Agriculture (A.S.)

Description of Classes

Agriculture Business

AGAB 110 - Introduction to Agriculture Business - 3 units

This class is a survey and basic understanding of the business and economics of the agriculture industry. It is an introduction to the economic aspects of agriculture and their implications to the agricultural producer, consumer and the food system. The management principles encountered in the day to day operation of an agricultural enterprise are stressed as they relate to the decision making process.

AGAB 112 - Agricultural Sales and Communication - 3 units

This course involves the study of principles of the selling process: selling strategies and approaches, why and how people buy, prospecting, and customer service. Self-management, communication, and interpersonal skills necessary in developing leadership qualities, and facilitating teamwork within the agribusiness sector will be explored. Students will gain experience through role-play and formal sales presentations.

AGAB 124 - Agriculture Economics - 3 units

The place of agriculture and farming in the economic system; basic economic concepts, and problems of agriculture; pricing and marketing problems, factors of production; and state of federal farm programs affecting the farmer's economic position.

AGAB 150 - Agriculture Computer Applications - 3 units

Computer use in the workplace with emphasis on agribusiness situations. Computer applications including word-processing, spreadsheets, databases, and presentation managers will be covered. Also included will be instruction on accessing information through the Internet and World Wide Web, telecommunications, an introduction to web page design and other software applications appropriate to agribusiness.

AGAB 188 - Farm Management - 3 units

This course involves the organization and operation of farm and ranch businesses, identification of factors affecting profitability. Evaluation of the business for increased efficiency, profit and the application of budgeting to laboratory farm/ranch and independent analysis of a ranch /farm.

Animal Science

AGAS 120 - Introduction to Animal Science - 3 units

This course is a survey of the livestock industry, supply of animal products, and their uses in animal production. There is a special emphasis on the origin, characteristics, adaptation, and contributions of farm animals to the agriculture industry. The student will analyze the economic and environmental roles of animal production and companionship to society.

AGAS 125 - Animal Feeds and Nutrition - 3 units

The science of animal nutrition; the fundamentals of digestion and absorption in both ruminants and non-ruminants are discussed. The nutritive value of feeds as they relate to the formulation of livestock rations will be emphasized including by-product feeding.

AGAS 164 - Animal Behavior - 3 units

General introduction to animal behavior. Behavior or individual animals, animal relationships, origins of behavior, and social organizations are discussed.

AGAS 170 - Elements of Beef Science - 3 units

Study of the principles and practices of purebred and commercial beef cattle production throughout the World, United States and California; emphasis on the importance of breeds, breeding principles, selection, nutrition, environmental management, health, marketing and record keeping to ensure scientifically based management decisions and consumer product acceptance as applied to beef cattle.

Equine Studies

AGEQ 015 - Western Horseback Riding for Beginning Riders - .5-2 units

Designed to teach horseback riding to beginning riders with little or no previous experience, and those who have experience riding, but have not had the opportunity to “take lessons.” Students will develop their skills through practical experience, and will have “individualized” equitation lessons in a group setting.

AGEQ 009 - Draft Horse Driving I - 0.5 unit

Work horse history, attitude, approach, dynamics of draft, anatomy, health care, harness and harnessing, and principles of driving.

AGEQ 010 - Draft Horse Driving II - 0.5 unit

Work horse history, attitude, approach, dynamics of draft, anatomy, health care, harness and harnessing, and principles of driving. Progressive skill development from course prerequisite AGEQ 009 to gain proficiency to harness and drive a single or double draft team with assistance.

AGEQ 011 - Draft Horse Driving III - 0.5 unit

Work horse history, attitude, approach, dynamics of draft, anatomy, health care, harness and harnessing, and principles of driving. Progressive skill development from course prerequisite AGEQ 010 to gain proficiency to harness and drive a single or double draft team unassisted.

AGEQ 102 - Elements of Horse Production - 3 units

This course is a survey of the equine industry, encompassing the evolution and role of the equine species throughout history, breed selection and development, nutrition, disease, preventative health, reproductive management, basic anatomy and physiology, and equine career options.

AGEQ 103 - Western Equitation I - 2 units

Designed to teach horseback riding to students with little or no previous experience, and those who have experience riding, but have not had the opportunity to “take lessons.” Students will develop their skills through practical experience, and will have “individualized” equitation lessons in a group setting. Topics: basic horse care, types of gear and equipment, handling, grooming, saddling, bridling, mounting, seat, hands, and horsemanship under saddle.

AGEQ 104 - Horse Conformation and Judging - 1 unit

Horse Conformation is a survey course that covers the varied elements of horse conformation as it relates to the horse in action. The participant will be able to identify and recognize desired horse conformation for the various types of equitation and demonstrate an overall knowledge of how the horse moves.

AGEQ 105 - Elements of Horse Training -1 unit

Elements of Horse Training is a survey course that covers the various elements of horse training techniques. The participant will be able to identify and recognize training philosophy and the various techniques of horse training and advance from the beginning stages of horse training through more advanced stages.

AGEQ 106 - Western Equitation II - 2 units

Designed to teach intermediate and advanced western equitation skills to students with previous western riding experience. Students will develop their skills through practical experience, and will have “individualized” equitation lessons in a group setting. Topics: grooming and fitting, use of equipment, groundwork as it relates to riding, use of natural riding aids (hands, legs, seat), advanced horsemanship under saddle.

AGEQ 107 - Elements of Pack Station & Stable Operations- 3 units

This course will discuss the major business aspects and skills of a horse EQS station and stable management. The program is designed to expose students to current Equine Studies theories, their practical application, and provide the student with specific skills in the Equine Studies field. Students should be concurrently enrolled in EQS 108 Field Experience.

AGEQ 108 - Pack Station & Stable Operations Field Experience- 2 units

Course demonstrates practical skills necessary in organizing and implementing an actual pack trip. Practical applications of skills such as how to plan, organize and implement a three-day pack trip. The application of skills learned in course co-requisite AGEQ 107.

AGEQ 109 - Pack Station & Stable Operations Field Experience- 2 units

Course demonstrates practical skills necessary in organizing and implementing a pack trip. Practical applications of skills such as the planning, organization and implementing of a three-day pack trip. The progressive application of skills learned in prerequisite AGEQ 108.

AGEQ 115 - Elements of Horse Training I - 0.5-3 units

Elements of Horse Training I covers various elements of horse behavior modification. Participants will be able to understand a variety of techniques to teach the horse to respond and advance in progressive levels from Level I thru Level IV, the course levels provides the skills to ex-plain, demonstrate, compare, contrast, differentiate, create and evaluate horse training philosophies, techniques and specific skills.

AGEQ 116 - Elements of Horse Training II - 0.5-3 units

Elements of Horse Training II covers various elements of horse training techniques and concepts. Participants will be able to progress in level II enhanced understanding and skill development from level I. The ability to compare and contrast horse training philosophies, techniques, and specific skills. Prerequisite: AGEQ 115.

AGEQ 117 - Elements of Horse Training III - 0.5-3 units

Elements of Horse Training III covers various elements of horse training techniques and concepts. Participants will be able to progress in level III enhanced understanding and skill development from level II, the ability to differentiate and demonstrate horse training philosophies, techniques and specific skills. Prerequisite AGEQ 116

AGEQ 118 - Elements of Horse Training IV - 0.5-3 units

Elements of Horse Training IV covers various elements of horse training techniques and concepts. Participants will be able to progress in level IV enhanced understanding and skill development from level III, the ability to create and evaluate horse training philosophies, techniques and training skills. Prerequisite AGEQ 117.

AGEQ 123 - Introduction to Farrier Science - 1 unit

Introductory horseshoeing principles and practices, including basic anatomy and physiology of the horse’s limbs and feet, horseshoeing terminology, and guidelines for assessing a proper horseshoeing job.

AGEQ 124 - Elements to Farrier Science - 1 unit

Horseshoeing principles and practices, including anatomy and physiology of the horse’s limbs and feet, horseshoeing terminology, and guide-lines for assessing a proper horseshoeing job. Causes, treatment and prevention of common lameness problems. Progression of student learning outcomes from course prerequisite AGEQ 123.

AGEQ 140 - Introduction to Equine Behavior & Training - 2 units

Introduction to the principles involved in handling and training horses with an emphasis on the historical perspectives and technical development of the unique cooperation between horses and humans. Course covers equine behavior patterns and training philosophy, evolution of horsemanship, development of training equipment, alternative equine health care and therapies.

AGEQ 141 - Equine Behavior & Training - 2 units

Principles involved in handling and training horses utilizing behavior modification procedures that emphasize communication thru knowledge, skills, and respect for the horse. Course includes equine training behavior patterns on the ground and in the saddle. Innovative horse training techniques, equine training problems and general solutions.

AGEQ 151 - Introduction to Horse Event Competition & Showing - 1-2 units

Introduction to Horse Event Competition & Showing provides an introduction to theories and practices of horse competition and show events such as; reining, versatility, horsemanship, showmanship, cow work, equitation, trail, pleasure and halter. Emphasis will be placed on the introduction to the discipline fundamentals, history of the sport, scoring, rule interpretation, and judging. The course will also provide the student the opportunity to study, learn, and practice the basic skills and beginning techniques necessary to participate in horse competition and show.

AGEQ 151 - Fundamentals of Horse Event Competition & Showing - 1-2 units

Fundamentals of Horse Event Competition & Showing develops the fundamentals of theories, skills, and practices of horse competition and show events such as; reining, versatility, horsemanship, showmanship, cow work, equitation, trail, pleasure and halter. Emphasis will be placed on horse competition and show discipline fundamentals, history of the sport, scoring, rule interpretation, and judging. Students will be provided the opportunity to study, learn, and practice the skills and techniques necessary to participate in horse competition and show. Participants will develop an enhanced understanding and skill development while progressing skills and techniques learned in AGEQ151.

AGEQ 175- Ranch Skills Short Course - 10 units

Techniques and skills necessary for ranch work using horses. Designed to teach horseback riding to students with little or no previous experience, and those who have experience riding, but have not had the opportunity to “take lessons.” Students will develop their skills through practical experience, and will have “individualized” equitation lessons in a group setting. Application of introductory, intermediate and advanced roping and cattle working techniques. Allows student to participate in working cows, roping, sorting and other ranch related activities. Successful achievement of student learning outcomes will lead to a Certificate of Specialization in Fundamentals of Ranch Skills. Along with the Certificate of Specialization, students can apply the AGEQ 175 Ranch Skills Short Course as a substitute for the following courses when utilized towards the Equine Studies Associate Degree or Equine Studies Certificate of Achievement: AGEQ 001 (2 units), AGEQ 103 (2 units), AGEQ 210 (2 units), AGEQ 211 (2 units), and AGEQ 212 (2 units).

AGEQ 204 - Training Horses Under Saddle Fall - 2 Units

Basic principles involved in handling and training the young horse. Course includes groundwork, philosophy of colt starting, advancing the green horse, and problem solving. Special emphasis on continuing the Fall training of two-year olds started in the Spring.

AGEQ 205 - Training Horses Under Saddle Spring - 2 Units

AGEQ 206 - Advanced Training of Young Horses - 2 Units

Advanced principles and applications of equine behavior modification for training young horses in advanced maneuvers under saddle: Lead departures, lead changes, spinning, collection, stopping and working cattle. It is recommended for student success that AGEQ 205 and AGEQ 103 be completed prior to enrolling in AGEQ 206.

AGEQ 207 - Preparing the Horse for Sale and Show - 2 Units

Instruction in fitting and showing horses. Students gain experience training, conditioning, grooming, showing and /or selling horses. Training young horses in advanced maneuvers under saddle including cow work, rope work, trail, versatility, and reining patterns. Techniques and applications of fitting a horse in preparation for horse sale or show. It is recommended for student success that AGEQ 205 and AGEQ 103 be completed prior to or concurrent to enrolling in AGEQ 207.

AGEQ 208 - Advanced Pack Station & Stable Operations Field Experience- 2 units

The course demonstrates the practical skills necessary in the organization and implementation of a pack trip. The class will conclude with a three-day pack trip that is planned and organized by the students. Prerequisite AGEQ 107 and AGEQ 108.

AGEQ 210 - Intro To Ranch Work with Horses - 1-4 units

Students learn the techniques and skills necessary for Cattle/Guest Ranch operation, and selection of equipment and horses. This course also covers the principles of working cattle and ranch roping, specializing in the training of horses for ranch work.

AGEQ 211 - Applied Ranch Skills with Horses I - 1-2 units

Application of intermediate roping and cattle working techniques with horses. Allows student to participate horseback working cows, roping, sorting and other ranch related activities.

AGEQ 212 - Applied Ranch Skills with Horses II - 1-2 units

Application of advanced roping and cattle working techniques with hors-es. Allows students to participate horseback working cows, roping, sort-ing and other ranch related activities. The ability to demonstrate ad-vanced ranch techniques and skills. Course prerequisite AGEQ 211.

AGEQ 214 - Handling and Care of the Foal, Weanling, and Yearling Horse Fall - 1 unit

Course will focus on the management and handling of foals, weanlings, and yearling horses. Emphasizing safe and practical behavior handling techniques as well as current management practices utilized in health and farrier care. Special emphasis on care and candling of weanlings in the Fall.

AGEQ 215 - Handling and Care of the Foal, Weanling, and Yearling Horse Spring - 1 unit

AGEQ 216 - Advanced Handling and Care of the Foal, Weanling, and Yearling Horse Fall- 1 unit

AGEQ 217 - Advanced Handling and Care of the Foal, Weanling, and Yearling Horse Spring- 1 unit

AGEQ 225 - Ranch Horsemanship - .5-3 units

Ranch Horsemanship is a survey course that covers the techniques and philosophies of training horses for ranch purposes. Participants will be able to identify and recognize training philosophies and various tech-niques of horse training, and advance from intermediate to advanced stag-es of horse training and in ranch horsemanship. Prerequisite AGEQ 103 and 115.

AGEQ 226 - Advanced Horsemanship - .5-3 units

Advanced Horsemanship is a survey course that covers the techniques and philosophies of advanced horse training. Participants will be able to identify and recognize training philosophies and various techniques of horse training, and advance from intermediate to advanced stages of horse training and horsemanship. Prerequisite AGEQ 103 and 115.

AGEQ 227 - Advanced Ranch Horsemanship - .5-3 units

Advanced Ranch Horsemanship covers the techniques and philosophies of training horses for ranch purposes. Participants will learn horse training philosophies and techniques related to work with cattle. For advanced levels of horse training and in ranch horsemanship. Prerequisite AGEQ 225.

AGEQ 251 - Advanced Horse Competition and Show Level I - 1-2 units

Advanced Horse Competition and Show Level I develops the skills, theories, and practices of horse competition and show events such as; reining, versatility, horsemanship, showmanship, cow work, equitation, trail, pleasure and halter. Emphasis will be placed on horse competition and show techniques, scoring, rule interpretation, judging, and assisting the course instructor in developing the horse and rider in AGEQ151 and AGEQ152. Students will be provided the opportunity to study, learn, and practice the skills and techniques necessary to participate in horse competition and show. Participants will develop an enhanced understanding and skill development while progressing skills and techniques learned in AGEQ152.

AGEQ 252 - Advanced Horse Competition and Show Level II - 1-2 units

Advanced Horse Competition and Show Level II advances the theories, and practices of horse competition and show events such as; reining, versatility, horsemanship, showmanship, cow work, equitation, trail, pleasure and halter. Emphasis will be placed on management of horse competition and participation in horse show events. Students will be provided the opportunity to study, learn, and practice the skills and techniques necessary to participate in horse competition and show while assisting the course instructor in developing the horse and rider in AGEQ151 and AGEQ152. Participants will develop an enhanced understanding and skill development while progressing skills and techniques learned in AGEQ251.

AGEQ 296 - Special Projects in Equine Studies: Behavior and Training - 1-4 units

Individual opportunities to study investigate research and participate in equine studies projects that are specific to equine behavior and training such as; hackamore training, bridle training, advanced saddle horse training, cow-horse training, behavior modification. Student completes different performance objectives for each unit of credit.

AGEQ 297 - Special Projects in Equine Studies: Summer/Fall Operations - 1-4 units

Individual opportunities to study investigate research and participate in equine studies projects that are specific to the Summer and Fall months such as; Fall production sales, Futurity Horse Training, Weaning and halter breaking foals, Fall Hunt-Packing trips, Winter livestock preparation. Student completes different performance objectives for each unit of credit.

AGEQ 298 - Special Projects in Equine Studies: Winter/Spring Operations - 1-4 units

Individual opportunities to study investigate research and participate in specific equine studies projects during the Winter and Spring months such as; reproductive management of the stallion or broodmare, care of the newborn foal, starting the two year old, sale horse preparation, horse show preparation. Student completes different performance objectives for each unit of credit.

AGEQ 299 - Special Topics in Equine Studies - 0.5-3 units

Course covers selected topics in evolving issues or research in the area of Equine Studies or special field topics not covered by regular course offerings. Independent student research and presentation are emphasized.

Equine Studies Rodeo

AGEQ 180 - Rodeo Skills & Techniques Men’s Events - 1-4 units

This course focuses on the fundamental, theory, and practice of intercollegiate men’s rodeo events; bareback riding, saddle bronc riding, bull riding, tie down roping, steer wrestling, team roping emphasizing the physiological fundamentals, history of the sport, scoring, rule interpretation, and judging. The course will also provide the student the opportunity to study, learn and practice the skills and techniques necessary to participate in intercollegiate men’s rodeo events. PREQ: Approval of instructor in regards to student’s minimum physical and mental abilities necessary to participate in rodeo events.

AGEQ 181 - Rodeo Skills & Techniques Women’s Events - 1-4 units

This course focuses on the fundamental, theory, and practice of intercollegiate women’s rodeo events; barrel racing, goat tying, break away roping, team roping emphasizing the physiological fundamentals, history of the sport, scoring, rule interpretation, and judging. The course will also provide the student the opportunity to study, learn and practice the skills and techniques necessary to participate in intercollegiate women’s rodeo events. PREQ: Approval of instructor in regards to student’s minimum physical and mental abilities necessary to participate in rodeo events.

AGEQ 182 - Intercollegiate Rodeo - 2 units

Designed to provide students the opportunity to further develop their proficiency in men & women’s intercollegiate rodeo events. Methods in competitive performance, individual and team strategy, in a National Intercollegiate Rodeo Association (NIRA) sanctioned competition event. Students will travel to various college rodeos and practices. Classes will be held at the Rodeo facility. Includes practice field trips. PREQ: Recommended or concurrent enrollment in EQS 180 or 181. Limited to students who qualify to compete in NIRA events.

AGEQ 184 - Advanced Intercollegiate Rodeo - 2 units

Designed to provide students with additional opportunities to further develop their proficiency in man & women’s intercollegiate rodeo events. In depth advanced techniques of competitive performances, individual and team strategy in National Intercollegiate Rodeo Association (NIRA) sanctioned competitions. Students will travel to various college rodeos and practices. Classes will be held at the Rodeo facility. Includes practice field trips. PREQ: Recommended or concurrent enrollment in EQS 182. Limited to students who qualify to compete in NIRA events.

AGEQ 186 - Rodeo Production - 1 units

Practical application of the planning, organizing, and staging of an inter-collegiate rodeo. Students participate in all aspects of rodeo production, procedures, promotion, finance, rodeo contractors, and sponsorship. Stu-dents will be required to serve on a rodeo committee and work outside of class and on the weekends of the rodeo.

Mechanized Agriculture

AGMA 84 - Ranch Operations: Fencing and Irrigation - 3 units

General introduction into irrigation and fencing principles: plant, soil, and water relationships; soil moisture sensing devices; delivery systems; design of drip, sprinkler, and surface irrigation systems, and use of chemigation. The class will also provide general knowledge into the fencing industry, including supplies, design, materials, and differing types of fencing.

AGMA 108 - Tractor Operation - 3 units

This course involves design principles, selection, maintenance, adjustment, and safe operation of wheel and track type tractors used in agriculture and in the construction industry.

AGMA 140 - Beginning Agriculture Metal Fabrication - 3 units

This course is designed to provide basic shop and job site fundamentals of welding; to allow students to design and apply arc and mig welding techniques as well as acetylene cutting in the field

AGMA 146 - Introductory Ag. Structural Technology - 3 units

This is an introductory course in planning and designing various types of farm buildings necessary for agricultural enterprises. Characteristics, types, fabrication techniques and costs of construction materials used in farm buildings will be studied. A practical course in building metal, wood or composite frame buildings from planning to finish is included.

AGMA 160 - Introduction to Mechanized Agriculture - 3 units

This course involves basic mechanical skills in woodworking, cold metal, electricity, plumbing, concrete, and project construction skills as related to farm maintenance and repair. Hand and power tool use skills will be developed. Safety practices for all mechanical areas will be covered.