Train while you work!
This entry-level program answers the industry's call for trained crop scouts possessing basic agronomic skills. Interactive online discussion is emphasized to meet your 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. Course specifics include:
- Crop Production Systems
- Insect & Disease Management
- Intro Soils & Crop Nutrition
- Weed Fundamentals
- Field Scouting and Data Management
- Field School (online & 5-day residency)
Delivery: Online with 5-day Field School Residency on Olds Campus
Course Dates: Course dependent
Costs: Tuition - $799 per course plus textbook
Tuition covers the instruction, materials & field trips (including lunches on field trips). The meals & accommodation is your responsibility.
Length of Program: 8 Weeks/Course
Certification: Agronomy Certificate Level I
*Please note that the (online) Field Scouting and Data Management course may only be taken after having completed the other 4 online courses. The Field School must be completed last.*
Selection process for admission: First qualified, first accepted
Registration Deadline: The registration deadline for each course is 14 days prior to the course start date, however in order to ensure a spot in the course, we recommend registering before that time as sometimes the classes fill before the registration deadline. If there is still room in the class after the registration deadline, you are still able to register if you submit a $75 late registration fee along with your tuition.
What will you learn?
In this program, learners will learn to support the agri-service industry by gaining practical training in crop production systems, nutrition and protection. Following the completion of this course, students will have the knowledge and skills 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 including GPS, GIS, and digital photography
- communicate clearly and concisely with agricultural stakeholders
Course Details
Crop Production Systems | AGN 7036
Dates: January 3 - February 24, 2023
Cost: $799 + GST
Prerequisites: None
Delivery Method: Online
An overview of basic botany and the production cycle for agricultural crops in Western Canada. Students 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.
Insect & Disease Management | AGN 7039
Dates: January 3 - February 24, 2023
Cost: $799 + GST + Textbook
Prerequisites: None
Delivery Method: Online
Become acquainted with the major insect and disease species affecting field crops in the Canadian prairies. Understand the concept of integrated pest management and practices utilized to prevent and manage outbreaks.
Textbooks Required:
- Diseases of Field Crops in Canada | ISBN 978-0-96916-276-6
Introductory Soils & Crop Nutrition | AGN 7038
Dates: February 27 - April 21, 2023
Cost: $799 + GST + Textbook
Prerequisites: None
Delivery Method: Online
Students will study the principles of soil formation, management and soil fertility. Students will also learn soil sampling strategies, the interpretation of soil test reports and basic fertilizer blending.
Textbooks Required: Henry's Handbook of Soil and Water by Les Henry | ISBN 0-9687650-1-7
Weed Fundamentals | AGN 7035
Dates: February 27 - April 21, 2023
Cost: $799 + GST + Textbook
Prerequisites: None
Delivery Method: Online
Gain the ability to identify common prairie weeds, understand their characteristics, and how these weeds impact various ecosystems. Understand the value of integrated weed management, and options for preventative, cultural and physical weed management.
Textbooks Required:
- Weeds of North America | ISBN 10022607644X
- Weed Seeding Guide | ISBN 0-7732-6129-x
Field Scouting and Data Management | AGN 7040
Dates: April 3 - May 26, 2023
Cost: $799 + GST
Prerequisites: None
Delivery Method: Online
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.
Field School | AGN 7041
Dates: July 4 - 9, 2023 (Online Portion)
July 10 - 14, 2023 (In-Person Portion)
Cost: $799 + GST
Prerequisites: None
Delivery Method: Blended
This field school will be the capstone course of the Agronomy Certificate. In this course the student will demonstrate practical, hands-on application of competencies gained in the prerequisite courses.
