Agronomy, AAS

The Associate of Applied Science - Agronomy program is a degree that is designed for the students whose desired career pathway is in agronomy and related fields. The program stresses basic sciences and practical, but innovative/technological approaches to the field of agronomy. Course work spans biologic, chemical, and physical sciences and emphasizes a holistic approach to understanding modern agronomy. This pathway provides students an applied science program that prepares the graduate for careers in agronomically related positions such as crop consultant, soil technician, and other related technical positions.

Career Outlook

Agriculture plays a vital role in the growth of the U.S. economy, Ohio, and Northwest Ohio. In the six-county service region, comprised of 1.6 million acres of land, over 82% of those acres are in production agriculture. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of agricultural and food science technicians is projected to grow 6% from 2016 to 2026, about as fast as the average for all occupations. Agricultural and food science technicians will be needed to assist scientists as research into agricultural production methods and techniques continues. Additionally, farmers and ranch managers in NW Ohio is an in-demand occupation as described in the Ohio Means Jobs employment projections.

Program Learning Outcomes

Learners will be able to:

1. Apply agronomic principles to support environmental sustainability or soil, water and air resources.
2. Apply modern agronomic practices, technology and research to solve complex problems in soils, watersheds and crops.
3. Employ scientific methodologies within the disciplines of biology, chemistry and ecology to determine sustainable agronomic practices.
4. Explain the impact of meteorological phenomena and climatic systems in agronomic systems.
5. Analyze an agronomic system to develop a basic farm nutrient management plan.
6. Explain the social, cultural and economic impacts of agronomy and its use of natural resources.
7. Explain the impact of agronomic pests of agribusiness, the economy, and the environment.
8. Apply integrated pest management methodologies to agronomic systems.