College of Agriculture and Life SciencesAgricultural Technology Associate Degree Program
Overview
The Agricultural Technology Program offers a concentrated academic experience for individuals pursuing an associate degree in preparation for careers in the agriculture and green industries. Students can specialize in Applied Agricultural Management or Landscape and Turf Management. Applied Agricultural Management Students gain a balanced education that includes courses in animal production, business, and crop production to prepare them for diverse job opportunities. Students can specialize in a concentration area that allows them to pursue entrepreneurial opportunities, agribusiness management, crop production, or management of equine, cattle, poultry, sheep, or swine operations. Business courses provide instruction in financial record keeping, agricultural law, professional selling, personnel management, strategic marketing, whole business planning, and information systems, focusing on strategic management and economic issues of the agricultural industry. Laboratories stress the use of modern management methods and computer applications for problem solving. The animal science curriculum includes courses in genetics, nutrition, reproduction, health, management, business, mechanics, and forage production. The focus is on the biological and economic aspects of animal production and management. Crop science courses include soils and soil fertility, tillage, integrated pest management, fruit and vegetable production, and other cropping practices. Courses concentrate on the production and use of field and forage crops, including their biology and management. Students prepare for a career in the green industry — including landscape design, golf course management, horticulture production and nursery management, and sports turf management. They learn about turfgrass and landscape installation, maintenance, and management. Courses cover landscape design; site preparation; construction and maintenance; and turfgrass species selection, installation, and management. Additional course work includes important topics such as integrated pest management, business practices, computer applications, horticulture production, and agricultural chemicals and their application. Course Requirements for Major
Students are required to complete an occupational internship in their option that provides practical experiences in a work environment. The internship usually occurs during the summer between the first and second year of the program. Agricultural Technology admissions are handled through the office in Litton Reaves Hall. Foreign language is not a requirement of this program. Recommended high school courses include English, Algebra I and Geometry (minimum), a lab science, and a computer class. Students are encouraged to pursue an Advanced or Standard Diploma from high school. Agricultural Technology students have the same rights and privileges as other students at Virginia Tech, except for membership in the Corps of Cadets and participation in NCAA sports. Selected agricultural technology courses can be transferred to a bachelor's degree program in the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences at Virginia Tech. Bachelor degree students are not permitted to enroll in Agricultural Technology courses. Satisfactory Progress towards DegreeStudents must achieve and maintain a cumulative 2.00 GPA each semester; All AT courses will be used in the calculation of the GPA. Undergraduate Course Descriptions (AT)0104: COMPUTER APPLICATIONSA practical course designed to provide a basic understanding of the operation and use of the micro-computer for farm/firm business management. Students will be instructed in the use of word processing software, electronic spreadsheets and data base management systems. The course will stress practical applications of the computer to agricultural decisions, including production and financial management. (1H,3L,2C) II. 0114: APPLIED AGRICULTURE MATHEMATICS This course will provide students with a background in the mathematical methods and operations used to solve numerical problems arising in soils, dairy, horticulture, landscape, poultry, turf, crops, livestock and feeds. Students will become acquainted with terminology and equations unique to agricultural businesses and enterprises. Emphasis is placed on solving word problems. (3H,3C) I. 0124: AGRICULTURAL MACHINERY & MECHANICS Introduction to the operation and maintenance of internal combustion engines, field machinery, tractor and power units, and shop to include the fundamentals of gas and arc welding. (2H,3L,3C) II. 0144: COMMUNICATION SKILLS Written and oral communication skills, including business and technical writing, public speaking, and interpersonal communication. Instruction and practice in the application of communication skills for business and agriculture. Emphasis on effective use of word processing and email software. (3H,2L,4C) 0154: INTERNSHIP ORIENTATION Comprehensive orientation to the summer occupational internship. Emphasis on policies and procedures, learning objectives, strategies for learning, time management and evaluation procedures. (*H,1C) 0164: INTRODUCTION TO ANIMAL SCIENCE Study of animal products, production methods, and management systems for beef, sheep, horses, dairy, swine and poultry. Classroom instruction, demonstrations, and hands-on experience with livestock and poultry. (3H,3L,4C) 0174: FUNDAMENTALS OF TURFGRASS MANAGEMENT Turfgrass identification, morphology, adaptations, and management systems for parks, lawns, athletic fields, roadsides, and golf courses. Mowing, irrigation, fertilization, soil management, pest management, and other practices that impact turf management. Turfgrass management planning utilizing Integrated Pest Management and Best Management Practices. (3H,3L,4C) 0184: INTRODUCTION TO PLANT BIOLOGY AND CHEMISTRY Basic botanical and chemical principles and their applications to sound plant production and management practices. Emphasis on practical experiences in laboratory and field settings. (2H,2L,3C) 0194: AT INTERNSHIP Practical experience in a selected agricultural enterprise, under the direct supervision of owner, manager, or supervisor. Internship will be evaluated by faculty member. Written reports of work experience activities are required. Completion of at least 28 credits with a minimum GPA of 2.00 required. Variable credit course. X-grade allowed. 0214: LIVESTOCK PRODUCTION Agri-business principles and practices in the production and management of beef, and dairy cattle, sheep, swine, and horses. Practical emphasis on opportunities to improve efficiency and reduce the production costs through selection, reproduction, nutrition, and farm management. Must be second year student in Agricultural Technology. (5H,10L,3C) 0224: PERSONNEL MANAGEMENT Principles and practices in the recruitment, selection, and compensation of employees. Emphasis on employer/employee relationships, including incentive programs. Impacts of safety and environmental concerns on the health and well-being of agricultural employees. Must be second year student in Agricultural Technology. Pre: 0134. (1H,2L,2C) 0234: INTRODUCTION TO AGRIBUSINESS AND FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT Functions of agribusiness enterprises within the U.S. economic framework. Economic systems, cooperatives, essential elements of business organization, management tools for decision-making, creating financial statements, business planning, development and analysis of budgets, investing in a business, and time value of money. Pre: 0134. (2H,3L,3C) 0244: AGRICULTURAL LAW AND TAX MANAGEMENT Principles of law involved in the operation of farm and agribusinesses, emphasizing contracts, land ownership problems, legal liability, leases, tax and inheritance laws. Special topics in areas of land ownership, estates, depreciation and gift taxes of primary importance to the farm and agribusiness firm. Even years. Pre: 0134. (2H,2L,3C) II. 0264: MKTG AG COMMODITIES Introduction to the agricultural marketing system with emphasis on factors determining farm level prices. Basic supply and demand concepts including the impact of international trade and public policy. Management of market risk through the use of futures markets and vertical coordination. Even years. (2H,2L,3C) I. 0274: STRATEGIC AGRIBUSINESS MARKETING AND ENTREPRENEURSHIP Principles of marketing through the agribusiness industry including the strategic management of products, distribution, promotion, and pricing to improve business performance. Entrepreneurship is explored as a career alternative including methods for acquiring necessary start-up capital. Solving business problems utilizing finance and marketing tools. Pre: 0234, 0424. (2H,2L,3C) 0284: PROFESSIONAL SELLING FOR AGRIBUSINESS Fundamentals of professional selling in the agricultural environment. Preparing and making sales presentations for an agricultural product. Safety and environmental concerns associated with the purchase and/or use of an agricultural product or service. Must be second year student in Agricultural Technology. Pre: 0234, 0274. (1H,2L,2C) 0294: LIVESTOCK MERCHANDISING A comprehensive study of the principles and activities involved in successfully promoting and merchandising livestock. A livestock auction will be held at the conclusion of the course to provide experiences in advertising, salesmanship, facility development, sale management, and budgeting. Pre: Second year student. (2H,2C) I. 0304: MEATS AND ANIMAL PRODUCTS EVALUATION AND PROCESSING Principles and applications of the evaluation and utilization of animal products of beef, pork, lamb, poultry and dairy origin with emphasis on the conversion of live animals to retail cuts and processed meats and milk into dairy products. (6L,2C) II. 0314: ANIMAL BREEDING AND SELECTION Fundamental principles of animal genetics applied to the genetic improvement of meat animals, dairy cattle, and horses. Emphasis on trait inheritance, performance testing, selection of replacements, and breeding systems. Must be second year student in Agricultural Technology. Pre: 0114. (2H,2C) I. 0324: LIVESTOCK REPRODUCTION Principles and practices of reproductive management used to maximize reproductive efficiency in dairy and beef cattle, sheep, swine, and horses. Must be second year student in Agriculture Technology. Pre: 0164. (1H,2L,2C) II. 0334: PRINCIPLES OF ANIMAL HEALTH A general introduction to animal health principles of farm animal species, intended to provide an understanding of the fundamentals of disease processes and animal healthcare. The emphasis is on disease prevention and control rather than on the treatment of disease. Must be second year student in Agriculture Technology. (2H,3L,3C) I. 0354: FEEDS AND FEEDING Principles and practices of livestock feeding. Anatomy and physiology of ruminant and non-ruminant digestive systems. Emphasis on nutrient requirements and ration formulation. Computerized ration formulation and evaluation. Co: 0104. (1H,2L,2C) II. 0384: AGRICULTURAL BUILDINGS Building materials, planning for remodeling, and construction of farm buildings and livestock facilities. Includes electricity and water requirements, maintenance, site selection, and cost effective planning. Co: 0114. (2H,3L,3C) I. 0404: IRRIGATION AND DRAINAGE Principles applied to solving irrigation and drainage problems. Emphasis placed on hydraulics, irrigation design, irrigation scheduling, and components including heads, valves, controllers, backflow prevention, wire, pipe, and fittings. Pre: 0114, 0184. (1H,2L,2C) 0414: SOILS AND NUTRIENT MANAGEMENT Physical, chemical, and biological properties of soils; soils' suitability for production of a range of agricultural crops to include turfgrass and landscape plants. Properties of common liming, biosolid, manure, and fertilizer materials with emphasis on their environmental impacts. Soil and plant sampling procedures and the analysis of soil tests. Nutrient management plans. Pre: 0184. (2H,2L,3C) 0424: AUTOMATED ACCOUNTING FOR AGRICULTURE Financial management principles applied with current technology and information systems to accounting challenges. Emphasis on creating chart of accounts, daily transactions, invoices, financial statements and managing inventory. Pre: 0234. (1H,1C) 0434: PEST MANAGEMENT: INSECTS, DISEASES, AND WEEDS Identification, classification, and life cycles of economically important insects, plant pathogens, and weeds. Pest management methods: cultural practices, chemical control, biological control, host plant resistance, etc. (3H,3L,4C) I. 0454: ADVANCED MACHINERY AND SHOP SKILLS Advanced applications of equipment operation and shop skills for agronomic farm businesses. Including maintenance and repair of tractors, field equipment and power tools. Engine analysis and welding will be taught. Must be second year student in Agriculture Technology. Pre: 0124. (5H,10L,3C) 0474: AGRIBUSINESS TECHNOLOGY AND INFORMATION SYSTEMS Applies current technology and information systems to key management activities. Emphasis on whole-business planning, evaluation, and problem resolution. Spreadsheet, desktop publishing, document management, and web-development software will be utilized. Pre: 0234. (2H,2L,3C) 0484: POULTRY MANAGEMENT Modern management methods used in the production of chickens and turkeys. Emphasis on reproduction, nutrition, genetics, sanitation and health, and housing. Practical experience will be gained through laboratory activities and the completion of a management project and report on the species selected. Pre: 0314, 0324, 0354. (2H,3L,3C) I. 0494: DAIRY MANAGEMENT Concepts of efficient and profitable management of modern dairy herds. Application of basic principles of business, milking, mastitis control, milk quality, herd replacements, feeding, breeding, reproduction, herd health, housing, and milk marketing management to profitable dairy farming. Pre: 0314, 0324, 0354. (2H,3L,3C) II. 0504: AGRICULTURAL TECHNOLOGY SURVEY Orientation to the Agricultural Technology program and resources available at Virginia Tech. Introduction to state, national, and international agriculture; internship requirements; and opportunities and careers in agriculture. (1H,1C) 0514: CONTEMPORARY AGRICULTURAL ISSUES A survey course designed to acquaint the student with the concerns and critical issues impacting the field of agriculture. Contemporary agricultural issues will be explored. (3H,3C) II. 0534: CHEMICAL PRINCIPLES AND CONCEPTS IN AGRICULTURE Introduction to agricultural chemistry; principles and concepts of inorganic and organic chemistry as they relate to soils, plants, fertilizers, and pesticides. (3H,3C) I. 0544: HORTICULTURE PRODUCTION Production of vegetable, fruit, flowering, and nursery crops, including propagation of these crops. Focus is on the culture of these commodities as alternative agricultural crops, including environmental and cultural requirements for high quality production. (2H,2L,3C) II. 0554: CHEMICAL APPLICATION Proper application of pesticides and other agricultural chemicals used in landscape and turf management and in production agriculture; including application methods, equipment calibration and configuration, occupational health and safety, and pesticide laws and regulations. Pre: 0534. (1H,2L,2C) II. 0564: HERBACEOUS PLANTS Identification, selection, requirements, and uses of herbaceous plant materials commonly found in landscapes; includes annuals, perennials, bulbs, and grasses. (1H,2L,2C) 0574: WOODY LANDSCAPE PLANTS Identification and uses of evergreen and deciduous woody plant materials common in the landscape industry; including trees, shrubs, and ground covers; proper plant selection and location in the landscape site. (1H,3L,2C) I. 0584: FRUIT AND VEGETABLE PRODUCTION A comprehensive study of major fruit and vegetable crops of Virginia and the United States. Explores classification, production areas and systems, marketing, quality, evaluation and utilization. (1H,2L,2C) 0594: FORAGES AND GRAIN CROPS Principles and practices of efficient forage and small grain crop production. Establishment, maintenance, use, and nutritional value of forages will be stressed. (2H,3L,3C) II. 0604: AGRICULTURE TECHNOLOGY II Course designed to prepare student for transition from college to industry. Emphasis will be placed on resume writing, interviewing skills, career and leadership development. (1H,1C) II. 0614: BEEF AND SHEEP MANAGEMENT Beef cattle/sheep production and management. Emphasis on genetics, nutrition, herd health, reproduction, and marketing to optimize performance and profit. Management and flock decisions based on economic and business principles. Practical experience enhanced through laboratory activities. I X-grade allowed. Pre: 0314, 0324, 0354. (2H,3L,3C) 0624: HORSE MANAGEMENT Horse production and management. Emphasis on genetics, nutrition, herd health, reproduction, and marketing to optimize performance and profit. Management decisions based on economic and business principles. Practical experience enhanced through laboratory activities. X-grade allowed. Pre: 0314, 0324, 0354. (2H,3L,3C) II. 0644: SWINE MANAGEMENT Swine production and management. Emphasis on genetics, nutrition, herd health, reproduction, and marketing to optimize performance and profit. Management decisions based on economic and business principles. Practical experience enhanced through laboratory activities. X-grade allowed. Pre: 0314, 0324, 0354. (2H,3L,3C) II. 0654: GOLF COURSE DESIGN AND RULES Principles of golf course design and rules of the game, including: evolution, fairness, progression, hazards, shot value, and safety. The United States Golf Association's rules of golf will be covered. (2H,2C) 0664: GOLF AND SPORTS TURF MANAGEMENT Management of turfgrass on modified soil. Advanced management techniques and manipulation of nutrition and cultural practices to reduce plant stress or increase plant tolerance. Intensive turfgrass pest identification, life cycles, environmental conditions, and methods of effective control. Integrated pest management and best management practices. Pre: 0174, 0414. (2H,2L,3C) 0674: SPANISH FOR THE GREEN INDUSTRY Dialogue-based language skills focused on vocabulary and grammatical structures common to agricultural and green industries. Includes vocabulary and contexts specific to activities in greenhouse, nursery, turf, and landscape environments. Elements of Spanish culture are included throughout the course. Pre: Prior study in Spanish is helpful but not required. (3H,3C) 0684: LANDSCAPE DESIGN Principles and practices involved in the development and interpretation of landscape designs; proper selection and use of landscape construction materials and methods of construction. Introduction to utilizing computer-aided drafting. Pre: 0564, 0574. (2H,3L,3C) 0694: LANDSCAPE CONTRACTING Interpreting a landscape design and properly installing plant materials. Preparing bids for customers using cost accounting principles. Maintaining and renovating landscapes as well as exploring careers and business opportunities in the landscaping industry. Pre: 0564, 0574. (2H,3L,3C) 0904H: AG TECH HONORS SEM Exploration of topics in agriculture and related fields that impact and effective and efficient agricultural industry, including professional leadership skills. Special attention will be given to the collaboration and interdependency that the field of agriculture has with other segments of society, including social, political, and economics areas. May be repeated for a maximum of 3 credits and with different topics. (1H,1C) I,II. 0974: INDEPENDENT STUDY Variable credit course. 0984: SPECIAL STUDY Variable credit course. College of Agriculture and Life Sciences Programs of Study Agricultural and Applied Economics | Agricultural and Extension Education | Agriculture and Life Sciences Agriculture Technology | Animal and Poultry Science | Biochemistry | Biological Systems Engineering Crop and Soil Environmental Sciences | Dairy Science | Entomology | Food Science and Technology | Horticulture Human Nutrition, Foods, and Exercise | Plant Pathology, Physiology, and Weed Science |
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