Agriculture A.A.S. - Production Area of Concentration (175)

This program of study meets all of the General Education Requirements at Chesapeake College.

Award:  Associate of Applied Science Degree

Program Mission:  The Chesapeake College Agriculture Degree - Production Area of Concentration prepares graduates to work in the agriculture industry, either as an employee or as an owner-operator of a small farm; they will also be able to work in the support industries for agriculture.

Program Description:  The Agriculture program is designed to provide a general education background, and the knowledge and skills needed for a career in agriculture. The profession includes work in animal and plant production, as well as a wide variety of industries that support growers. Through curricular course requirements and choices, students build foundations in plant science, animal science, soil science, business, and economics. The curriculum demands significant practical, technical and communication skills.  Learning takes place in the classroom, laboratory, field, and library/academic support centers.

Program Goals:  The Agriculture Degree program will:

• Facilitate proficiency in content knowledge and skills for the College’s general edcation competencies.
• Promote technical competency, professional knowledge and ethical responsibility.
• Prepare students for entry into the agricultural workforce or for further study in the field.

Student Learning Outcomes:  Upon successful completion of this program, students will be able to:

• Understand the importance of agricultural technology in daily life and the societal role of agriculture in the U.S. and globally.
• Identify recent changes in agricultural technology, policy, and practice and think critically about sources of information in agriculture.
• Demonstrate strong oral and written communication skills, both within and beyond topics in agriculture.
• Showcase practical skills and hands-on experience gained through participationin internships with local producers and laboratory classes.
• Demonstrate working knowledge of food production systems and understand marketing agricultural products and the economics of agriculture.

Contact Person:  Dr. Nicole Fiorellino