Courses

Course Descriptions

Agriculture Biology

Agriculture Biology is a laboratory science course designed for the college-bound student. The course emphasizes detailed knowledge of the biological principles of the following areas: molecular and cellular aspects of living things; structure and function of agricultural plants and animals; genetics; evolution; physiology; plant and animal diversity; and principles of classification, ecological relationships, and animal behavior. State standards will be met by using agriculture as a learning vehicle. 

This class meets UC/CSU Lab Science "d" requirements (Life Science)

Agriculture Chemistry

This course is designed for the college-bound student and will involve studying matter, atomic structure, chemical bonding, and composition and its place in agriculture. This course explores the physical and chemical nature of soil as well as the relationships between soil, plants, animals, and agricultural practices. Students will examine properties of soil, land and water quality and their connections to plant and animal production. Using knowledge of scientific protocols as well as course content, students will develop an Agriscience Research Project.

This class meets UC/CSU Lab Science "d" requirements (Physical Science)

Introduction to Agriculture

This course helps students acquire a broad understanding of a variety of agricultural areas, develop an awareness of the many career opportunities in agriculture, participate in occupationally relevant experiences, and work cooperatively with a group to develop and expand leadership abilities. Students study California agriculture, FFA leadership, agricultural business, agricultural technologies, natural resources, and animal, plant, and soil sciences. 

This class meets UC/CSU Elective Science "g" requirements (Life Science)

Advanced Sustainable Agriculture - UC Honors 

This integrated class combines an interdisciplinary approach to laboratory science and research with agricultural management principles. Using the skills and principles learned in the course, students design systems and experiments to solve agricultural management issues currently facing the industry. Additionally, students will connect the products created in this class with industry activities to link real-world encounters and implement skills demanded by both colleges and careers. The course culminates with agriscience experimental research projects in which students design and conduct experiments to solve relevant issues. Final projects will be eligible for Career Development Event competition at FFA events. 

This class meets UC/CSU Lab Science "d" requirements and receives honors credit. 

*Alternates annually with Vet Science

Veterinary Science

Career exploration in the field of veterinary medicine, concentrating on anatomy and physiology, nutrition, breeding, health care, disease prevention and management systems of domestic animals and livestock. Veterinary health practices, office procedures, and record keeping will also be covered. Students are expected to earn certification in Veterinary Medical Applications, sponsored by Elanco Animal Health.

This class meets UC/CSU Elective Science "g" requirements (Life Science)

*Alternates annually with Advanced Sustainable Agriculture

Hands On Horticulture

Horticulture involves the practical aspects of plant growth and function, classification, and environmental factors. This course provides a broad view of the horticulture industry in California. Instruction emphasizes nursery and greenhouse production practices, soils, fertilizers and compost, plant identification, and integrated pest management. Application of skills includes propagation of annual and perennial plants from seeds, plugs, and cuttings for use on campus and for plant sales. Students will be responsible for managing the school gardens, greenhouse, and shade house on campus.  

Elective Credit

Agriculture Business Management

This course is designed for the student interested in understanding the operations and institutions of economic systems as applied to our nation's largest industry, agriculture. Units of instruction include basic economic concepts, comparative economic systems, individual and aggregate economic behavior and international trade and policy. Instruction is also given in leadership, citizenship, and career education. 

Elective Credit

*Currently only offered to seniors as independent study