The Agribusiness Science & Technology Associate Degree is a 64 Credit program. The following is a typical semester breakdown of the courses within the program.

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Intro To Animal Science (10091104)

3.00

Introduces the basics of livestock management. Examines management of the dairy herd with concentration on nutrition, feedstuff's classification, reproduction, genetics, animal behavior, animal health and sustainable agriculture practices. Learners explore basic husbandry and care procedures for animals. This is offered in an online format.

Conditions

Students who specified one or more of these Programs of Study or Program Foci: Agribusiness Science & Technology, Dairy Science Management

NTC Assessments Offered:

Introduction to Agribusiness (10006100)

1.00

Provides an overview of the agribusiness sector and its role within the modern food system. Students examine how agricultural businesses operate across the supply chain. This course introduces foundational concepts in agribusiness using real-world examples and case studies to illustrate industry challenges and opportunities. Learners will gain a practical understanding of how value is created in agribusiness and how businesses respond to an evolving agricultural landscape. A strategic college plan is developed in this course, and learners develop skills and documentation to prepare for a career in agriculture.

Introduction To Soils (10093102)

2.00

Examines basic soil and plant relationships. Soil fertility is important in considering the role that the soil plays with regard to the availability of nutrients to plants. Learners will study nutrients such as nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium, as well as other macro and micro nutrients. Learners will practice appropriate sampling, analyzing and interpretation of soil sample results. Various soil management practices will be discussed, along with soil physical, chemical and biological properties. The soil profile will be examined.

Conditions

Students who specified one or more of these Programs of Study or Program Foci: Agri-Business, Agronomy, Agronomy Technician, Dairy Science Management, Garden to Market Specialist

NTC Assessments Offered:

Precision Agriculture I: Foundations (10093119)

1.00

Introduces learners to the fundamental concepts and technologies used in precision agriculture through hands-on, experiential learning. Students explore the role of GPS/GNSS, basic mapping tools, remote sensing imagery, and field data collection in modern crop production. Activities include using GPS devices to collect georeferenced points, interpreting simple agronomic maps, and conducting basic crop scouting observations. Emphasis is placed on understanding how technology improves production efficiency, sustainability, and farm decision-making.

Precision Agriculture II: Systems and Applications (10093120)

2.00

Provides an in-depth study of precision agriculture systems, data management tools, and site-specific crop management strategies. Learners examine the operation and accuracy of GPS/GNSS systems, yield monitors, grid and zone soil sampling, remote sensing technologies, and autosteer guidance and implement rate control systems. Students analyze agronomic data, interpret aerial imagery, create management zones, and develop variable-rate prescriptions using precision agriculture software. Hands-on lab work supports skill development in equipment operation, software use, and data interpretation for modern agronomic practices.

Conditions

Student has satisfied all of the following: [Student has completed or is in process of completing all of the following course(s): CROPSOIL 10093103 - Agriculture Equipment Safety] And Student has satisfied all of the following: [Students who specified one or more of these Programs of Study or Program Foci: Agronomy, Agronomy Technician]

Employer/Employee Relations (10091171)

2.00

Introduces topics that relate to working in a farm environment. Topics include personality, family relationships, decision-making and social relations as they apply to everyday living and working in an ongoing family operation or entry into the non-family farm job market. Personnel management techniques include: development of goals, determining personnel needs, finding and recruiting the right people, performance appraisals, training, promotions and terminations.

NTC Assessments Offered:

Agriculture Equipment Safety (10093103)

2.00

Explore the work environment of an agriculture equipment technician. Learners will practice safe use of basic hand and power tools. Additionally, learners will cover various types of equipment safe operation in both a shop and farm environment. Learners will complete an agriculture equipment driving examination. 

Conditions

Students who specified one or more of these Programs of Study or Program Foci: Agribusiness Science & Technology, Agronomy, Agronomy Technician, Dairy Science Management, Garden to Market Specialist

Excel Level 1 (10103242)

1.00

Introduces learners to the basic concepts of using Microsoft Excel with hands-on, project based activities. Learners will develop foundational skills by applying concepts explored to effectively utilize the functions and features of Microsoft Excel including creating worksheets, entering/editing data, selecting cells/ranges, creating basic charts, formatting entries and creating/modifying basic formulas.

NTC Assessments Offered:
Industry Credentials Accepted:
  • Microsoft Office Specialist - Office Excel 2019

College 101 (10890165)

1.00

Examines proven strategies designed to help learners achieve greater personal, academic, and professional success. Learners will apply personal responsibility thinking and behaviors; self- management, awareness, and motivation strategies; as well as interdependence skills to develop a proactive life plan.

NTC Assessments Offered:

Agriculture Sales & Promotion (10091180)

2.00

Introduces professional characteristics and qualities expected of an agriculture sales professional. Learners will develop a complete marketing plan including a market analysis. Further, learners will develop a sales proposal and create news articles, advertisements and merchandizing displays.

Conditions

Students who specified one or more of these Programs of Study or Program Foci: Agribusiness Science & Technology, Agronomy, Dairy Science Management

NTC Assessments Offered:

Principles Of Crop Production (10091135)

3.00

Examines the principles of farm crop production, including classification, growth and management of corn, soybeans, alfalfa, barley, as well as other Midwest crops. Learners will explore soil preparation, plant physiology, planting dates, planting depths and seeding rates for various types of crops. Furthermore, learners will engage in the study of plant structure identification. Different types of equipment used in planting and harvesting will be explored and discussed during the course.

Conditions

Students who specified one or more of these Programs of Study or Program Foci: Agribusiness Science & Technology, Agronomy, Agronomy Technician

NTC Assessments Offered:

Fundamentals of Agribusiness Marketing (10006101)

2.00

Provides an in-depth introduction to the principles and practices that guide marketing within the agribusiness industry. Students will explore how the unique characteristics of agricultural products influence marketing decisions from farm to consumer. The course covers core marketing functions including market research, segmentation, pricing strategies, product differentiation, promotion, and distribution, with attention to both commodity and value-added markets. Students also examine consumer behavior, branding, supply chain coordination, and the impacts of policy, technology, and sustainability on market opportunities. Through case studies and applied projects, learners develop the skills needed to design effective marketing strategies for agribusiness enterprises.

Pesticide/Fertilizer Applications (10093113)

2.00

Familiarizes learners with pest management practices. Pest management requires modern equipment to apply a variety of pesticides, and there is a vast array of equipment on the market. Learners will gain the knowledge and skills necessary to make an effective, safe and efficient application following label instructions. Learners will examine methods of application, equipment choices and calibration and cleaning. Learners will be prepared to take the pesticide applicator exam upon completion of this course.

Word Level 1 (10103243)

1.00

Introduces learners to the basic concepts of using Microsoft Word with hands-on, project based activities. Learners will develop foundational skills by applying concepts explored to start Word, create a new document, create business letters, flyers, brochures, research papers, resumes, work with SmartArt, apply basic formatting and more.

NTC Assessments Offered:
Industry Credentials Accepted:
  • Microsoft Office Specialist - Office Word 2019

College Mathematics (10804107)

3.00

This course is designed to review and develop fundamental concepts of mathematics in the areas of algebra, geometry, trigonometry, measurement and data. Algebra topics emphasize simplifying algebraic expressions, solving linear equations and inequalities with one variable, solving proportions and percent applications. Geometry and trigonometry topics include; finding areas and volumes of geometric figures, applying similar and congruent triangles, applying Pythagorean Theorem, and solving right triangles using trigonometric ratios. Measurement topics emphasize the application of measurement concepts and conversion techniques within and between U.S. customary and metric system to solve problems. Data topics emphasize data organization and summarization skills, including: frequency distributions, central tendency, relative position and measures of dispersion. Special emphasis is placed on problem solving, critical thinking and logical reasoning, making connections, and using calculators.

NTC Assessments Offered:
National Exams Accepted:
  • CLEP® College Mathematics

Cents & Sensibility (10809101)

1.00

Economic Skills is a practical study of consumer problems and consumer choice. This course is designed in an individualized, self-paced format with emphasis on developing the skill of consumer decision-making. Selected topics include: budgeting and family resource management, sources of consumer information, help in solving consumer problems and consumer decision-making in such areas as transportation, insurance, financial institutions, consumer goods and services, housing and credit.

Building Design For The Cow (10091229)

2.00

Examines various barn designs and layouts in order to ensure the well-being of food producing animals. Learners will explore a variety of best practices pertaining to barn design for milk production, animal comfort and reducing animal stress.

Conditions

Student has satisfied all of the following: [Student has completed all of the following course(s): ANIMALHU 10091101 - Introduction To Agricultural Studies] And Student has satisfied all of the following: [Students who specified one or more of these Programs of Study or Program Foci: Agribusiness Science & Technology, Dairy Science Management]

Written Communication (10801195)

3.00

Develops writing skills which include prewriting, drafting, revising and editing. A variety of writing assignments are designed to help the learner analyze audience and purpose, research and organize ideas and format and design documents based on subject matter and content. Also develops critical reading and thinking skills through the analysis of a variety of written documents.

NTC Assessments Offered:
National Exams Accepted:
  • CLEP® College Composition
  • AP English Language & Composition

English Composition I (10801136)

3.00

Learners develop and apply skills in all aspects of the writing process. Through a variety of learning activities and written documents, learners employ rhetorical strategies, plan, organize and revise content, apply critical reading strategies, locate and evaluate information, integrate and document sources, and apply standardized English language conventions.

NTC Assessments Offered:
National Exams Accepted:
  • CLEP® College Composition
  • AP English Language & Composition

Powerpoint Level 1 (10103241)

1.00

Introduces learners to the basic concepts of using Microsoft PowerPoint with hands-on, project based activities. Learners will develop foundational skills by applying concepts explored to create new presentations, adding and formatting slides, navigating a slide show, inserting images/backgrounds, adding transitions, adding animations and working with charts, WordArt and tables.

NTC Assessments Offered:
Industry Credentials Accepted:
  • Microsoft Office Specialist - Office Powerpoint 2019

Agricultural Internship (10091114)

1.00

Expands on learner’s ability to demonstrate skills learned throughout the program. This course will help students prepare for career related employment as they gain on-the-job experience. During the internship, the learner, instructor and internship site representative will be communicating on the strengths and opportunities for improvement of the learner. Internship experiences for this course may be farm or a variety of agriculture career fields.

Conditions

Students who specified one or more of these Programs of Study or Program Foci: Agribusiness Science & Technology, Agronomy, Dairy Science Management

Farm Tax Essentials (10091181)

2.00

Application of federal and Wisconsin income tax laws regarding farming are covered in this course. Understanding how taxes affect the financial picture in a business is critical to the agriculture professional. Learners will apply income tax laws throughout the course as various topics are covered regarding taxation. Learners will prepare individual, Schedule F, and other supporting forms used in reporting financial information.

Conditions

Student has satisfied all of the following: [Students who specified one or more of these Programs of Study or Program Foci: Agribusiness Science & Technology] And Student has satisfied all of the following: [Student has completed or is in process of completing all of the following course(s): ANIMALHU 10091186 - Agricultural Accounting]

NTC Assessments Offered:

Agricultural Accounting (10091186)

2.00

Introduces the key concepts that a businessperson needs to understand. Learners explore three primary financial statements: the balance sheet, the income statement and the cash flow statement. Application of accounting processes: cash and accrual methods, recording business transactions, making a trial balance, creating financial statements and keeping records. Examination of various benchmarks utilizing financial statements.

Conditions

Students who specified one or more of these Programs of Study or Program Foci: Agribusiness Science & Technology, Dairy Science Management, Garden to Market Specialist

NTC Assessments Offered:

Microeconomics (10809143)

3.00

Examines the behavior of individual decision makers, primarily consumers and firms. Topics include choices of how much to consume and to produce, the functioning of perfectly and imperfectly competitive markets, the conditions under which markets may fail, and arguments for and against government intervention. The student applies the fundamental tools of economics to real world problems.

NTC Assessments Offered:

Dairy Nutrition and Forage Management (10091232)

3.00

Explores the relationship between dairy cattle nutrition and forage production. Learners study nutrient requirements, ration balancing, and feeding methods alongside crop and forage management principles for key Midwest crops. Emphasis is placed on optimizing forage quality, grazing systems, and feed technologies to support efficient and sustainable dairy production.

Conditions

Students who specified one or more of these Programs of Study or Program Foci: Agribusiness Science & Technology, Agronomy, Agronomy Technician, Dairy Science Management

Herd Management & Data Entry (10091175)

2.00

Provides learners with hands-on use and application of dairy management software used in industry. Specific topic areas covered on the use of dairy management software application are: animals, tools, design, data entry, reports, inventory and veterinary herd check.

Conditions

Student has satisfied all of the following: [Student has completed or is in process of completing all of the following course(s): ANIMALHU 10091101 - Introduction To Agricultural Studies, ANIMALHU 10091104 - Intro To Animal Science] And Student has satisfied all of the following: [Students who specified one or more of these Programs of Study or Program Foci: Agribusiness Science & Technology, Dairy Science Management]

NTC Assessments Offered:

Psychology of Human Relations (10809199)

3.00

Explores the relationship between the general principles of psychology and our everyday lives. Students are given the opportunity to achieve a deepened sense of awareness of themselves and others. This understanding enables students to improve their relationships with others at work, in the family and in society.

NTC Assessments Offered:

Intro to Psychology (10809198)

3.00

This science of psychology course is a survey of multiple aspects of behavior and mental processes. It provides an overview of topics such as research methods, theoretical perspectives, learning, cognition, memory, motivation, emotions, personality, abnormal psychology, physiological factors, social influences, and development.

NTC Assessments Offered:
National Exams Accepted:
  • CLEP® Introductory Psychology
  • AP Psychology

Farm Business Management (10091190)

3.00

Explores basic entrepreneurial concepts, identifying resources that may assist the agriculture business and family in meeting their goals. Applies theory in the development of a business plan: managing risk, budgeting, financial resource acquisition and business structure. Learners explore various techniques and alternatives used in operating an agriculture business.

Conditions

Student has satisfied all of the following: [Students who specified one or more of these Programs of Study or Program Foci: Agribusiness Science & Technology, Dairy Science Management, Garden to Market Specialist] And Student has satisfied all of the following: [Student has completed all of the following course(s): ANIMALHU 10091186 - Agricultural Accounting]

NTC Assessments Offered:

Oral/Interpersonal Comm (10801196)

3.00

Focuses on developing effective listening techniques and verbal and nonverbal communication skills through oral presentation, group activity, and other projects. The study of self, conflict, and cultural contexts will be explored, as well as their impact on communication.

NTC Assessments Offered:

Agriculture Risk Management (10091233)

2.00

Explores agricultural risk management through crop insurance and commodity marketing. Learners examine the history and structure of agricultural insurance, including yield loss estimation, key terminology, policy types, and documentation. The course also introduces commodity futures markets, contract specifications, and trading basics, along with grain marketing principles from farm to elevator—covering storage policies, price spreads, and the development of an enterprise marketing plan.

Conditions

Students who specified one or more of these Programs of Study or Program Foci: Agribusiness Science & Technology, Agronomy, Agronomy Technician, Dairy Science Management

Agriculture Service Management (10093106)

2.00

Explores the importance of customer service, understanding and satisfying the customer needs and ways to interact with the customer. A variety of assignments will help the learner examine the impact of customer service and its importance in building customer loyalty.

Conditions

Students who specified one or more of these Programs of Study or Program Foci: Agribusiness Science & Technology

NTC Assessments Offered:

Introduction to Diversity Studies (10809172)

3.00

This course introduces the study of diversity from a local to a global perspective using a holistic, interdisciplinary approach that encourages exploration and prepares students to work in a diverse environment. The course introduces basic diversity concepts, examines the impact of bias and power differentials among groups, explores the use of culturally responsive communication strategies, and compares forces that shape diversity in an international context.

NTC Assessments Offered:

Intro to Sociology (10809196)

3.00

Introduces students to the fundamental sociological concepts, including sociological perspectives, research methods, the significance of culture in society, and the socialization process. Other topics include deviance, the impact of groups on behavior, societal inequities, global changes, the role of social institutions, and social stratification

NTC Assessments Offered:
National Exams Accepted:
  • CLEP® Introductory Sociology

Test-Out Option Term Definitions

Test

An exam that is scored by faculty or staff in NTC’s Testing Center.

Skill Demonstration

A performance of your expertise that is evaluated by faculty.

Combination: Test & Skill Demonstration

A combination of both a test and a skill demonstration.

Portfolio

A collection and explanation of your past learning through work or life experience.

Have Questions?

If you have questions about this program, please contact our Career Coaches at 715.803.1645.

If you have further questions regarding our Credit for Prior Learning options, please contact Student Records at studentrecords@ntc.edu or 715.803.1796.