AGRICULTURE
(Option: Natural Resources Management and Conservation)

Associate in Applied Science (AAS)

Employment with the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Natural Resource Conservation Service (NRCS) is the primary objective of this option. The course of study has been coordinated by representatives of both North Dakota and Montana NRCS. Employment opportunities may exist as either Conservation Professionals or as Conservation Technicians. Local soil and water conservation districts (SWCD) also employ Conservation Technicians.

Cooperative work experience is recommended. The co-op education program places students in a county field office. WSC instructors will supervise this educational experience. Courses are planned for the possibility of students continuing their education beyond two years. Articulation agreements exist for NDSU and DSU, while a strong transfer relationship exists with Montana State University - Bozeman. NRCS normally requires employees to complete baccalaureate degrees. WSC recommends that students considering this option contact the appropriate NRCS State Human Resources Officer prior to selecting course work.

Degree Requirements:

16 credits completed in residence

2.00 (C) grade point average

62 total credits

General Education Requirements:

15 General Education Credits including:

1. 1 class from each of the following 2 areas:

a. Communications

b. Math or Science

2. 1 class from 3 of the following 4 areas:

a. Humanities

b. Social Science

c. Computer Technology

d. Wellness

Program Course Requirements: Credits

H&CE 241 Leadership & Presentation Techniques ................ 3

SOIL 210 Introduction to Soil Science ................................. 4

ARSC 225 Natural Resources and Agro-Ecosystems ........... 3

AGRI 259 Surveying ......................................................... 3

One class from the following list ....................................... 2-3

ARCS 236 Introduction to Range Management .................. 2

PLSC 110 World Food Crops .......................................... 3