prepared for careers in academia, research, government agencies, and the animal science industry, including livestock production, biotechnology, and agricultural policy.
Pre-Veterinary Medicine Concentration
Tailored for students intending to apply to veterinary school. It emphasizes coursework required for admission to Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) programs, including advanced studies in biology, chemistry, and animal health. This concentration also prepares students for careers in veterinary medicine, biomedical research, government regulatory services, and animal health industries.
Environmental Science Concentration
Offers a multidisciplinary exploration of the dynamic physical world in which humans coexist with other living organisms. The program emphasizes ecological principles, sustainability, and methods for studying and conserving biodiversity, natural resources, and environmental quality to support resilient human and natural systems.
Plant and Soil Sciences Concentration
Focuses on the science and management of agronomic crops for large-scale food and fiber production. Students study soil science in depth—from its physical and chemical properties to sustainable practices for soil and crop management. The program also covers production of crops for human and animal consumption and the cultivation of ornamental crops (such as trees, shrubs, and flowering plants) that support ecosystems and enhance quality of life.
Agribusiness Management Minor
Provides students from other majors with a complementary understanding of agribusiness fundamentals and decision-making tools.
International Agriculture Certificate
An 18-credit program preparing students for international roles in USDA-FAS and related agencies. Students gain knowledge in food production, safe food systems, ecosystem preservation, and global food security solutions.
Major(s)
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Agriculture, Bachelor of Science with a Concentration in Agriculture Business and Economics (B.S.)
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Agriculture, Bachelor of Science with a Concentration in Agriculture Business and Economics with an International Agriculture Certificate (B.S.)
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Agriculture, Bachelor of Science with a Concentration in Agriculture Education (B.S.)
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Agriculture, Bachelor of Science with a Concentration in Animal Science (B.S.)
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Agriculture, Bachelor of Science with a Concentration in Environmental Science (B.S.)
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Agriculture, Bachelor of Science with a Concentration in Plant and Soil Science (B.S.)
AGRICULTURE
Course Descriptions
NOTE: All core courses for majors: Students majoring in all concentrations in Agriculture are required to earn a final grade of C or higher in all courses offered in the Department (AGEC, AGRI, AGME, ANSC, HORT, PLSC and SOSC) for courses to count towards their major curriculum requirements for graduation.
AGRI 100 GENERAL EARTH SCIENCE - 3 semester hours
A survey course in earth science designed for non-science majors.
AGRI 100 GENERAL EARTH SCIENCE LABORATORY - 1 semester hour
Corequisite: AGRI 100
AGRI 140 INTRODUCTION TO SUSTAINABLE AGRICULTURE AND SOCIETY - 3 semester hours
Sustainable agriculture integrates three main goals--environmental health, economic profitability, and social and economic equity. A variety of philosophies, policies and practices have contributed to these goals. Sustainability rests on the principle that we must meet the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. Therefore, this course emphasizes the importance of stewardship of both natural and human resources with specific focus on agriculture and society in general.
AGRI 200 FOUNDATIONS IN INTERNATIONAL AGRICULTURE – 3 semester hours
The course aims to provide instruction in assisted preparation for the Foreign Service Exam, and instruction on how to be successful during the assessment phase of the FAS/APIHS-IS workforce process. The course will offer fundamentals on how to become an International Agriculture Diplomat, and information on the emerging Global Biosecurity and Food Security issues that influence safety of the food supply in the United States. Course offered online during Summer Session Only
AGRI 295 CONTEMPORARY GLOBAL STUDIES (AND GLOBAL SEMINAR PROGRAM) 3 semester hours
This course is designed to introduce global issues on food security and its relationship to sustainable development. It is a multidisciplinary course to explore interrelationships between food, population, the environment, and socio-economic development through a case study/discussion approach. It also examines the psychological implications of food security and sustainable development issues and their psychological impact.
AGRI 341 RESEARCH METHODS IN AGRICULTURE - 3 semester hours
This course aims to train students in fundamental principles and practices related to research in agricultural sciences; literature search; preparation and review of scientific publications; preparation and presentations of scientific seminars; and preparation of resume/thesis/dissertation. Topics related to Ethics in Research and Reporting would also be discussed.
Prerequisites: Completion of core agriculture courses, and STAT 210
AGRI 400 INTERNSHIP - 3 semester hours
Assignment of students to an Agricultural Science or related agency in their junior year for practical on- the-job experience. This assignment involves career counseling, ethics in the work place, cooperating with others, and following the instructions of supervisors.
AGRI 401 INDEPENDENT STUDY - 3 semester hours
An opportunity for students to work independently on Agricultural Science related issues and problems under the guidance of a single professor.
Prerequisite: Academic advisor’s approval; junior or above standing
AGRICULTURE BUSINESS AND ECONOMICS
AGEC 142 PRINCIPLES OF AGRICULTURAL ECONOMICS I - 3 semester hours
The fundamental principles of economics as applied to the agriculture economy. The syllabus will highlight the agricultural development of the U.S.A. The syllabus will also develop the concept of economics as a social science, as well as the fundamental principles explaining the behavior of major economic units such as the consumer and farm-firm; price determination in general; the concept of elasticity; and the characteristics of various market structures such as perfect competition, monopoly, and oligopoly. Students will be introduced to the application of economic principles to international trade, environmental management and agricultural policy.
AGEC 143 PRINCIPLES OF AGRICULTURAL ECONOMICS II - 3 semester hours
Fundamental principles of economics as applied to the agriculture economy. Particular attention is paid to factors determining the level of income and employment; the analysis of the impact of monetary and fiscal policy on the food and fiber sector.
AGEC 300 INTERNATIONAL AGRIBUSINESS MANAGEMENT – 3 semester hours
Provides students with detailed insight into concepts, principles and strategies to manage an international agribusiness enterprise, to include the following topics: management and marketing, finance and purchasing, imports and exports, transportation and supply-chain strategies, cross-border business cultures and practices, customer service-related issues, and strategies to minimize risk exposure. Prerequisites: AGEC 142 and 143; or ECON 210 and ECON 211
AGEC 340 AGRIBUSINESS ENTREPRENEURSHIP - 3 semester hours
A course for all majors that will focus on the importance of business to the food and agricultural sector in a global economy. The course will explore the mechanics of developing a business plan, and applying the principles of marketing, management and finance. The course provides students with hands-on activities, and works through steps to identify and develop sustainable businesses. The fundamentals of conceptualizing, starting, developing and managing new ventures with a global perspective are covered. The course also emphasizes the entrepreneur's role as a leader, decision maker and risk bearer. Emphasis is on market analysis and competition and in developing agribusiness competitive strategies. Students will develop a comprehensive business plan.
Prerequisite: AGEC 142 or ECON 210
AGEC 342 COOPERATIVE MARKETING - 3 semester hours
The survey of cooperative activities with emphasis on agricultural marketing cooperatives; types of cooperatives; methods of organization and operation; principles; legal and tax aspects; cooperative finance; economic possibilities and limitations of cooperation.
Prerequisites: AGEC 142 Principles of Agricultural Economics I, sophomore or above standing
AGEC 344 FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT IN AGRICULTURE I - 3 semester hours
Introduces the principles of financial management with special application to the farm-firm decision making. Student will be grounded in the fundamentals of financial analysis, planning and control using three basic financial statements- balance sheet, income statement, and cash flow budget. Other major areas of concern will include capital structure, liquidity and risk management. The essentials for the assessment of agricultural business performance will include profitability, risk and liquidity management.
Prerequisites: AGEC 142 and 143, ACCT 200 and STAT 210
AGEC 346 FARM BUSINESS MANAGEMENT - 3 semester hours
Business and economic principles applied to decision making in the management of the farm business. Emphasis will be placed on cash flow, partial, enterprise, and whole farm budgeting information systems for farm accounting, analysis, and control. Obtaining and managing land, capital and labor resources. Also focuses on alternatives for farm business organization.
Prerequisites: ECON 310 and AGEC 344
AGEC 347 LAND ECONOMICS - 3 semester hours
Focus of the course is on the principles of land utilization emphasizing problems of land management, land tenure, factors affecting the value of farm land, land classification and changes in land utilization. The course investigates the role of public policy in land ownership and use.
Prerequisite: ECON 310
AGEC 441 MANAGEMENT OF AGRI-BUSINESS FIRMS - 3 semester hours
Focuses on principles of production, marketing, financial and human resource management and their application to the operation and management of firms serving agriculture. This course is intended to increase students' ability to apply basic economic concepts to decision making in the agri-business firm. Problem solving involving quantitative and conceptual analyses of production and investment decisions, pricing strategies, technological change, and the management of risk.
Prerequisites: AGEC 344, ECON 310, STAT 210
AGEC 443 FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT IN AGRICULTURE II - 3 semester hours
Financial analysis of the farm firm; factors affecting firm growth; capital budgeting techniques; investment analysis; financial aspects of leasing; legal aspects of lending; financial intermediation and major financial institutions for agriculture; credit scoring; loan pricing; and asset-liability management by agricultural lending institutions; public policies affecting agricultural credit markets; risk management strategies in agriculture; farm insurance; farm real estate appraisal, international dimensions of agricultural finance.
Prerequisites: ECON 310, ECON 320, STAT 210, AGEC 344, AGEC 346
AGEC 444 AGRICULTURE POLICY - 3 semester hours
An examination of the process of public policy making for the Food, Agriculture and Natural Resources sector of the economy. Particular attention is paid to the rationale for public policy intervention in agriculture as well as the mechanisms used to intervene; instability and stabilization of agriculture prices and income; government policy choices and implementation.
Prerequisites: ECON 310, ECON 320, POLI 150
AGEC 445 ADVANCE FARM MANAGEMENT - 3 semester hours
Management techniques of planning, implementation and control as applied to farm businesses. Techniques of decision- making in agriculture. Accounting control concepts and decision theory as used to manage agriculture enterprises.
Prerequisites: AGEC 346
AGEC 447 AGRICULTURE MARKETING - 3 semester hours
The study of the structure and function of the food marketing system, demand, supply and market price determination; marketing margins; product quality and grading; markets over space. Markets over time; storage, price discovery and risk management. Market structure, performance and efficiency in agricultural markets. Marketing institutions; cooperatives and agricultural policy.
Prerequisites: ECON 310, AGEC 344
AGEC 448 INTRODUCTION TO COMMODITY MARKETING - 3 semester hours
Fundamental of managing agricultural risks through the futures and options markets. The mechanics of trading in the futures market. The principles of fundamental and technical analysis.
Prerequisites: ECON 310, AGEC 344
AGRICULTURAL EDUCATION
AGRI 240 LEADERSHIP AND ORGANIZATIONAL MANAGEMENT - 3 semester hours
Focuses on the foundational theories and practices of leadership. Emphasizes the application of theoretical concepts to real-life leadership situations. Examines the impacts of organizational history and structure on today's leadership challenges. Attention is given to workplace scenarios and issues, to enable students to explore a vision for continuous improvement as future leaders. Students will observe, practice and develop leadership skills necessary to succeed as advisors or managers of organizations. A practicum will be used in conjunction with this course for observation of groups and group leaders. Organization and functions of youth organizations (4-H, FFA and other youth and adult groups) are also examined.
AGRI 343 PRINCIPLES AND PRACTICES OF AGRICULTURAL EDUCATION -3 semester hours
Students will develop an insight into the history and philosophy of a program of agricultural education program in secondary schools. Special emphasis will be given to planning, conducting and managing a department. A practicum will be used to observe teachers in as they perform management tasks involved in operating a successful educational program for youth and adults.
Prerequisites: Academic advisor’s approval; junior or above standing
AGRI 402 STUDENT TEACHING IN AGRICULTURE – 3 semester hours
This course is designed to provide supervision on the content area for pre-service secondary agriculture candidates.
Prerequisite: Department approval
Co-requisite: EDUC 401, EDUC 402
AGRI 441 ORGANIZED INSTRUCTION IN AGRICULTURAL EDUCATION -3 semester hours
Evaluation of instructional proceedings, planning programs of instruction, and evaluation of instructional outcomes.
Prerequisite: Junior Standing, Academic Advisor’s approval
AGRI 446 PRINCIPLES OF COOPERATIVE EXTENSION - 3 semester hours
A study of the philosophy, history and development of the Cooperative Extension Service. In addition, attention is given to leadership training, and instructional methods and techniques. Each student will be required to complete a practicum with a selected extension agent.
Prerequisites: AGRI 140, AGEC 342; sophomore or above standing
AGRICULTURAL MECHANIZATION
AGME 242 INTRODUCTION TO AGRICULTURAL ENGINEERING - 3 semester hours
A study of the basic engineering principles in the areas of agricultural power and machinery, rural electrification, agricultural structures, and soil and water management.
Prerequisites: MATH 120, 121 sophomore or above standing
AGME 346 AGRICULTURAL POWER MACHINERY - 3 semester hours
A study of the construction, operation, adjustment and management of agricultural implements and power machinery. Primary emphasis is on tractor and machinery management.
Prerequisites: AGME 242
AGME 442 ADVANCED AGRICULTURAL MECHANICS - 3 semester hours
Emphasis on organization and management of the agricultural mechanics laboratory, selection, care, and use of power equipment in construction and repair jobs. Special emphasis is placed on developing skills in areas where the student is deficient.
Prerequisites: AGME 140, AGME 242
AGME 444 ELECTRICITY IN AGRICULTURE - 3 semester hours
A study of the practical application of electricity in the home and in the agricultural industry with emphasis on planning the wiring systems, selection, operation and maintenance of electrical equipment.
Prerequisites: AGME 242
AGME 445 INTERNAL COMBUSTION ENGINES - 3 semesters hours
A study of internal combustion engines to include principles of designing, operating, rating, testing, overhauling, and the application for agricultural uses. Primary emphasis is on the basic operation of air cooled engines.
Prerequisites: AGME 242, AGME 346
AGME 446 ADVANCED AGRICULTURAL POWER MACHINERY - 3 semester hours
A study of construction, operation, and adjustment of agricultural implements, and power machinery.
Prerequisites: AGME 346
ANIMAL SCIENCE AND PRE-VETERINARY MEDICINE
ANSC 140 PRINCIPLES OF ANIMAL SCIENCE - 3 semester hours
Gives an overview of the biological principles applicable to the animal sciences. Concentrates mainly on reproduction, genetics, nutrition, lactation, and other facets of the animal industries.
ANSC 241 LIVESTOCK FARM PRACTICES - 3 semester hours
Supervised farm practices in feeding, handling, and managing farm animals.
Prerequisites: ANSC 140
ANSC 242 PRINCIPLES OF POULTRY PRODUCTION - 3 semester hours
Principles and practices underlying the reproduction and growth of the domestic fowl. Includes the study of breeds, varieties and types of poultry.
ANSC 246 INTRODUCTION TO EQUINE SCIENCE - 3 semester hours
A study of the fundamental principles of equine science to include: Horse terminology, impact of horses on society, history, breeds, management, genetics, reproduction, health, nutrition, behavior, riding, and the business aspects of horse industry.
ANSC 343 SWINE PRODUCTION - 3 semester hours
Feeding and management practices used in purebred and commercial swine production
Prerequisite: ANSC 242
ANSC 344 BEEF CATTLE PRODUCTION - 3 semester hours
Methods of producing, managing, and marketing commercial and purebred cattle.
Prerequisites: ANSC 140
ANSC 345 VETERINARY ANATOMY AND PHYSIOLOGY - 3 semester hours
A consideration of gross anatomy and physiological functions of animals as a background for the studies in nutrition, reproduction and diseases.
Prerequisites: ANSC 140, BIOL 241
ANSC 346 PHYSIOLOGY OF REPRODUCTION - 3 semester hours
Study of reproductive processes with special emphasis upon reproduction efficiency of domestic animals.
Prerequisite: ANSC 345; junior or above standing
ANSC 348 FARM DAIRYING - 3 semester hours
Teaches the basic principles of dairy management, current knowledge in the many areas of dairy science and present day practices of successful dairy persons.
Prerequisites: BIOL 120, ANSC 140
ANSC 349 VETERINARY HYGIENE - 3 semester hours
Predisposition, causes and symptoms of infections, parasitic and nutritional diseases with emphasis on prevention and control through management and sanitation.
Prerequisites: BIOL 120, ANSC 140
ANSC 350 SMALL RUMINANT MANAGEMENT - 3 semester hours
Principles and practices of production, management, and marketing of small ruminants (ex. sheep, goats). The role of genetics, nutrition, reproduction and animal health will also be emphasized.
Prerequisite: ANSC 140, junior or above standing
ANSC 351 FEEDS AND FEEDING - 3 semester hours
Basic nutritional principles, composition and value of feeds and the formulation of rations for farm animals.
Prerequisites: BIOL 120, ANSC 140
ANSC 441 ANIMAL NUTRITION - 3 semester hours
Course matter focuses on nutrients and their digestion, metabolism, biological role and the principles of animal nutrition.
Prerequisites: BIOL 120, ANSC 140
ANSC 446 SPECIAL TOPICS - 3 semester hours
Presentation and discussion of papers on animal industry subjects.
Prerequisites BIOL 120, ANSC 140
ANSC 447 SPECIAL PROBLEMS - 3 semester hours
Lectures and assignments relating to industry problems in breeding, nutrition, diseases, market products, and management of farm animals.
Prerequisites: BIOL 120, ANSC 140
ANSC 448 ADVANCED LIVESTOCK PRODUCTION - 3 semester hours
A study of economic, nutritional and managerial factors affecting the operation of livestock enterprises.
Field trips required.
Prerequisites: BIOL 120, ANSC 140
ANSC 449 SEMINAR - 3 semester hours
Research and presentation of important literature related to the animal sciences. Areas of economic importance to the agricultural community will be emphasized.
Prerequisites: BIOL 120, ANSC 140
HORTICULTURE
HORT 340 LANDSCAPE DESIGN - 3 semester hours
Study of the principles of landscape as applied to schools, home grounds and public areas; the use of common plant material; practices in simple designs and drawings.
HORT 350 VEGETABLE PRODUCTION - 3 semester hours
A study of commercial vegetable production with special emphasis on sustainable approaches to produce, harvest and market different vegetable crops. Students are taught hands-on techniques for vegetable production and harvesting.
Prerequisite: A 100-level science course with a grade of C or higher.
HORT 351 FRUIT PRODUCTION - 3 semester hours
A study of the principles and practices underlying deciduous large fruit production--apples, pears, plums, peaches, cherries, and nuts--with special reference to temperature, moisture, nutrition, fruit seeding and pruning.
HORT 352 PLANT MATERIALS I - 3 semester hours
A study and identify perennials, biennials and annuals for ornamental planting and planting plans. Special emphasis will be on the flower and leaf as a means of identification.
HORT 353 PLANT MATERIALS II - 3 semester hours
A study and identification of trees, shrubs and vines for general ornamental planting. Planting plans, sketches and written reports required. Tree and shrub identification will be emphasized.
HORT 440 THEORY OF LANDSCAPE DESIGN - 3 semester hours
Economic and aesthetic theory of design, taste, character historic styles and composition; natural elements in design; planting design. Students will be required to use various theories in planting designs.
HORT 444 COMMERCIAL FLORAL ARRANGEMENT - 3 semester hours
Essentials of flower arrangement, the commercial flower shop; sources of supplies and sales. Emphasis will be on techniques, fundamental skills and methods used when creating modern commercial designs.
HORT 446 GREENHOUSE CROPS AND MANAGEMENT - 3 semester hours
Principles of greenhouse operation, propagation, ventilation, heating, watering, fumigation, soil sterilization and potting. Emphasis will be placed on practical application of several management procedures.
HORT 448 PROBLEMS IN LANDSCAPE - 3 semester hours
Investigations in landscape gardening by advanced students. Conferences and reports are required. Landscape designs and landscape plans will be a part of this course. Investigations must be modern problems of the landscape industry.
HORT 449 PLANT PROPAGATION AND NURSERY PRACTICES - 3 semester hours
Methods of propagating plants, nursery organization and techniques. Emphasis will be placed on a complete up-to-date coverage of all phases of plant propagation from a theoretical and an applied aspect.
HORT 450 PROBLEMS IN HORTICULTURE - 3 semester hours
Investigations in horticultural problems by advanced students. Conferences and reports are required. Investigations by students must be modern concerns of the horticultural industry.
PLANT SCIENCE
PLSC 140 PRINCIPLES OF PLANT SCIENCE - 3 semester hours
An in-depth study of the fundamentals of plant science, including basic principles of plant growth, culture, development, propagation and the relationship of the broad industry of agriculture to plant development.
PLSC 250 INTRODUCTION TO NATURAL RESOURCES AND FORESTRY - 3 semester hours
A study of the fundamental concepts of natural resource management, including forestry, forest products, conservation, wildlife, and recreation. Critical natural resource issues will be emphasized, including biophysical and socioeconomic aspects, as well as careers that address these issues. Prerequisites: PLSC 140
PLSC 341 FIELD CROPS PRODUCTION - 3 semester hours
A study of the distribution, adaptation, cultural practices, and selection of the principal field crops. Special attention will be given to the identification and habitats of cereal crops, legumes and grasses.
PLSC 345 ARBORICULTURE – 3 semester hours
A study of the selection, planting, and care of trees. Special emphasis will be given to application in urban settings, such as the establishment and management of street trees and landscaped areas, and the many benefits that trees provide. The course will describe current management approaches utilized to maintain and protect existing trees. Students will develop theoretical and practical knowledge, allowing them to work on all aspects of tree care to diagnose and remedy major pests, diseases, and tree disorders to promote plant health.
Prerequisite: PLSC 140 or equivalent
PLSC 352 FORAGE CROPS AND PASTURE MANAGEMENT - 3 semester hours
A study of the production and handling of leading forage crops, their relationship to the livestock industry and the maintenance of soil fertility. Special attention is given to hay and pasture management.
PLSC 353 INTEGRATED PEST MANAGEMENT STRATEGIES - 3 semester hours
A study of the combined use of biological, chemical, and cultural methods utilized to keep pest populations below accepted threshold levels. Special attention is given to pesticide applications, ecological/ environmental factors, residues, application equipment, and economical considerations. Prerequisites: PLSC 140
PLSC 440 PLANT RESISTANCE TO INSECTS - 3 semester hours
The study of mechanisms of plant resistance to insects’ attack and the utilization of insect control by chemical and non-chemical means. Special attention is given to factors related to the cause of resistance and methods of breeding insect restraint varieties of field and horticultural crops.
Prerequisites: Junior or above standing
PLSC 441 PLANT PATHOLOGY - 4 semester hours
A study of the nature, cause and control of plant diseases. This course will concentrate on disease of field, orchard and vegetable crops.
Prerequisites: PLSC 140
PLSC 442 PROBLEMS IN PLANT SCIENCE - 3 semester hours
This course is designed for advanced students to work independently on problems relating to genetics and physiology of horticulture and field crops. The problem studied must be one of modern concern to the plant science industry.
Prerequisites: Junior or above standing
PLSC 445 ECONOMIC ENTOMOLOGY
A study of the classification, structure, description, habits of the principal insects and the methods of control. Student will also become familiar with the economic benefits and importance of insects to humans.
Prerequisites: BIOL 120, AGEC 142
PLSC 446 PLANT PHYSIOLOGY - 4 semester hours
A study of the plant cell, solutions, and membranes in relation to the cell root systems. Emphasis will be placed on the plant cell response to the intake of water, intake of solutes, induced elements, and the loss of water.
Prerequisites: PLSC 140, junior or above standing
PLSC 448 PLANT BREEDING - 3 semester hours
A study of the application of genetics and simple biometric constants to the breeding of field and horticultural crops. The history and creation of plant transformation will be emphasized.
Prerequisite: AGRI 444 Genetics; academic advisor’s approval and junior or above standing
PLSC 452 URBAN NATURAL RESOURCE MANAGEMENT - 3 semester hours
An overview of the ecosystem services provided by urban and suburban trees and green space, as well as methods to evaluate and manage potential benefits, risks, and costs. The course will include a study of the social needs and values of urban ecosystems; urban forest resource inventories; tree and vegetation ordinances; the development, financing, and management of urban forestry programs; and community involvement, public relations, and urban forestry education programs.
Prerequisite: PLSC 250
PLSC 454 SPECIAL TOPICS IN CROP SCIENCE - 3 semester hours
Selected topics for advanced student dealing with current issues in crop science. Special emphasis is placed on modern crop production problems.
Prerequisites: Junior or above standing
PLSC 455 TURF MANAGEMENT - 3 semester hours
A study of turf grasses and their growth requirements, including the various turf operations, equipment needs, materials and work programs designed for the efficient maintenance of turf as related to specific uses
SOIL SCIENCE
SOSC 242 SOIL SCIENCE - 4 semester hours
An introduction to principles of soil science: Introduces fundamental physical, chemical and biological properties of soils, their formation, classification, distribution, productivity, and conservation. It reinforces class lectures with field trips and laboratory exercises.
Prerequisite: CHEM 151
SOSC 344 SOIL MANAGEMENT AND CONSERVATION - 3 semester hours
This course will emphasize soil resources of the United States and methods and plans for soil conservation, including control of erosion, the effects of climatic factors, vegetation, soil properties and other management practices on soil conservation and fertility maintenance.
Prerequisites: SOSC 242 and CHEM 151
SOSC 345 SOIL FERTILITY AND FERTILIZERS - 4 semester hours
Provides an assessment of soil fertility and the alteration of fertility by use of fertilizers, lime, manure, and cropping systems. The role of colloids in ion fixation and exchange is addressed. Calculations for cation exchange capacity; fertilizer, lime, and manure applications in the field are emphasized. The history, technology and use of fertilizers and their importance to the abatement of world famine and malnutrition are discussed.
Prerequisites: SOSC 242 and CHEM 151
SOSC 347 SOIL CLASSIFICATION - 3 semester hours
An overview of soil taxonomy; how soils are grouped and organized based on their properties. Descriptions of pedons in the field, their formation, distribution, classification, and use are described.
Prerequisites: SOSC 242 and CHEM 151
SOSC 450 PROBLEMS IN SOIL SCIENCE - 3 semester hours
Individual study or research on soil or land-use problems. Study of local, regional, national, and world problems related to soils, remedies and reuse after reclamation.
Prerequisites: SOSC 347; junior and above standing
SOSC 455 WORLD SOIL RESOURCES - 3 semester hours
A study of properties of soils, world soil geography, classification, present and potential productivity of soils in various continents, and factors influencing their utilization.
Prerequisites: SOSC 347; junior and above standing
ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE
AGRI 150 INTRODUCTION TO ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE - 4 semester hours
Introduces the principles and basic facts of the natural environment. The course will focus on land forms, vegetation and soils, air and water pollution, water quality monitoring, acid rain, the greenhouse effect, biodiversity, sustainability, and global change. Emphasis is placed on the application of basic science to the understanding and mitigation of current environmental problems. Course format demonstrates how the environment works and how the human use of resources perturbs the environment, citizen action for past, present, and future decisions. A laboratory is taken in conjunction and provides hands on laboratory exercises related to selected lecture topics.
AGRI 280 PRINCIPLES OF GEOGRAPHIC INFORMATION SYSTEMS - 3 semester hours
The course is designed to introduce students to the fundamental Principles of Geographic Information Systems (GIS). The course provides students with a general view of the applications of GIS in a host of disciplines, an exposure to geographic data structures, and an understanding of computerized spatial display and analysis. Special emphasis will be placed on natural resource management, including agriculture and environment. The course is recommended for juniors and seniors from any discipline and will involve instruction, discussion on assigned topics, hands-on activities using GIS software programs, and field trips.
AGRI 290 INTRODUCTION TO REMOTE SENSING - 3 semester hours
The course will introduce students to the fundamental concepts and applications of remote sensing in the areas of agriculture, biological, computer, political, and social sciences, and engineering. To complement classroom instruction, there will be extensive hands-on exercises based on computer software dedicated to remote sensing and integrating it in GIS. Field trips will be organized to visit governmental agencies or institutions where remote sensing is being done.
Prerequisites: AGRI 280 Principles of Geographic Information System
AGRI 350 CLIMATE CHANGE AND ADAPTATION SCIENCES - 3 semester hours
This course explores the science of climate change through evidence for changes in global atmospheric circulation, water, heat, and heat transfer, air/sea interactions, global water cycle, ocean temperature, sea level and acidity due to global warming changes. Students will learn how the climate system works; what factors cause climate to change across different time scales and how those factors interact; how climate has changed in the past; how scientists use models, observations and theory to make predictions about future climate; and the possible consequences of climate change for our planet. Finally, the course looks at the connection between human activity and the current warming trend and considers some of the potential social, economic and environmental consequences of climate change.
