Crop Science

School of Agriculture and Industrial Technology

The Crop Science program at Merced College is designed to meet the need for trained personnel in a broad range of occupational opportunities involved with or related to producing crops. The Merced College Crop Science Program maintains 240 acres of cropland which serve as a laboratory for Crop Science students. Equipment and methods used in the program are of the latest type and follow current trends and practices in crop-oriented production areas. Students take an active part in the farming operations by planning individual as well as group projects. The student not only gains the theoretical knowledge associated with production, but also experiences “hands-on” practical application.

A Certificate of Achievement will be awarded upon satisfactory completion of the 13 unit core and 6 units from the electives below with a minimum grade of a “C” (or P) in each course in the certificate and maintains a 2.0 GPA.

Program Student Learning Outcomes

A. Demonstrate how to properly plant different varieties of plants and analyze soil conditions and type for testing.

B. Demonstrate the ability to properly read and apply industry labeled instructions for chemical and fertilizer application.

C. Identify and select the most appropriate plants and soils with the decision based on the environment conditions, plant characteristics and soil conditions.

D. Appraise a hypothetical or actual problem dealing with plantings and soil conditions and the appropriate references to determine a solution to the problem.

Program Requirements:

Program Core: (19 Units)