Agricultural Science

AGRICULTURAL SCIENCE

Agriculture is the nation’s largest employer, with more than 21 million people working in some phase of industry from growing food and fiber to selling it in the supermarkets. The mission of Agricultural Science and Technology Education is to prepare students for employment and/or continuing education opportunities in the field of agriculture. This is accomplished through technical instruction in the classroom, experiential education in the laboratory, the Supervised Agricultural Experience Program, and through leadership and personal development in FFA (Future Farmers of America-student organization).

ANIMAL SCIENCE I

Semester (2 period block)9-12 grade $30 course fee required per semester

Animal Science will provide students with the opportunity to explore the many aspects of the livestock industry. During this course, students will study breeds of dairy cattle, beef cattle, equine, sheep, swine, and poultry. Students will look at animal breeding and reproduction, housing facilities, proper management practices, and feeding and nutrition. Judging and showing of some of these livestock breeds will also be included. FFA involvement is recommended for all students enrolled in this course. This course may also be taken to fulfill a third science credit requirement.

ANIMAL SCIENCE II

Semester (2 period block) 10-12 grade

Prerequisite: Animal Science 1 or Equine Science $30 course fee required per semester

Students will develop knowledge and skills in a wide range of animal agriculture principles, including anatomy and physiology, health maintenance, waste disposal and facilities. The efficient production and effective management of selected animal enterprises are covered, including beef and dairy cattle, swine, sheep, goats, poultry and equine. Practices in veterinary medicine and those associated with small animal care are included.

FFA involvement is recommended for all students enrolled in this course.

FLORICULTURE AND GREENHOUSE MANAGEMENT

Semester (2 period block) 9 -12 grade $30 Course fee required per semester

This intensive course in greenhouse operation and management prepares students to produce commercial plant species in a controlled environment and to manage commercial and experimental greenhouse operations. Studies will also include basic plant biological systems, soil science, plant propagation, and floral design.

EQUINE SCIENCE 1 & 2

Semester (2 period block)9-12 grades $30 Course fee required per semester

This course prepares students to care for horses and horse equipment; to train horses for various work and athletic or entertainment roles; and to manage horse training, breeding, and housing programs and facilities. This course may also be taken to fulfill a third science credit requirement.

INTRO TO HORTICULTURE

Semester (2 period block) 11-12 grades CE ** (PURE)

This course is an introduction to the production of nursery, greenhouse, fruit, and vegetable crops. Residential and commercial landscape construction and management will be explored, and students will learn about interior plants, arboriculture, turf science, landscape plant materials, and home gardening. This class is one of the first requirements for the USU Horticulture Major and fulfills a Breadth Life Science requirement at USU. Utah State concurrent enrollment credit PSC 1800-3 credits). This course may also be taken to fulfill a third science credit requirement.

LANDSCAPE MANAGEMENT/ NURSERY OPERATION

Semester (2 period block)9-12 grade $30 Course fee required per semester

Students will develop knowledge and skills in nursery operation and landscape management practices that will prepare the students to select appropriate plant materials and to design, install, and maintain interior and exterior plantings and hardscapes. They will also learn to maintain the facilities and equipment associated with this industry.

NATURAL RESOURCE SCIENCE I

Semester (2 period block)9-12 grade $10 Course fee required per semester

This introductory course is designed to give students knowledge and skills related to production, management, and conservation of natural resources. Students explore such topics as ecology, range resources, waste management, and land use. Students will also be introduced to various careers in Natural Resource Science such as fish and game officer, water technician, and park manager. Hands-on field experience is emphasized at weekly trips to Wheeler Farm and other sites. This course may also be taken to fulfill a third Science credit requirement.

NATURAL RESOURCE SCIENCE II

Semester (2 period block) 10-12 grade

Prerequisite: Natural Resource Science I $10 Course fee required per semester

This course builds upon knowledge and skills gained in Natural Resource Science I. In addition, it covers such topics as the biological, environmental, and economical importance of renewable natural resources, and forest and range products. Students will also be introduced to various careers in Natural Resource Science such as fish hatchery manager, wildlife officer, hunting outfitter/guide. Hands-on field experience is emphasized at weekly trips to Wheeler Farm and other sites. This course may also be taken to fulfill a third Science credit requirement.

VETERINARY ASSISTANT 1

Semester (2 period block) 10-12 grade

Prerequisite (one of the following): Animal Science I or Equine Science $30 Course fee required per semester

The program will focus on the following areas of study: safety and sanitation in veterinary science, veterinary terminology, anatomy and physiology, clinical examinations, hospital procedures, parasitology, Course oratory techniques, animal nutrition, principles of disease, animals in society, career exploration, and animal management. This course provides entry-level skills for those students who want to enter an occupation right out of high school and provides the background necessary for students interested in pursuing a professional degree. This course may also be taken to fulfill a third science credit requirement.