Agricultural Systems, BAS

The Bachelor of Applied Science in Agricultural Systems prepares students for careers in farming, conservation, crop advising, management, entrepreneurship, and/or pursuing graduate-level degrees. The program develops expertise in agroecology, soil health, strategic assessment of operations, and effective communication across multiple platforms. Students have the opportunity to gain hands-on experience assessing soils and producing crops. Emphasizing a holistic approach to managing agricultural systems, the curriculum prepares graduates to overcome real-world challenges. With a foundation in agroecology, graduates are equipped to enter into agriculture production or related industries with the knowledge and skills to improve soil health and agricultural productivity. 

Degree Outcomes:

1. Apply key concepts in human ecology and natural resources management to sustainable agricultural systems regionally, nationally and globally, and communicate those concepts to a range of audiences in effective written and oral form. 
2. Critically examine complex agricultural systems using a range of frameworks and tools to be utilized at the managerial level. 
3. Identify and frame constraints and opportunities for future sustainable agricultural systems with actionable plans.
4. Critique different problem-solving methods and approaches, recognize and display visionary leadership with moral and ethical integrity. 
5. Analyze complex agricultural systems, integrating societal, environmental and economic outlooks to develop perspectives in understanding how values shape commerce, research, policy and action in sustainable agriculture. 
6. Investigate and develop sound research design, apply current research methods and perspectives, and experiment with new approaches to scientific inquiry.  
7. Work in collaborative teams, present information for varied contexts and audiences, negotiate approaches and viewpoints, and take leadership roles on important issues. 

Entry Requirements:

Applicants for the Bachelor of Applied Science in Agricultural Systems must have:

• Achieved at least an associate-level degree or 90 college credits
• Completed the following courses prior to acceptance in the program:
  • ENGL& 101 - English Composition I   
  • AGSC 201 - Basic Soil Science   
• At least one of the following plant science courses:
  • AGSC 113 - Cultivated Plants   
  • AGSC 114 - Plant Physiology   
  • BIOL& 213 - Majors Plant   
• At least one of the following economics courses:
  • AGBS 201 - Microeconomics in Agriculture  /ECON& 201 - Micro Economics   
  • AGBS 221 - Introduction to Food and Agricultural Markets   
  • AGBS 222 - Agricultural and Water Policy  

Note: Substitutions may apply for applicants with degrees from other colleges. Contact the BAS Program Coordinator for assistance or questions regarding the entrance requirements.