Southwestern's agricultural programs offer you endless hands-on learning opportunities. The ag programs are based at SWCC's Agricultural Site. As a student in SWCC's ag department, you will complete daily tasks on the 215-acre farm, assist with the 30 head cow-calf operation, make real-life farm decisions, compete against other students in local and national ag competitions, and complete coursework and a paid internship.
With ag at Southwestern, you have options. You decide which ag program fits your goals and needs the best. SWCC offers three programs--ag business, crop production, or livestock production--directed toward preparing you for the workforce, or you may complete the Associate of Arts degree with an agriculture major if your goal is to transfer and earn a bachelor's degree.
Did you know the Iowa Last-Dollar Scholarship could help pay for the cost of the SWCC ag programs? Learn more at Iowa Last-Dollar Scholarship!
Awards Available
Agricultural Business: Associate of Applied Science Degree
The agricultural business program combines business courses with agricultural science courses. Continuing technological and other advances have increased the need for future workers to gain specialized training prior to beginning careers in agricultural business. This program includes the essential accounting, economics, science, marketing and agricultural courses needed for today’s complex and changing agricultural business world.
This program is also offered through SWCC's online/distance education department!
Agricultural Business Degree Sheet
Upon completion of this program, students will be able to:
- analyze, evaluate, and apply agriculture principles, methods, and techniques in an agribusiness environment.
- demonstrate an understanding of the role of marketing in agribusiness.
- communicate effectively in the realm of agriculture.
- access agricultural financial information and markets.
- apply decision-making strategies in traditional and alternative agricultural industries.
Crop Production: Associate of Applied Science Degree
The crop production program provides a blend of crop-related courses and practical application, ensuring a well-rounded agricultural education. During the program, students obtain knowledge of current practices in crop production and technology within the production field, gaining confidence in producing locally grown crops. Upon graduation, students are prepared for successful careers, whether they choose to pursue position in the workplace or on the farm.
Upon completion of this program, students will be able to:
- demonstrate essential technical knowledge of crops, soils, and growing conditions to make informed agribusiness decisions.
- apply economically sound and environmentally sustainable agricultural crop production practices.
- utilize strategies to market agricultural products based on predicted trends in agribusiness.
- develop the skills associated with computer-based systems on agriculture equipment.
- appreciate the diversity of agriculture and the use of sustainable practices.
Livestock Production: Associate of Applied Science Degree
The livestock production program provides a blend of animal science courses and practical application, ensuring a well-rounded agricultural education. During the program, students obtain knowledge of current practices in the livestock industry, gaining confidence in being able to raise, produce, or market livestock. Upon graduation, students are prepared for successful careers, whether they choose to pursue positions in the workplace or on the farm.
Livestock Production Degree Sheet
Upon completion of this program, students will be able to:
- demonstrate knowledge in the areas of modern livestock husbandry and management practices.
- apply management practices to produce livestock products in a profitable manner.
- assess feed nutrients and how they are necessary for the health, growth and development of livestock.
- evaluate various types of livestock and their nutritional and economic contributions nationally and globally.
- analyze sales and marketing techniques in livestock production.
Potential Careers
- Ag lending officer
- Auditor
- Business owner
- Commodity broker
- Co-op manager
- Credit analyst
- Economist
- Farm and feedlot manager
- Farmer
- Fertilizer applicator
- Grain merchandiser
- Sales and technical service representative
Agriculture Major: Associate of Arts
The Associate of Arts is a general education degree meant for transfer to a four-year college or university.
Contact:
Instructor: Susannah Miller