Agribusiness- Animal Science, Certificate

Program Details

Semester 1

• AGS 113 - Survey of the Animal Industry Credits: 3
• AGS 242 - Animal Health Credits: 3
• AGT 120 - Agricultural Appl in Biotech Credits: 3

Semester 2

• AGS 214 - Domestic Animal Physiology Credits: 3
• AGS 319 - Animal Nutrition Credits: 3
• AGB 235 - Intro to Agricultural Markets Credits: 3
• Select one course from Option 1 Credits: 2-3

Total Credits Required to Complete this Certificate - 20*

*Total credits are calculated using the least number of credits needed to satisfy the option requirements.

These credits are applicable to the AAS degree in Agribusiness .

Fixed Costs

Tuition……………………………………………………………………………………..$215.00 per credit

The costs for each program are estimates and subject to change.

Varied Costs

Approximate total for the program: $4,920**

**Program entry requirements are not included in the total approximate cost.

What Kind of Work Will You Do?

• Transfer knowledge on products and their uses to customers.
• Advise livestock producers on the special problems they have and the most economical ways of solving them.
• Perform calculations for cost estimates, tests and formulas.
• Operate and maintain a variety of equipment.
• Perform “housekeeping” chores to keep the work environment neat and orderly.
• Attend conferences and meetings and read various trade publications to keep current on developments in the industry.

What Skills and Abilities Will You Need?

• Operate agricultural equipment.
• Ability to handle livestock in a variety of situations.
• Exhibit good attitude toward the job.
• Work well with customers and other employees.
• Manage, lead and train others.
• Follow verbal and written directions.
• Plan and organize well.
• Use math in figuring enterprise budgets, nutrition formulations and marketing activities.
• Understand technical information about the industry and communicate to others.
• Perform a variety of physically demanding activities such as heavy lifting (50 pounds or more).

What Else Should I Consider about this Specialist Certificate?

• The industry is so broad that students will have the opportunity to participate in the area of most interest.
• The primary purpose of this certificate is for preparation to work in the animal science industry.
• You will often have a lot of responsibility and work with little supervision.
• The work can be dirty, unpleasant at times and sometimes dangerous.
• The field changes rapidly and the job you will have 10 years from now may not exist today.
• You work long hours when necessary including nights, weekends and holidays.
• Average starting salary for those not directly involved in their own entrepreneurial enterprise is approximately $25,000.

Program Competencies

1. Apply knowledge of the food and fiber production system
2. Demonstrate workplace basic skills of communicating, computing, problem-solving, accountability, and display a strong work ethic
3. Evaluate technical information to make agribusiness decisions
4. Demonstrate analytical, critical, and creative thinking to pursue new ideas, acquire new knowledge, and make decisions
5. Engage in industry-recognized organizations and events such as trade shows, conferences, etc. to stay current on issues and technology important to the field
6. Create collaborative relationships and networks and learn to empower, mentor, and influence others
7. Assess short-term plan relevant to career or continued education goals

Nondiscrimination Statement

It is the policy of Des Moines Area Community College not to discriminate in its programs, activities, or employment on the basis of race, color, national origin, creed, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability, genetic information (in employment) and actual or potential parental, family or marital status. Veteran status in educational programs, activities, employment practices, or admission procedures is also included to the extent covered by law.  

If you have questions or complaints related to compliance with this policy, please contact Director, Enterprise Risk Management, 2006 South Ankeny Boulevard, Bldg 22, Ankeny, IA 50023, 515-513-0655, feedback@dmacc.edu or the Director of the Office for Civil Rights, U.S. Department of Education, Cesar E. Chavez Memorial Building, 1244 Speer Boulevard, Suite 310, Denver, CO 80204-3582, Telephone: (303) 844-5695 FAX: (303) 844-4303, TDD 800-877-8339 Email: OCR.Denver@ed.gov ₍₂₀₂₆₎