DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURAL AND INDUSTRIAL SCIENCES

Agriculture Course Descriptions

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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 210 Meeting Management and Parliamentary Procedure. The course is designed for students having an interest in developing their personal leadership and meeting management skills. Topics covered include but are not limited to the study of parliamentary procedures for conducting meetings, agenda development, treasurer and secretary reports, standing and special committee organization and reports, group dynamics, constitution and bylaws development and approval, and officer duties and expectations. Prerequisites: Sophomore. 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. Prerequisite: Any CS or MIS course. (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. Writing enhanced. Prerequisite: ENG 164, 165. (3-0), Credit 3.

AGR 435 Agricultural Biosecurity. The purpose of this course is to study the potential spread and prevalence of contagious organisms, reproductive diseases and contaminants in the agriculture, food, fiber and natural resource industries. Concepts dealing with isolation, resistance, sanitation, containment, transportation, and food safety issues and potential economic impact to the agricultural industry and others are major topics. Prerequisites: AGR 164, BIO 161/111 & BIO 162/112. (3-0), Credit 3.

AGR 464 International Agriculture. An overview of international trade issues, trade imbalances and world food and fiber distribution systems and problems. When offered at the Puebla Field School, students will have the opportunity to tour various sites in Mexico involved with agricultural production and international trade. (3-0), Credit 3.

AGR 471 Agricultural Safety and Health. This course is designed to provide the student with a basic understanding of the hazards and necessary safety precautions associated with the food, fiber, natural resources and agricultural industry. Control strategies will be explored and prevention methods identified. Hazards examined include machinery, livestock, controlled spaces, pesticides, and other issues common to the food, fiber, natural resources and agricultural industry. Prerequisite: Junior. Credit 3.

AGR 488 Principles of Agricultural Leadership and Community Development. Involves study of the characteristics of agricultural leaders, leadership theory, parliamentary procedure, personal development, agricultural youth organizations, organizational structure, community development, and entrepreneurship in agriculture. Writing enhanced. (3-0), Credit 3.

AGR 496 Directed Studies. Arranged professional and developmental learning experiences incorporating a practical application of agricultural skills and practices. To include internships, individual research and industry studies. Writing enhanced. Credit 1-6.

Agricultural Business

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 provides an overview of the various sectors and institutions servicing agriculture. Focus is on the marketing efforts and added value that each sector provides to farm products. The course emphasizes the structure of each area, and the trends that shape their activities. An introduction to marketing activities with emphasis on agricultural commodities is also provided. Writing enhanced. (3-0). Credit 3.

AGR 289 Agribusiness Financial Analysis. Introduction to financial management for agricultural enterprises. Topics include: depreciation, 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. Advanced agribusiness management applications of borrowed capital to operations; methods of determining loan needs for farmers; budgeting incomes to facilitate repayment of loans; cost of using borrowed capital; management of financial resources in agribusiness; and time value of money applications. Prerequisite: AGR 289. (3-0), Credit 3.

AGR 377 Farm and Ranch Management. Focus on planning for the most efficient resource allocation in agricultural operations. This course uses previously taught financial management practices and applies that to an agricultural industry case study. Prerequisite: AGR 367. (3-0), Credit 3.

AGR 385 Agricultural Economic Analysis. This course presents analysis tools from the fields of economics, statistics, and management as they relate to agricultural business decision making. The analytical and quantitative principles are applied to a variety of agricultural business situations. Topics include forecasting, decision analysis, and linear programming. Computer-based methods are emphasized. Prerequisite: STA 169, 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. (3-0), Credit 3.

AGR 461 Agribusiness Organization and Management. Management principles relevant to agribusiness firms: marketing management, ecommerce and value added agriculture, managerial concepts, human resource management, and business organizations. Writing enhanced. Prerequisite: AGR 367. (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. Writing enhanced. Prerequisite: AGR 164. (3-0), Credit 3.

AGR 463 Agricultural Sales and Consulting. This course presents the principles of professional sales techniques used by food and agricultural firms. Necessary skills required in the agribusiness industry such as interpersonal skills, sales techniques, and sales forecasting skills are developed and enhanced. Prerequisite: AGR 164. 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. Writing enhanced. Prerequisites: AGR 164 and 285. (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 461. (3-0) Credit 3.

AGR 477 Economics of Land Use and Planning. This course applies economic principles and legal policy relative to the allocation and conservation of natural resources and the environment. Topics such as land use, energy policy, forestry, fisheries, water rights, animal rights, world food production, and pollution are discussed in an economic and legal framework. Writing enhanced. Prerequisite: AGR 164. (3-0). Credit 3.

AGR 486 Agriculture and Government Programs. This course examines and analyzes the effects of government participation on farmers, ranchers, agribusiness firms and consumers. Topics include the policy making process and the analysis of commodities, conservation, food safety, international trade, rural development programs, and the interrelationship of agriculture and agribusiness. Writing enhanced. Prerequisite: AGR 164. (3-0), Credit 3.

Agricultural Mechanization

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. Prerequisite: AGR 162. (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, and residential and commercial landscape applications. (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. Writing enhanced. (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. Writing enhanced. 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. (2-2), Credit 3.

AGR 487 Agricultural Engines and Tractors. Principles of internal combustion engines; compression, ignition and carburetion; analysis and repair of agricultural tractors and their components. (1-4), Credit 3.

Animal Science

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. Writing enhanced. (3-0), Credit 3. Fall.

AGR 269 Confinement Animal Production. The purpose of this course is to study the principles of confinement animal production. Significant components of the livestock industry have evolved from traditional production systems to full confinement livestock production. The principles of confinement livestock management will be considered including intensive herd management, precise production schedules, herd health, ventilation systems, biosecurity, waste management and building design. Writing enhanced. Prerequisite: AGR 169. (3-0), Credit 3.

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. Prerequisite: AGR 169. (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. Prerequisite: AGR 169. (2-2), Credit 3. Spring.

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. Prerequisite: AGR 169. (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. Prerequisite: AGR 169. (3-0), Credit 3. Spring.

AGR 436 Stocker and Feedlot Management. The course will evaluate the basic principles involved in feeding, management, marketing and disease control of stocker and feedlot cattle for economical production of beef. A review of scientific knowledge and research advances will be applied to modern stocker and feedlot cattle operations. Prerequisites: AGR 169 and AGR 373. Credit 3. The course will evaluate the basic principles involved in feeding, management, marketing and disease control of stocker and feedlot cattle for economical production of beef. A review of scientific knowledge and research advances will be applied to modern stocker and feedlot cattle operations. Prerequisites: AGR 169 and AGR 373. Credit 3.

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. Writing enhanced. Prerequisite: AGR 169. (2-2), Credit 3. Fall; Spring. This course is not intended for animal science majors.

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. Writing enhanced. 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. Writing enhanced. 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. Prerequisite: AGR 169 and 364. (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. Writing enhanced. 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.

Horticulture and Crop Sciences

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, turf grass management, and horticultural therapy. (2-2), Credit 3. This course is not intended for Horticulture and Crop Sciences majors/minors.

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. Writing enhanced. (2-2), Credit 3.

AGR 275 Turfgrass Science. (Prior to Fall 2007 this course was AGR 375.)A study of the major turfgrass 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. Writing enhanced. Prerequisite: AGR 165. (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, ground covers, turf grasses and floriculture crops. Emphasis is placed on temperate region plants. (2-2), Credit 3.

AGR 299 Floral Design. Principles and elements of design illustrated with the use of floral materials; techniques involved in design and construction of floral arrangements; history and utilization of floral art in society. (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. Writing enhanced. (3-0), 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. Prerequisite: CHM 135, 136, 138, or 139. (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. (Effective Fall 2007 this course will be AGR 275.)A study of the major turfgrass 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. Writing enhanced. Prerequisite: AGR 165. (2-2). Credit 3.

AGR 379 Turfgrass Culture. Principles of sexual and asexual propagation of major turf species, soils and rooting media, nutrient management, irrigation, pest control, and selection of appropriate cultivars are covered in this course. Students attend two hours of class and two hours of laboratory each week. Prerequisite: AGR 275. Credit 3. Principles of sexual and asexual propagation of major turf species, soils and rooting media, nutrient management, irrigation, pest control, and selection of appropriate cultivars are covered in this course. Students attend two hours of class and two hours of laboratory each week. Prerequisite: AGR 275. 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. Writing enhanced. 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. Writing enhanced. (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. Writing enhanced. Prerequisites: AGR 344 or concurrent enrollment. (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. Writing enhanced. (2-2), Credit 3.

AGR 472 Sports Turf Management. Facility design and construction, water management, soil modification, and unique management practices commonly applied to golf courses and other sports turfs will be covered. Management of budgets, personnel, equipment maintenance and irrigation scheduling are also covered. Two hours of class and two hours of laboratory each week. Prerequisites: AGR 275 and AGR 379. 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. Prerequisite: AGR 169. (3-0), Credit 3.

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. Writing enhanced. Prerequisite: AGR 165. (3-0), Credit 3.

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