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 positions in the workplace or on the farm.
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, ag business (for transfer), 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.
Awards Available
Associate of Applied Science Degree
The Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree is a specialized degree that can be used for immediate entry into the workplace. Emphasis is placed on competence of applying basic principles, theories, and occupational skills. These are two-year programs.
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
Sample Courses
- AGA 181 Introduction to Crop Science
- AGS 112 Survey of the Animal Industry
- AGA 182 Introduction to Soil Science
- AGH 221 Principles of Horticulture
- AGA 212 Grain and Forage Crops
- AGB 326 Farm Records Accounts and Analysis
- AGB 235 Introduction to Agriculture Markets
- AGC 908 Agriculture Lab I
- AGC 909 Agriculture Lab II
- ENV 102 Introduction to Sustainability
- AGH 284 Pesticide Application Certification
- AGB 330 Farm Business Management
- AGP 333 Precision Farming Systems
- AGM 202 Agricultural Welding
Click on the course number in the list above to view the course description. This may not be a complete list of courses that may be included for the Crop Production program. To see all courses in a semester-by-semester plan, view the Crop Production program course outline.
Degree requirement advising sheet
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.
