Agronomy Certificate Program
Committed to Agriculture? So are we!
"Train while you work!"
Prepare to support the agri-service industry by gaining practical training in crop production systems, nutrition and protection. This entry-level program answers industry's call for trained crop scouts possessing basic agronomic skills. Interactive online discussion is emphasized to meet the individual learner's needs and an on-campus field school will cap the program of study. You may have had previous post-secondary training but lack specific knowledge in agriculture, or you may have agricultural experience in another country but require specific training in Western Canadian farming practices. Any of these courses, with the exception of the Field School (AGRN 125) can be taken on a stand-alone basis as well.
- 4 eight-week online courses; 3 credits each
- 2 one-week, face-to-face, hands-on sessions at Olds College; 3 credits each
Following completion of the program, the learner will be able to:
- Identify Western Canadian crops and associated production systems
- Interpret soil test reports and calculate fertilizer blends
- Document pest populations
- Implement integrated pest management plans
- Collect crop, pest and soil field data
- Use selected technologies – GPS, GIS, Digital Photography
- Communicate clearly and concisely with agricultural stakeholders
*Please make note of the new Registration Deadlines associated with each course. Registrations received after the registration deadline will be charged a $75 late fee.*
Courses
AGRN 100D Crop Production Systems - Online
An overview of basic botany and the production cycle for agricultural crops in Western Canada. You will learn the steps of land preparation, seeding, harvesting, and storage of grains, oilseeds, pulses and hay crops. Their identity, uses and markets will also be covered.
Delivery Schedule
- January 11 - March 7, 2010; Registration Deadline: December 18, 2009
- August 30 - October 24, 2010; Registration Deadline: August 13, 2010
AGRN 105D Introductory Soils and Crop Nutrition - Online
This introductory course will provide learners an overview of basic soil formation, soil quality, crop nutrition, and fertilizer practices in western Canada.
Delivery Schedule
- March 8 - May 2, 2010; Registration Deadline: February 19, 2010
- October 25 - December 19, 2010; Registration Deadline: October 8, 2010
AGRN 110D Weed Fundamentals - Online
An introduction to the identification of common prairie weeds. Strategies for integrated weed management will also be described.
Delivery Schedule
- March 8 - May 2, 2010; Registration Deadline: February 19, 2010
- October 25 - December 19, 2010; Registration Deadline: October 8, 2010
AGRN 115D Insect & Disease Management - Online
This course will be an introduction to the major insect and disease species affecting field crops in the Canadian prairies. Management practices for prevention and outbreaks will be discussed.
Delivery Schedule
- January 11 - March 7, 2010; Registration Deadline: December 18, 2009
- August 30 - October 24, 2010; Registration Deadline: August 13, 2010
AGRN 120 Data Management - One Week Residency
This course will be an introduction to the technologies used in data collection for field scouting. This will include GPS, GIS, digital photography and data management systems.
Delivery Schedule
- January 4 - 8, 2010; Registration Deadline: December 18, 2009
- August 23 - 27, 2010; Registration Deadline: August 13, 2010
AGRN 125 Field School - One Week Residency
This field school will be the capstone course of the Agronomy Certificate. In this course you will demonstrate practical, hands-on application of the competencies gained in the prerequisite courses.
Prerequisites: AGRN 100D, AGRN 105D, AGRN 110D, AGRN 115D & AGRN 120
Delivery Schedule:
- July 5 - 9, 2010; Registration Deadline: June 25, 2010
- Mid-July 2011 (5 days) Specific dates TBD
Registration Information
Location: Online courses / On Campus Residencies
Fees: $599 per course
Phone: 1-800-661-6537 Ext: 4677
Fax: 403-556-4711
For detailed program information, please contact Agriculture, Land and Environment Coordinator, Mary Jane Block, (403) 507-7761, mblock@oldscollege.ca
