Agronomy Certificate Level I

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
• Introductory Soils & Crop Nutrition
• Weed Fundamentals
• Field Scouting and Data Management
• Field School (online & five-day residency)

Delivery: Online with five-day Field School Residency on Olds Campus

Course Dates: Course dependent

Costs: Please see course specifics below

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 four online courses.  The Field School must be completed last.*

Selection process for admission: First qualified, first accepted

Registration Deadline: Two weeks prior to course start date. Pending availability; late registrations may be accepted with a late fee. Limited space available so register early.

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

Crop Production Systems | AGN 7036

Dates: Sept. 2 - Oct. 24, 2025
Cost: $899 + 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: Sept. 2 - Oct. 24, 2025
Cost: $899 + 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:

1. Diseases of Field Crops in Canada | ISBN 978-0-96916-276-6

Introductory Soils & Crop Nutrition | AGN 7038

Dates: Oct. 27 - Dec. 19, 2025
Cost: $899 + GST
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.

Textbook: Henry's Handbook of Soil and Water | ISBN: 978-0968765012

Weed Fundamentals | AGN 7035

Dates: Oct. 27 - Dec. 19, 2025
Cost: $899 + 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: 

1. Weeds of North America | ISBN 10022607644X
   Cost: $56.50 + GST
2. Weed Seedling Guide | ISBN 0-7732-6129-x
   Cost: $12 + GST

Field Scouting and Data Management | AGN 7040

Dates: March 31 - May 23, 2025
Cost: $899 + GST
Prerequisites: AGN 7035, AGN 7036, AGN 7038, AGN 7039
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 7 - 18, 2025

• Online: July 7 -11
• In-Person: July 14 - 18

Cost: $899 + GST
Prerequisites: AGN 7035, AGN 7036, AGN 7038, AGN 7039, AGN 7040
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.