2017-2018 Undergraduate Catalog 
    
    Mar 28, 2024  
2017-2018 Undergraduate Catalog [Archived Catalog]


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Agronomy (B.S.)



Program Coordinator/Contact

David Wright, Department Head
Brent Turnipseed, Undergraduate Teaching Coordinator
Department of Agronomy, Horticulture, and Plant Science
Berg Agricultural Hall 244
605-688-5123
E-mail: david.wright@sdstate.edu
E-mail: brent.turnipseed@sdstate.edu
www.sdstate.edu/plant-science
Click here for additional information. 

Program Information

The Agronomy major provides broad training in the plant and soil sciences and in crop production technology. The integrated program is designed to provide students with an understanding and knowledge base in crops, soils, weeds, entomology, plant pathology, breeding and genetics, precision agriculture, natural resource management, and the interaction of production systems. This major is recommended for students interested in cropping systems, natural/agricultural resource management, or the agribusiness areas of crops, soils, and pest management. Individuals can prepare for careers in crop consulting, crop/plant research, and with private industry managing agricultural inputs such as pesticides and fertilizers; developing improved seed traits, plant sciences, genomics, and seed production; and for work with government agencies, such as the Cooperative Extension Service, Farm Service Agency, Agricultural Research Service, and Natural Resources Conservation Service.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of the Agronomy major, students will:

  • demonstrate a fundamental understanding of basic Agronomy principles and practices;
  • demonstrate the ability to think creatively and to apply critical thinking skills when evaluating and analyzing information;
  • demonstrate the ability to learn, develop, and apply skills for the application of existing and emerging knowledge and technologies in Agronomy;
  • demonstrate the ability to apply scientific principles, quantitative skills, and other problem solving skills in Agronomy;
  • demonstrate knowledge and application of ethical and sustainable practices in the agronomic fields;
  • demonstrate the ability to effectively communicate (written, listening, and oral) with both scientific and non-scientific audiences;
  • be an advocate for Agronomy and Agriculture in society; and
  • be a lifelong learner.

Accreditation, Certification, and Licensure

Course Delivery Format

The program coursework is available on campus, in classroom and laboratory settings, as well as field-based settings.

Requirements for Agronomy Major: 125 Credits


Bachelor of Science in Agriculture

System General Education Requirements


College of Agriculture and Biological Sciences Requirements


Bachelor of Science in Agriculture Requirements: 11

Students who wish to complete a Bachelor of Science in Agriculture must complete a minimum of 11 credits from the approved list of Group 1 courses in Agriculture .  Some departments require specific courses from the list, whereas others leave the selection entirely to the student and the advisor.

System General Education Requirements and/or major coursework may satisfy some or all of the above requirements.  Please review major requirements and the Group 1 list to determine if additional courses are required.

Major Requirements


Agronomy, Horticulture, and Plant Science Electives


Take at least two credits from each of the three areas listed.  Credits: 13

Electives


Taken as needed to complete any additional degree requirements.

Total Required Credits: 125


Notes


Cannot be used to solely meet area requirements.
Can only be used to meet requirements in one section
A Agronomy Major Core Curriculum: A student must have a 2.5 GPA or higher and a grade of C or higher in the courses used to satisfy the Agronomy core curriculum in order to graduate with a major in Agronomy.