(Archived) Agricultural Sciences

The success of all great civilizations has been closely linked to their ability to feed, clothe and provide shelter for their population. Modern western society relies on a complex array of high tech agricultural production systems, multi-faceted marketing programs, and an understanding of social, political, environmental and economic conditions that influence global trade. Advancements and innovations in technology have allowed our society to flourish and prosper. The Department of Agricultural Sciences consists of two major programs of study, Agricultural Sciences and Technology. Within each program are a number of specialized programs or majors, offering students the opportunity to tailor degree programs with career goals. Specific requirements for each degree are outlined under the respective program headings.

Agricultural Sciences Program

Approximately twenty percent of our population is involved in occupations directly related to agriculture. From production, banking, and marketing to teaching, processing or service in governmental agencies, many rely on the productivity of modern agriculture in meeting the daily needs of society.

The Agricultural Sciences program maintains four locations with working laboratories. The Agriculture Center is home to the Indoor Arena, Meat Science Lab, Soils Lab, Horse Husbandry Lab, Poultry Science Lab and a state-of-the-art greenhouse. Nearby is the Horticulture Center with two additional greenhouses and laboratory facilities. The Agricultural Mechanization Center provides students with hands-on experience in metal project fabrication, electricity, hydraulics, structures, and soil and water conservation. The 1640 acre Gibbs Ranch is located about 10 minutes north of campus on Highway 75. The ranch serves as a living laboratory for all aspects of agriculture.

The Agricultural Sciences program offers a Bachelor of Science degree in Agriculture* with the following emphasis areas:

*In addition, students may add the secondary teacher certification courses to any of the above emphasis areas to gain certification to teach agricultural sciences in Texas.

Employment opportunities for graduates include but are not limited to: agricultural journalist, agricultural researcher, agricultural equipment specialist, agricultural producer, agricultural sales and service, cooperative extension agent, farm appraiser or credit manager for a bank or agricultural lending institution, farm and ranch manager, field representative for agricultural associations, landscape design and maintenance specialist, soil conservationist, and teacher of agricultural science. Additional career information is given in the introduction to each of the degree programs in agriculture.

AGRICULTURE SCHOLARSHIPS

ARTHUR LYNN TALK, JR. MEMORIAL ENDOWMENT SCHOLARSHIP: $500 - $1000/year, approximately five scholarships awarded annually to incoming freshmen, 2.75 GPA, major in a field of agriculture. Selection based on academic record, extra-curricular activities, and leadership.

HOUSTON LIVESTOCK SHOW AND RODEO ENDOWMENT SCHOLARSHIP: $500 - $2000/year, awards to incoming freshmen, awards to junior college transfer students, awards to currently enrolled agriculture majors (number of awards may vary), 2.75 GPA, major in a field of agriculture. Selection criteria same as Talk scholarship.

SAN ANTONIO LIVESTOCK EXPOSITION SCHOLARSHIP: $10,000/4 years, awards to incoming freshmen only, three awards given annually, major in field of agriculture, 12 credit hours per semester minimum, 3.0 GPA, Texas residents only. Must comply with S.A.L.E. requirements.

JAMES MARCUS SMITH TRUST SCHOLARSHIP: $500 - $1000/year, 2.75 GPA, animal science majors, selection based on academic record, extra-curricular activities, and leadership.

WILSON-WARNER ENDOWMENT SCHOLARSHIP: $1000 - $3000/year, 3.5 GPA, major in a field of agriculture, other selection criteria based on academic record, extracurricular activities, and leadership.

WILLIE FRANK AND VIRGINIA HALL TRUST SCHOLARSHIP: $1000 - $1500/year, two awards (may vary), 2.75 GPA, graduated in upper half of high school class, major in agricultural sciences seeking teacher certification, other selection criteria same as previous scholarship.

W.E. LOWRY LEADERSHIP AWARD: $300/year (approximately), two semesters completed at SHSU, active in Collegiate FFA, good character and scholarship, other criteria same as previous scholarships.

SEITZ GIFT FRUIT/GOLDEN VALLEY FARMS SCHOLARSHIP: $500/year, two awards, 2.5 GPA, major in agricultural sciences seeking teacher certification, one awarded to senior prior to student teaching, the other awarded to a senior within the student teaching block.

LETTS-HOPPER ENDOWED SCHOLARSHIP: $500/year, one award, junior or senior, major in agricultural sciences, selected on the basis of character, academic achievement and financial need.

CLEMON AND CAROLYN MONTGOMERY ENDOWED SCHOLARSHIP: $500/year, one award, 2.75 GPA, major in agricultural sciences, selection based on demonstrated financial need.

PRESTON LEO REEDER ENDOWED SCHOLARSHIP: $500/year, one award, 3.0 GPA, major in agricultural sciences, selection based on demonstrated financial need.

SHSU Rodeo Scholarships

COPENHAGEN / SKOAL — U.S. TOBACCO SCHOLARSHIP: $2000 - $5000/year, awarded to NIRA winners at regional and national levels.

RODEO CLUB ALUMNI SCHOLARSHIP: $300 to $400 average/student, awarded on a per -semester basis.

WES NEYLAND MEMORIAL RODEO SCHOLARSHIP: $500/year, one award, 2.25 minimum GPA, agricultural sciences major, competitor in the sport of college rodeo. Additional information regarding rodeo scholarships may be obtained by contacting Roger Hanagriff at (936) 294-3867; email: agr_rdh@shsu.edu.

INFORMATION ON AGRICULTURE PROGRAMS AND SCHOLARSHIPS

For additional information regarding admission requirements, degree programs, description of courses, and financial assistance available, please refer to the appropriate sections of this catalog. Brochures and information concerning the department and scholarships may be obtained by calling 936-294-1215 or writing: Sam Houston State University, Department of Agricultural Sciences, Huntsville, Texas 77341-2088 or email your request to blane@shsu.edu. Website

Agricultural Sciences Program

This program is designed to meet the needs of students desiring a program of study in farm and ranch production management, agricultural journalism, agricultural communications, agricultural education, and several others. The program allows for the selection of a minor in special interest areas such as chemistry, biology, business, environmental science, photography, journalism, or computer science. Specified course requirements for the major are structured to meet the specific needs of an individual student with the approval of the faculty advisor.

Agribusiness is a growing program for students interested in management in agriculture. The program includes courses in farm and ranch management, marketing, natural resources, agricultural law, tax planning, budgeting, finance, appraisal, business organization, and other courses related to business and management. The agribusiness curriculum prepares students for employment in finance, ranch management, business management, state and federal agencies, sales and marketing, and many other fields related to business and economics.

NOTE 1: A minor in Banking is available with this degree with minimal modifications to the above curriculum. See requirements for the Minor in Banking in the College of Business Administration section of this catalog for details.

NOTE 2: Students should use elective and/or minor hours to satisfy the 42 advanced hour requirement.

The primary purpose of the curriculum is to provide educational experiences for persons who intend to pursue careers related to technical operation and management in agriculture and related industries. It is expected that graduates will assume positions of leadership and responsibility in one of the following areas: agricultural service and sales, agricultural management, agricultural production systems, product service, product testing, service management, or public and governmental service agency management.

NOTE: Degree plan as shown includes 18-hours of specified electives in lieu of a minor. Business, Industrial Technology, or other related agriculture emphasis area minors are available upon request (see Agriculture as a Minor). Secondary agricultural science teacher certification is also available with any agriculture specialization.

The major emphasis in Animal Science prepares students for careers in the livestock and poultry production and support industries. Scientific principles, management, production technologies and skills are covered in appropriate courses. The University maintains herds and flocks for teaching and research. Students may complete pre-veterinary medicine requirements under the Animal Science program. Graduates can expect to qualify for positions in sales and service, inspection, regulation, research/teaching, breed associations, extension, or management in an animal industry.

* Animal Science electives to be selected from: AGR 236, 260, 267, 364, 476, or 480.

NOTE: Students should use elective and/or minor hours to satisfy the 42 advanced hour requirement.

The Horticulture and Crop Science curriculum provides educational background to those interested in employment in fields related to the production, marketing and/or management of horticultural or agronomic crops or related businesses. Employment opportunities include but are not limited to nursery management, greenhouse plant production, turf management, landscape design and maintenance, floral industry, field crop production or consulting, soil conservation programs, chemical and seed production and sales, agricultural extension, and research/teaching.

* Approved electives include: AGR 162, 164, 284, 289, 382, 383; IT 139, 161; GEL 133, GEO 131/111, 461.

The primary emphasis of the teacher certification program is the preparation of secondary teachers of agricultural science. Students gain a broad background in the agricultural sciences along with professional preparation courses in agricultural and secondary pedagogy. This comprehensive background prepares students for a wide variety of professional agricultural careers. The teacher certification option can be chosen with any of the agricultural emphasis majors as shown. If the student chooses to major in agriculture, agricultural business, animal science, agricultural mechanization, and(or) horticulture/crop science, the agriculture electives and general electives should be used to complete the required agriculture courses. All students seeking teacher certification must be advised each semester to ensure proper sequencing of classes.

To qualify for certification as a pre-employment teacher in Farm Power and Machinery, a minimum of eighteen hours in Agricultural Mechanics is required. Courses required are AGR 162, 380, 481, 487, and 6 hours from AGR 284, 330, 331, 382, 383, 386, or 485.

To qualify for certification as a pre-employment teacher in General Agricultural Mechanics, a minimum of eighteen hours in Agricultural Mechanics is required. Courses required are AGR 162, 331, 481, and nine hours from AGR 284, 330, 380, 383, 386 or 485. NOTE: Both the General Agricultural Mechanics and Farm Power and Machinery certifications can be attained when AGR 487 is included in this list.

To qualify for certification as a pre-employment teacher in Horticulture, a minimum of 18 hours in Horticulture is required. Courses required are AGR 274, 298, 299, and 9 hours from AGR 165, 235, 337, 344, 366, 375, 385, 395, 432, 433, 468, 470, or 497.

To qualify for certification as a pre-employment teacher in Meat Processing, a minimum of 18 hours in Meat Technology/Animal Science is required. Courses required are AGR 361, 376, and 9 hours from AGR 230, 260, 363, 460 or 480.

AGRICULTURE AS A MINOR

The minors listed below may be selected to accompany any majors except General Agriculture.

Agricultural Business. A minimum of 21 hours to include AGR 164, 285, 289, and 12 hours of approved advanced Agricultural Business.

Agricultural Mechanization. A minimum of 21 hours to include AGR 162 and 18 hours of approved Agricultural Mechanization.

Animal Science. A minimum of 21 hours to include AGR 169, 373; and 15 hours of approved Animal Science.

Horticulture and Crop Science. A minimum of 21 hours to include AGR 165, 344; and 15 hours of approved Horticulture/Crop Science.

AGRICULTURE COURSE DESCRIPTIONS

AGR 110 TRAINING REQUIREMENTS FOR PROFESSIONAL AND MANAGERIAL POSITIONS IN AGRICULTURE. [AGRI 1131] An exploration of the career options available to professionals in agricultural sciences, education, and business. Specific requirements for the various professions are discussed by a series of guest speakers. Course is intended for beginning students. (1-0), Credit 1.

AGR 238 MICROCOMPUTER APPLICATIONS IN AGRICULTURE. [AGRI 1309] This course is designed to acquaint students with software applications useful to agriculture and how various technological advances are applied in modern agricultural enterprises. (3-0), Credit 3.

AGR 332 INTERDISCIPLINARY AGRICULTURAL SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY. This course is designed to develop competencies of agricultural science teachers to teach essential elements in agricultural business, agricultural mechanization, animal science, and horticulture and crop science. (3-0), Credit 3.

AGR 410 APPLIED AGRICULTURAL TECHNOLOGY. Arranged developmental learning experiences incorporating an application of agricultural skills and practices in an emphasis area of the student’s choice. Individual study plans are devised by faculty to provide student with broad-based knowledge. (0-4). Credit 1.

AGR 412 UNDERGRADUATE SEMINAR. A review of current careers in agriculture with emphasis on professional and managerial opportunities. Includes preparation of resume, interview skills and other means of professional communication. (1-0), Credit 1.

AGR 282 MAN, FOOD, AND NUTRITION: A GLOBAL CONCERN. This course presents a comprehensive review of the ever changing world food situation and offers technological approaches for expanding world food supply through soil improvement, increasing plant and animal production, use of unconventional sources of food, and by improving the nutritional quality of plant and animal products consumed. (3-0), Credit 3.

*AGR 360 AGRICULTURAL COMMUNICATIONS. Provides an overview of information systems, principles and procedures used in communicating agricultural news and information in various agricultural professions. Emphasis is placed on effective written and oral communication means in professional and media environments in addition to public relations efforts in the fields of agricultural education and agribusiness. Prerequisite: ENG 164, 165. (3-0), Credit 3.

*Subject to action of the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board.

AGR 164 PRINCIPLES OF AGRICULTURAL ECONOMICS. [AGRI 2317] This course is designed to give the student an introduction to economic and business principles related to agriculture. (3-0), Credit 3.

AGR 285 ANALYSIS OF THE AGRICULTURAL SECTOR. This course is designed to provide an overview of the various institutions servicing the agricultural sector from production to retailing. This course examines the role and scope of agriculture in a world economy and analyzes the impact on agriculture of changes in the political and economic environment. Also provided is an introduction to marketing activities with emphasis on agricultural commodities. (3-0). Credit 3.

AGR 289 AGRIBUSINESS FINANCIAL ANALYSIS. Principles of farm and ranch management. Topics include: depreciation, inventory, balance sheet, income and expense, production records, income tax principles, enterprise budgeting, partial budgeting, and cash flow budgeting. Analysis and interpretation of farm records. (3-0). Credit 3.

AGR 335 AGRIBUSINESS FOR AGRICULTURE SCIENCE TEACHERS. This course is designed to present Agribusiness concepts that are included in the curriculum of post secondary schools of Texas. Subjects include budgeting, finance, insurance, organization and management, marketing and government policies. Prerequisite: AGR 164. (3-0). Credit 3.

AGR 367 AGRICULTURAL FINANCE. Applications of borrowed capital to farm or ranch operations; methods of determining loan needs for farmers; budgeting incomes to facilitate repayment of loans; cost of using borrowed capital; and management of financial resources in agribusiness. Prerequisites: AGR 289. (3-0), Credit 3.

AGR 377 FARM AND RANCH MANAGEMENT. Focus on planning for the most efficient resource allocation in agricultural operations. Topics include enterprise accounting, enterprise financial management, computer spreadsheet applications, and use of current computer farm/ranch management applications. Offers students the opportunity to gain financial management experience with agribusiness enterprises. Prerequisites: AGR 367. (3-0), Credit 3.

AGR 385 AGRICULTURAL ECONOMIC ANALYSIS. This course presents an in-depth analysis of microeconomics and statistics as related to agricultural economics and business. The analytical and quantitative principles are applied to a variety of agricultural business situations. Topics include consumer economics, production economics, and welfare economics. Prerequisite: STA 169 or MTH 169. (3-0), Credit 3.

*AGR 434 AGRIBUSINESS MARKETING. A study of the major marketing strategies and decisions that must be made by agribusiness firms, including target market selection, marketing research, sales forecasting, product policies, distribution channels, pricing, advertising, and market control. The development of a strategic marketing plan for an agribusiness firm will be required. Prerequisites: AGR 164 or AGR 289. (3-0), Credit 3.

AGR 461 AGRIBUSINESS ORGANIZATION AND MANAGEMENT. Management principles relevant to agribusiness firms: marketing management, sales and the selling process, managerial concepts, human resource management, and business organizations. Prerequisites: AGR 164 or 289. (3-0). Credit 3.

AGR 462 NATURAL RESOURCE ECONOMICS. A contemporary study of issues in land, natural resource and environmental economics. Topics include energy, forests, population, fisheries, world food production, and minerals and pollution. This course discusses market efficiency relative to allocations of natural resources and pollution. Prerequisites: AGR 164. (3-0), Credit 3.

AGR 465 AGRICULTURAL LAW. Legal concepts with application to agriculture. Topics include: legal process, property and water rights, animal liability and rights, biotechnology/ genetic laws, human resource laws, and contracts and warranties. (3-0). Credit 3.

AGR 474 AGRICULTURAL MARKET ANALYSIS AND PRICES. Principles of agricultural market analysis to include: price analysis, price forecasting, forward contracting, futures market, market structure analysis, marketing and sales management. Prerequisites: STA 169. (3-0). Credit 3.

AGR 475 ADVANCED AGRIBUSINESS MANAGEMENT. This course serves as a capstone course for agribusiness majors. Contemporary issues related to agribusiness are approached using information systems, industry representatives, field trips, and class presentations. Prerequisite: AGR 164 or 289. (3-0) Credit 3.

AGR 477 ECONOMICS OF LAND USE AND PLANNING. This course presents real estate principles, value, and investment in agriculture. Topics include rural real estate appraisal, loan sources for agriculture, legal instruments, restrictions to land use, and other topics related to agricultural land and real estate. Prerequisite: AGR 385. (3-0). Credit 3.

AGR 486 AGRICULTURE AND GOVERNMENT PROGRAMS. This course examines government programs that affect farmers, ranchers, agribusiness firms and consumers. Topics include the policy making process and the analysis of commodities, conservation, food safety, international trade, and rural development program. Prerequisite: AGR 164. (3-0), Credit 3.

AGR 162 INTRODUCTION TO AGRICULTURAL MECHANIZATION AND ENGINEERING. [AGRI 2303] History and objectives of agricultural mechanization and agricultural engineering. An introduction to the basic skills of agricultural mechanization used in the production, processing and distribution of agricultural products. Skills covered include: arc welding, oxy-gas cutting and welding, wood working, plumbing, metal working, sketching and drawing, and tool selection and maintenance. (2-2), Credit 3.

AGR 284 FUNDAMENTALS OF AGRICULTURAL POWER UNITS AND CONTROL SYSTEMS. [AGRI 2301] Selection, maintenance and service of agricultural power units including small engine overhaul and preventive maintenance on agricultural tractors. (2-2), Credit 3.

AGR 330 AGRICULTURAL ELECTRIFICATION. This course includes principles of transmission and distribution of electricity; direct and alternating currents; wiring agricultural buildings for lighting and electric power; installation and care of electrical equipment; and safety as related to electricity. (2-2), Credit 3.

AGR 331 MECHANIZATION IN AGRICULTURE. Training in principles of soil and water management, electrification, engine power and machinery. (*2-2), Credit 3.

AGR 380 AGRICULTURAL MACHINERY. Functional requirements, design, construction, adjustments, operation and testing of agricultural machines. Topics include capacities and costs of operation. (2-2), Credit 3.

AGR 382 IRRIGATION ENGINEERING. Principles of furrow, border, sprinkler and drip irrigation; water measurement; sources of water supply; irrigation wells, pumps and power units. Design and selection of irrigation systems for various types of agricultural production. (3-0), Credit 3.

AGR 383 SOIL AND WATER CONSERVATION ENGINEERING. Principles of water supply, water distribution and water control for agricultural uses. Plane surveying, mapping, G.I.S. and G.P.S. are explored through laboratory experiences in design of soil and water conservation measures. (2-2), Credit 3.

AGR 386 AGRICULTURAL STRUCTURES AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONTROL SYSTEMS. Functional requirements of agricultural buildings; valuation, appraisal and estimating; structural requirements of agricultural buildings; planning and designing major service and processing buildings. (2-2), Credit 3.

AGR 481 ADVANCED AGRICULTURAL MECHANICS. A study of basic requirements for the development of safe and efficient agricultural mechanics laboratories, agricultural service centers, and fabrication shops. Skills covered include fabrication and maintenance of metal, wood, and masonry equipment and structures and the selection, operation, and maintenance of power shop tools and equipment. Agricultural projects are designed and constructed in the laboratory. Prerequisite: AGR 162. (1-4), Credit 3.

AGR 485 APPLIED ELECTRONICS/HYDRAULICS IN AGRICULTURE. Electronic and hydraulic principles and applications in agricultural industry. Emphasis will be placed on the use of electronics and hydraulics in agricultural tractors and equipment. (3-0), Credit 3.

AGR 487 AGRICULTURAL ENGINES AND TRACTORS. Principles of internal combustion engines; compression, ignition and carburet ion; analysis and repair of agricultural tractors and their components. (1-4), Credit 3.

AGR 169 ANIMAL SCIENCE. [AGRI 1319] This is a basic course of study to acquaint students with the scope of animal science: origin, history and development of economically important species and breeds of livestock; concepts of selection, breeding, nutrition, management and research as applied to livestock production. Laboratory experiences involve the practical skills needed to manage animal enterprises. (2-2), Credit 3. Fall; Spring.

AGR 230 LIVESTOCK EVALUATION AND SELECTION. [AGRI 2321] This course is designed to present the basic principles and concepts in selection and evaluation of beef cattle, sheep, swine, and horses. The ability to present accurate and concise oral reasons for selecting and placing livestock is reviewed. (2-2), Credit 3. Spring.

AGR 236 ANIMALS AND SOCIETY. This course will acquaint the student with the broad role of animals in society from national, global and historic perspectives. The impact of animals and domestic livestock on economic, social and political policy will be discussed. Emphasis will be placed on agricultural and non-agricultural uses, societal and cultural perspectives, consumer influences, animal ethics, animal research, appropriate animal care, livestock quality assurance programs, animal welfare, animal rights and the animal-human bond. (3-0), Credit 3. Fall.

AGR 260 AVIAN SCIENCE. [AGRI 1327] An introduction to the scientific principles of the poultry industry, as well as the major breeds and varieties of the avian species. Includes a study of the fundamental principles of the various aspects of poultry production, incubation, and brooding. (2-2), Credit 3.

AGR 267 SWINE MANAGEMENT. The scientific principles and technologies involved in the production and management of confinement livestock including functional building design and structure, health and nutritional concerns in confinement livestock and the principles of management and planning. Swine, poultry and other domestic species will be considered. (2-2), Credit 3. Spring.

*AGR 338 GAME ANIMAL PRODUCTION. A study of the principles and practices of game animal production. Game animals commonly used for economic diversification of agricultural enterprises are the central focus of the course. Topics include animal identification, population dynamics, nutrition, habitat preservation and modification, reproduction, game laws, and economic integration in traditional agricultural enterprises. (3-0), Credit 3. Summer.

AGR 363 ANATOMY AND PHYSIOLOGY OF DOMESTIC ANIMALS. Introduction to anatomy and physiology of domestic animals. Aspects of the nervous, skeletal, muscular, circulatory, urinary, and endocrine systems are covered. (3-0), Credit 3. Fall.

AGR 364 HORSE SCIENCE. A survey of the working and pleasure horse industry; breed selection, breeding, feeding, diseases, unsoundness and management. Laboratory work involves evaluation, care and grooming, tack and equipment, and basic management. (2-2), Credit 3. Spring, even years.

AGR 373 ANIMAL NUTRITION. This course consists of a study of the processes of digestion, absorption, metabolism, physiology, and circulation. Each nutrient is studied from the standpoint of chemistry, sources, function, and metabolism. Prerequisite: AGR 169. (3-0), Credit 3. Fall; Spring.

AGR 376 MEAT SCIENCE Lecture topics will include muscle and skeletal biology, conversion of muscle to meat, food-borne illnesses and HACCP. Labs will focus on the methods of harvesting, preparation, preserving, and storing meat. (1-4), Credit: 3. Fall; Spring.

*AGR 431 ANIMAL GROWTH AND PERFORMANCE. A study of the physiological and endocrine system factors affecting growth and performance of domestic animals. The course includes the study of meat animal growth and developmental processes and factors that affect body/carcass composition, carcass quality and value. (3-0), Credit 3. Spring, odd years.

AGR 460 LIVESTOCK MANAGEMENT TECHNIQUES. Skills and knowledge pertaining to the production of beef cattle, swine, goats, sheep, and horses. Laboratory exercises involve various management practices and selection of livestock based on visual evaluation and genetic performance. Prerequisite: AGR 169. (2-2), Credit 3. Fall; Spring.

AGR 476 SHEEP AND GOAT PRODUCTION AND MANAGEMENT. Application of basic genetic principles, physiology, and nutrition to practical sheep, meat goat and angora goat production systems; management, health care and marketing of animals and fiber. Prerequisites: AGR 169. (2-2), Credit 3. Spring, even years.

AGR 480 BEEF CATTLE PRODUCTION AND MANAGEMENT. A study of basic principles and methods of breeding, nutrition, reproduction, management, marketing, and disease control relating to various segments of the beef industry. Application of the latest bovine research is reviewed. Laboratory exercises involve practical skills relating to performance records and management of beef cattle. Prerequisites: AGR 169. (2-2), Credit 3. Fall.

AGR 489 ANIMAL REPRODUCTION. Physiology of the male and female reproductive tract; hormones governing reproduction; the estrus cycle; mating; gestation; parturition; lactation; artificial insemination; embryo transfer technology; and factors affecting reproductive efficiency of common animal species used for agricultural purposes. Prerequisite: AGR 169. (2-2), Credit 3. Spring.

AGR 491 ADVANCED HORSE PRODUCTION AND MANAGEMENT. A study of equine behavior, safety, and training techniques. Laboratory work involves planning record keeping systems, feeding and breeding schedules, tack and equipment, training young stock for work and pleasure, and specialized management practices. (2-2), Credit 3. Spring, odd years.

AGR 494 ANIMAL FEEDS AND FEEDING. A study of the characteristics of feedstuffs, a review of the essential nutrients and digestion, ration and mixture formulation, feeding methods, and nutritional management of beef, swine, sheep, goats, poultry, and horses. Exercises will consist of practical applications in formulating rations for livestock using conventional techniques and computers. Prerequisite: AGR 169 and 373. (3-0), Credit 3. Fall.

AGR 495 ANIMAL BREEDING AND GENETICS. This course integrates general principles of genetics with practical selection procedures used to identify and produce superior livestock. Students will explore the latest technology applicable to the breeding of livestock. Prerequisite: AGR 169. (3-0). Credit 3. Fall.

AGR 165 PLANT SCIENCE. [AGRI 1307 or AGRI 1315] Basic plant morphology, classification, propagation, and crop improvement are topics discussed along with growth and development of crop plants. An introduction to soils, climate, and plant protection follow with a final overview of the major groups of cultivated plants. (2-2), Credit 3.

AGR 235 HORTICULTURE FOR THE HOME. A course primarily designed for non-horticulture majors. Introduction to basic concepts, principles, and practices of horticulture. Emphasis is placed on study of horticultural practices and techniques used commonly for home gardening. Topics of study include planning, preparation and management of vegetable and herb gardens, landscape gardening, turfgrass management, and horticultural therapy. (2-2), Credit 3.

AGR 274 PRODUCTION AND MANAGEMENT OF ORNAMENTALS. This course is designed to cover the principles and techniques involved in the production and management of nursery and greenhouse crops such as ornamental trees, shrubs, annuals, and perennials. (2-2), Credit 3.

*AGR 295 ORNAMENTAL LANDSCAPE PLANTS. Identification, growth characteristics, culture and use of common landscape and greenhouse plants. Materials include trees, shrubs, vines, groundcovers, turf grasses and floriculture crops. Emphasis is placed on temperate region plants. (2-2), Credit 3.

AGR 299 FLORAL DESIGN. This course covers principles and elements of basic floral design. Techniques involved in design and construction of fresh and dried floral arrangements are discussed and practiced. (2-2), Credit 3.

AGR 337 MANAGEMENT OF HORTICULTURAL ENTERPRISES. The purpose of this course is to study principles and fundamentals of management. Emphasis will be placed on application of principles and techniques in management of a variety of horticultural enterprises such as nursery and greenhouse industries, landscape management, floral business, and other allied businesses. (2-2), Credit 3.

AGR 344 SOIL SCIENCE. An introduction to the physical, biological, and chemical properties of soils and their relationships to soil formation, soil fertility, soil temperature, soil-plant-water relations, pH and liming, and conservation of soils. Environmental issues are also discussed. (3-2), Credit 4.

AGR 366 CROP SCIENCE. A detailed study of the world’s major food, feed, and fiber crops. Includes discussion of their origin, botany, identification and classification, climatic and soil preparation requirements, grain and seed quality, utilization, and culture. (3-0), Credit 3.

AGR 375 TURFGRASS SCIENCE. A study of the major turf grass species grown in the U.S. and throughout much of the world. Explores differences in management, culture, and varietal selection for athletic, ornamental, and utility turfs. (2-2). Credit 3.

AGR 395 PLANT PROPAGATION TECHNIQUES. Principles and practices involved in propagation of plants are discussed in detail. Emphasis is placed on sexual and asexual methods of propagation and the factors involved. Propagation techniques of several horticultural crops will be covered and practiced. Prerequisite: AGR 165. (2-2), Credit 3.

AGR 398 LANDSCAPE DESIGN I. This course covers principles, elements, and factors to be considered in preparation, planning, and design of a residential landscape. Emphasis will be placed on the incorporation of plant materials into basic landscape design. Prerequisites: AGR 295 or instructor approval. (2-2), Credit 3.

AGR 432 FRUIT AND VEGETABLE PRODUCTION. This course is a comprehensive study of the fruit and vegetable industry in Texas and the United States. The topics of study include climatic requirements, growth characteristics, cultural practices, and pest control. (2-2), Credit 3.

AGR 433 SOIL FERTILITY MANAGEMENT AND FERTILIZERS. Principles of soil fertility, water, nutritional, and climatic relationships. Emphasis will be placed on sources of soil nutrients including commercial fertilizers and biological resources. Prerequisites: AGR 344 or instructor approval. (3-0), Credit 3.

AGR 468 LANDSCAPE DESIGN II. This course is a continuation of AGR 398. Design skills will be refined as students will experience more variety in design opportunities. Both small residential and larger public spaces will be the subjects of student designs. Effective graphic presentations will be stressed. Installation, maintenance, and management of residential landscapes will also be discussed. Prerequisite: AGR 398 or instructor approval. (2-2), Credit 3.

AGR 470 FORAGE CROPS AND PASTURE MANAGEMENT. Quality evaluation, adaptation, selection, culture and management of the more important plants used for pasture, hay and silage. Particular attention is given to those species grown commonly throughout the southeastern US. (2-2), Credit 3.

AGR 483 RANGE MANAGEMENT. With rangelands comprising the majority of lands in the western US, this course deals with forage-animal management topics common to the semi-arid and arid regions of the US. Addresses the unique management requirements of rangelands, the use of government-owned lands, and the competing uses of rangelands for livestock production, wildlife habitat, and recreational areas for humans. (3-0), Credit 3. Prerequisites: AGR 169.

AGR 497 INTEGRATED PEST MANAGEMENT. A comprehensive review of current cultural, biological, mechanical, and chemical techniques used in managing or controlling agricultural and residential pests. Attention is given to environmental hazards, application methods, and safety precautions in handling and storage of pesticides. (3-0), Credit 3.

DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURAL SCIENCES

Agricultural Sciences Program

AGRICULTURE SCHOLARSHIPS

SHSU Rodeo Scholarships

INFORMATION ON AGRICULTURE PROGRAMS AND SCHOLARSHIPS

Agricultural Sciences Program