Agricultural Science

The purpose of “Agricultural Economics” is to engage students in the exploration of the agriculture and food industry while introducing them to the basic principles of economics, business, and finance. Agricultural Economics is an introductory survey course that presents the basic theories and concepts of economic thought. Conforming to the New York State Curriculum in Economics, students will learn how the market functions, the laws governing the behaviors of consumers and suppliers in the marketplace, economic history and thought, fiscal policy, monetary policy, personal finance, and more. Experiences to develop career paths and improve employability skills will be woven throughout the course. Students will also have the opportunity to develop an SAE (supervised agricultural experience) and leadership skills by joining FFA. This course is a dual-credit course through SUNY Morrisville.

The purpose of “Animal Science” is to engage students in the exploration of animal science and related industries. Students will explore the range of career opportunities and pathways of study available for their future. They will learn through exploration, hands-on activities, problems and projects. Students will also have the opportunity to join FFA. Units include: Animal Industries, Animal Behavior, Animal Welfare, Safety & Biosecurity, Anatomy & Physiology, Feeding & Nutrition, Reproduction & Genetics, Large Animals, Companion Animals, Exotic Animals and Biotechnology in the Animal Industry.

Prerequisite: Biology/Living Environment is recommended. This course can fulfill one science credit requirement and is a dual-credit course through SUNY Morrisville. This course is offered on a rotating basis and will be offered in 2026-2027.

The purpose of “Principles of Agriculture, Food & Natural Resources (AFNR)” is to introduce students to the range of agricultural career opportunities and pathways of study they may pursue. Students will learn through exploration, hands-on activities, problems and projects. Experiences to develop career paths and to improve employability skills of students will be woven throughout the course. Enrollment in AFNR will also give students the opportunity to join FFA and to develop their potential for leadership & growth. Topics include Introduction to Agriculture, Career Planning, Leadership through FFA, Agriculture & Workplace Safety, Importance of Food, Animal Production Systems, Environmental Systems, Natural Resources, Agricultural Engineering & Technology and Plant Production Systems.

Veterinary science covers the basics of animal care. Topics covered include disease, parasites, feeding, shelter, grooming, and general animal care. The target population is career preparatory students desiring to continue their education after high school or to enter the workforce after graduation from high school. College preparatory students benefit from the course as an elective if they plan to enter college and pursue a degree to enter the veterinary profession. This course allows students entering the workforce after graduation from high school to develop entry-level skills to become employed and to continue their education on the job. Students experience career exploration and leadership development through FFA.

Prerequisite: Biology/Living Environment is recommended. This course can fulfill one science credit requirement. Note: This course is based upon the secondary school Veterinary Science Curriculum released by Cornell University. This course is offered on a rotating basis and will be offered in 2027-2028.

Natural Resources and Conservation helps students understand the relationships between natural resources and the environment. Topics include energy and nutrient cycles, water resources and management, soil conservation, wildlife preservation and management, forest and fire management, lumber production, the outdoor recreation industry and multiple use management. Career exploration, communication skills and leadership development will be woven throughout the course. Students have the opportunity to join FFA and participate in various contests. This course can fulfill one science credit requirement and is a dual-credit course with Tompkins Cortland Community College (TC3). This course is offered on a rotating basis and will be offered in 2026-2027.

The Introduction to Horticulture course prepares students for careers in the nursery, landscaping, vegetable crop and floral industries. This course exposes students to the art and science of growing plants, flowers, herbs, fruits and vegetables. A wide variety of topics are covered including: plant science, greenhouse and nursery operations, soil science and media mixtures, houseplant, flower, herb and vegetable production and weed and pest control. Basic business management and marketing along with workplace safety will be interspersed throughout the course as well. Students will have the opportunity to join FFA and to participate in a Supervised Agriculture Experience. This course can fulfill one science credit requirement and is a dual-credit course through SUNY Morrisville. This course is offered on a rotating basis and will be offered in 2027-2028.

Rural Issues & Government aims to provide students with opportunities to become engaged in the political process by acquiring the knowledge and practicing the skills necessary for active citizenship. Rural Issues and Government is an introduction to the basic concepts of the American political process and the rights and responsibilities of citizenship. It will build upon an agricultural economics base with content regarding resource use, planning, public policy, environmental economics, and political science. It will prepare students to be active participants in local government and to make informed decisions. Topics will also include rural job creation, labor markets, growth/agriculture conflicts, and land use management. (A final project including six hours of community service is required.) Students will have the opportunity to participate in the FFA Ag Issues Contest and/or the Youth Institute at Cornell University.