2020-21 Catalog (Archived Catalog)
Agriculture Production Technology
Agriculture Production Technology - Associate in Applied Science (014)
The Agriculture Production Technology AAS program prepares students to enter employment in production agriculture through farming and farm management. Technical education is provided in crop and livestock production, mechanics skills, and farm business management.
Work and Employment
This program prepares students to enter employment in production agriculture through farming and farm management.Technical education is provided in crop and livestock production, mechanics skills, and farm business management.
Follow this link for career information.
Program Contacts at Sauk Valley Community College
- Academic Advising, 815-835-6354
- Kevin M. Larsen, Assistant Professor of Agriculture, 815-835-6279
Total Hours Required - 60 Hours
Major Field Requirements - 35 Hours
AGR109 - Soil Science ( 4 Semester Hours)
An introduction to the chemical, physical, and biological properties of soils; the origin, classification, and distribution of soils and their influence on people and food production; the management and conservation of soils; and the environmental impact of soil use. 4 Semester hour(s) Illinois Articulation Initiative (IAI): AG904 Lecture/Lab Hours 3 lec, /2 lab hours/weekAGR116 - Animal Science ( 4 Semester Hours)
The application of the sciences of genetics, physiology and nutrition to the improvement of the animal industries and an introduction to management and production practices. Includes animal breeds, breeding and selection, products and marketing; production technology and economics; animal behavior; and current issues in animal science. 4 Semester hour(s) Illinois Articulation Initiative (IAI): AG902 Lecture/Lab Hours 3 lec,/2 lab hours/weekAGR130 - Intro to Agr Mechanics ( 4 Semester Hours)
An introduction to agricultural power (engines, hydraulics, calibrations, and agricultural equipment), agricultural electrification and applications (circuits, motors, and controls), agricultural structures (plans, loads, construction materials and layout and design), metal fabrication and soil and water conservation (surveying, mapping, drainage and conservation structures). Prerequisite: None Illinois Articulation Initiative (IAI): AG906 4 Semester hour(s) Lecture/Lab Hours: 3 lec/2 lab/weekAGR142 - Prin of Ornamental Horticultur ( 3 Semester Hours)
This course is an introduction to the principles and practices in the development, production and use of horticultural crops (fruits, vegetables, greenhouse, turf, nursery, floral and landscape). Includes the classification, structure, growth and development, and environmental influences on horticultural plants; horticultural technology; and an introduction to the horticultural industries. 3 Semester hour(s) Lecture/Lab Hours 3 lec/weekAGR150 - Intro to Ag Bus Management ( 4 Semester Hours)
Organization and structure of agricultural businesses; resource evaluation, policy development and implementation, functions of management, and laws and taxes that affect business. 4 Semester hour(s) Lecture/Lab Hours: 4 lec/weekAGR155 - Intro to AG Marketing & Stds ( 3 Semester Hours)
Survey of approaches to marketing agricultural products; implications for the producer, consumer, processor, and government; use of grain grading and standardization equipment. 3 Semester hour(s) Lecture/Lab Hours: 3 lec/weekAGR199 - Ag Issues & Perceptions ( 3 Semester Hours)
This course is designed to increase the understanding, awareness, and critical analysis of today's top agricultural issues and their impact upon the social, political, economic, and cultural aspects of society. Agricultural issues include, but are not limited to: environment, animal welfare, crop production, biotechnology, trade and policy, water quality and a changing consumer attitude towards agriculture and food production. Students will be able to discuss and inform on topics both in a written and oral format after competition of course. Course is designed to include weekly on-line readings, weekly discussion board postings, and viewing of topic videos and/or expert testimony videos. Prerequisite: None 3 Semester hour(s) Lecture/Lab Hours: 3 lec/weekAGR201 - Plant Science ( 4 Semester Hours)
This introductory course covers the basic principles of plant growth including human and environmental influences and the theoretical and practical application of agronomic principles to crop production. 4 Semester hour(s) Illinois Articulation Initiative (IAI): AG903 Lecture/Lab Hours 3 lec,/2 lab hours/weekCIS109 - Introduction to Computers ( 3 Semester Hours)
This introductory course consists of the study of computer hardware, software, operating systems and communications, networking, Internet, systems and program development life cycles and their role in business decision making. The use of Internet, multimedia, security, and ethics will be emphasized throughout the course. In addition, laboratory experience will be gained with a survey of Microsoft Windows and business computer software applications programs in word processing, electronic spreadsheets, database management, presentation graphics, and Internet. Prerequisite: None. Students having no experience with computers are encouraged to first take OAS 103-Keyboarding. 3 Semester hour(s) Illinois Articulation Initiative (IAI): BUS 902 Lecture/Lab Hours: 2 lec, 2 lab/weekUAS101 - Intro to Unmanned Aircraft Sys ( 3 Semester Hours)
An introduction to small unmanned aircraft systems (sUAS) and preparation for the FAA's Part 107 (Remote Pilot) exam. This course does not require previous experience with remote-controlled aircraft. Safety, control, and basic maneuvers are key elements. Quadcopters are the focus with particular attention to their use in agricultural business. 3 Semester hour(s) Lecture/Lab Hours: 2 lec. 2 lab/week
General Education Requirements - 16 Hours
- Humanities/Fine Arts OR Social/Behavioral Science 3 Semester hour(s)
BIO103 - Introductory Biology ( 4 Semester Hours)
An introduction to fundamental principles of biology including: nature of science, basic chemistry, the organization, structure and function of organisms, cell division, reproduction, genetics, evolution and ecology. The course is designed for the student with minimal science background. This course will satisfy science requirements for A.A., A.S. transfer, and A.A.S. degree students. (For non-science majors.) Credit will not be awarded for both BIO 103 and BIO 104. 4 Semester hour(s) Illinois Articulation Initiative (IAI): L1 900L Lecture/Lab Hours 3 lec, 2 lab/weekOR
CHE103 - Introduction to Chemistry ( 4 Semester Hours)
A one semester general survey covering basic chemistry principles including topics in organic chemistry. In particular, emphasizing electronic structure and periodic law, chemical bonding, stoichiometry, chemical reactions and calculations, acids, bases, salts, and organic compounds. Depth of coverage is designed to meet the needs for the general education requirement and of students in areas such as nursing, home economics, and allied health. Credit will not be awarded for both CHE 102(3 credits) and CHE 103(4 credits). 4 Semester hour(s) Illinois Articulation Initiative (IAI): P1 902L Lecture/Lab Hours: 3 lec, 2 lab/weekOR
PHY175 - Introduction to Physics ( 4 Semester Hours)
Basic concepts of physics including units in mechanics, sound, optics, electricity, magnetism and Bohr theory; to build an organized body of knowledge relating to physical phenomena encountered in the student's life. Designed to meet the laboratory requirements for non-science majors and students in elementary education. Prerequisite: ELT 120; or MAT 078, MAT 081, MAT 106, or higher; or 2 years of high school algebra with a grade of “C” or higher; or appropriate mathematics placement score. 4 Semester hour(s) Illinois Articulation Initiative (IAI): P1 900L Lecture/Lab Hours: 3 lec, 2 lab/weekCOM131 - Intro to Oral Communication ( 3 Semester Hours)
This course combines communication theory with the practice of oral communication skills. This course: (1) develops awareness of the communication process; (2) provides inventional, organizational, and expressive strategies; (3) promotes understanding of and adaptation to a variety of communication contexts; and (4) emphasizes critical skills in listening, reading, thinking, and speaking. 3 Semester hour(s) Illinois Articulation Initiative (IAI): C2900 Lecture/Lab Hours: 3 lec/weekENG101 - Composition I ( 3 Semester Hours)
A basic course in essay writing with emphasis on exposition, ENG 101 stresses knowledge and application of the rhetorical modes. ENG 101 presupposes competence in grammar, usage, and mechanics. Prerequisite: ACT standard score in English of 22 or above; required scores on the current English placement test, or grade of C or higher in ELA 099. 3 Semester hour(s) Illinois Articulation Initiative (IAI): C1 900 Lecture/Lab Hours: 3 lec/weekMAT106 - Applied Mathematics ( 3 Semester Hours)
Applied mathematics is a fundamental course for students in technical and career programs. The course includes fundamental mathematics, algebra, geometry, right triangle trigonometry, business mathematics, and statistical concepts which are applied to the solution of practical problems. Scientific notation, metrics and use of the calculator are also covered. Prerequisite: MAT 075 with a grade of C or higher or appropriate placement score, or one year of high school algebra with grade of C or higher, or High School Math 1 with grade of C or higher. 3 Semester hour(s) Lecture/Lab Hours: 3 lec/weekOR
HIGHER
Internship Requirements - 1 Hours
IND250 - Industrial Internship ( 1-3 Semester Hours)
Participation in a work experience in an area of technology under supervision of both the college and an employer. Internship objectives will be identified for each student enrolled Prerequisite: Twelve semester hours in major field and consent of instructor. 1-2-3 Semester hour(s) Repeatable: This course is repeatable three times for a maximum of twelve credits. Lecture/Lab Hours: 5-10-15 hours internship/week
SVCC Degree Requirement
FYE101 - First Year Experience ( 1 Semester Hours)
The focus of this course is how to be successful in college. Study skills, goal setting, academic planning, time and money management, and information research skills are among the core topics included in this course. Within a supportive environment, students will share their college experiences and develop connections with fellow students and SVCC staff. 1 Semester hour(s) Lecture/Lab Hours: 1 lec/week
Electives-select 7 sem/hrs from below - 7 Hours
ACC101 - Financial Accounting ( 4 Semester Hours)
This course presents accounting as an information system that produces summary financial statements, primarily for users external to a business enterprise organized as a corporation. Students study the forms of business organization and the common transactions entered into by businesses. The emphasis is on understanding and applying basic accounting principles and other concepts that guide the reporting of the effect of transactions and other economic events on the financial condition and operating results of a corporation. The procedures of how to analyze and interpret historical financial statements, as well, and the limitations of using these in making forward-looking business decisions is included. The primary content emphasis will be accounting for current assets and liabilities, long-term assets and liabilities, corporations, cash flow statements, and financial statement analyses. 4 Semester hour(s) Illinois Articulation Initiative (IAI): BUS 903 Lecture/Lab Hours 4 lec/weekAGR102 - Intro to Agricultural Econ ( 4 Semester Hours)
An introduction to the principles of economics including production principles; production costs, supply and revenue; profit maximization; consumption and demand; price elasticity; market price determination; and competitive versus noncompetitive market models. These principles are applied to agriculture and the role of agriculture in the United States and world economies. Other topics include a survey of the world food situation; natural, human and capital resources; commodity product marketing; and agricultural problems and policies. 4 Semester hour(s) Illinois Articulation Initiative (IAI): AG 901 Lecture/Lab Hours: 4 lec/weekAGR160 - Agricultural Salesmanship ( 3 Semester Hours)
The course provides an introduction to the basic principles underlying the sales process in agricultural farm supply and practical application and development of sales techniques. Basic to the course is an understanding of the salesperson's obligation to self, his or her company, and his or her customer. 3 Semester hour(s) Lecture/Lab Hours: 3 lec/weekBIO120 - Environmental Health ( 3 Semester Hours)
An examination of the environmental effects on human physiological systems, resulting in diverse problems such as heart disease, cancer, and other health related concerns. This course is designed to assist the student in making informed, responsible decisions affecting personal and environmental wellness. 3 Semester hour(s) Lecture/Lab Hours: 3 lec/weekBIO140 - Environmental Biology ( 3 Semester Hours)
This course concentrates on critical thinking needed to evaluate contemporary environmental issues with the goal of helping students make informed decisions. Basic biology, chemistry, geology and ecological concepts including biogeochemical cycles, population growth, biodiversity and evolution will be tied to environmental topics such as human overpopulation, climate change, pollution, natural resource use and alternate energy sources. 3 Semester hour(s) Illinois Articulation Initiative (IAI): L1 905 Lecture/Lab Hours: 3 lec/weekCIS220 - Computer Accounting ( 2 Semester Hours)
This course covers small business accounting using computer software. Topics include creating a chart of accounts, recording customer and vendor transactions, processing payroll, and printing reports. In addition, setting up a new company is covered as well as advanced topics such as exporting to spreadsheet software and using the computer software audit trail. Prerequisite: None. Recommend OAS 103 or CIS 109 and ACC 101. 2 Semester hour(s) Lecture/Lab Hours: 1 lec, 2 lab/weekELT120 - Fund of Elec w/ Applied Math ( 3 Semester Hours)
This course provides basic electricity fundamentals, basic control strategies and electrical symbols. The class will provide the student with an understanding of basic electrical theory, schematic and wiring diagram symbols, motor theory, wiring and electrical troubleshooting. Conventional current will be used to define current flow. Applied mathematical concepts are incorporated into the course as required for successful understanding of objectives. 3 Semester hour(s) Lecture/Lab Hours: 2 lec, 2 lab/weekELT259 - Industrial & Agric Wiring ( 3 Semester Hours)
This course is a study of industrial and agricultural electrical systems. Emphasis will be placed on installation and troubleshooting of motor and electrical distributions. Prerequisite: ELT 120 or EET 107 3 Semester hour(s) Lecture/Lab Hours: 2 lec, 2 lab/weekIND118 - Mechanical Systems ( 3 Semester Hours)
The course will contain all information needed for a maintenance technician to successfully perform at a high level in their job. The course material will cover mechanical systems focusing on analysis of mechanical components, their relationships to each other, and failure prediction. General rigging will also be covered. Prerequisite: EET 107 (may be taken concurrently) or ELT 120 (may be taken concurrently). 3 Semester hour(s) Lecture/Lab Hours: 2 lec, 2 lab/weekIND218 - Fluid Power ( 3 Semester Hours)
This course will combine the operating fundamentals of hydraulic and pneumatic controls and operations. Students will read and interpret prints using proper symbols and documentation. Students will be able to design and assemble a complete fluid power system using the correct calculations for proper sizing of equipment. Prerequisite: ELT 120 3 Semester hour(s) Lecture/Lab Hours: 2 lec, 2 lab/weekWLD102 - Shielded Metal Arc Welding ( 3 Semester Hours)
This course introduces the fundamental theory, safety practices, equipment, and techniques required for shielded metal arc welding (SMAW) in the flat, horizontal, vertical, and overhead positions. Qualification tests in flat, horizontal, vertical and overhead positions are used in the evaluation of student progress toward making industrial standard welds. 3 Semester hour(s) Lecture/Lab Hours: 2 lec, 2 lab/weekWLD106 - Welding Fundamentals ( 2 Semester Hours)
This course is designed to provide students with a thorough understanding of the basics of Metal Inert Gas (MIG) arc welding fundamentals, also referred to as Gas Metal Arc Welding (GMAW) and stick welding, also referred to as Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW) including the following topics: welding safety, power sources, and wire feeders, machine set up, adjustment and maintenance, identification of welding defects and quality welds, and welding techniques. Training to develop the manual skills necessary to make high quality MIG and SMAW welds is included with emphasis placed in the areas of various joint configurations, single pass, multiple pass, fillet, groove, overlap welds in a flat position. Oxyacetylene cutting equipment setup and safety will also be emphasized. 2 Semester hour(s) Lecture/Lab Hours: 1 lec, 2 lab/week
Suggested Program
First Semester - 15 Hours
AGR116 - Animal Science ( 4 Semester Hours)
The application of the sciences of genetics, physiology and nutrition to the improvement of the animal industries and an introduction to management and production practices. Includes animal breeds, breeding and selection, products and marketing; production technology and economics; animal behavior; and current issues in animal science. 4 Semester hour(s) Illinois Articulation Initiative (IAI): AG902 Lecture/Lab Hours 3 lec,/2 lab hours/weekAGR150 - Intro to Ag Bus Management ( 4 Semester Hours)
Organization and structure of agricultural businesses; resource evaluation, policy development and implementation, functions of management, and laws and taxes that affect business. 4 Semester hour(s) Lecture/Lab Hours: 4 lec/weekCIS109 - Introduction to Computers ( 3 Semester Hours)
This introductory course consists of the study of computer hardware, software, operating systems and communications, networking, Internet, systems and program development life cycles and their role in business decision making. The use of Internet, multimedia, security, and ethics will be emphasized throughout the course. In addition, laboratory experience will be gained with a survey of Microsoft Windows and business computer software applications programs in word processing, electronic spreadsheets, database management, presentation graphics, and Internet. Prerequisite: None. Students having no experience with computers are encouraged to first take OAS 103-Keyboarding. 3 Semester hour(s) Illinois Articulation Initiative (IAI): BUS 902 Lecture/Lab Hours: 2 lec, 2 lab/weekENG101 - Composition I ( 3 Semester Hours)
A basic course in essay writing with emphasis on exposition, ENG 101 stresses knowledge and application of the rhetorical modes. ENG 101 presupposes competence in grammar, usage, and mechanics. Prerequisite: ACT standard score in English of 22 or above; required scores on the current English placement test, or grade of C or higher in ELA 099. 3 Semester hour(s) Illinois Articulation Initiative (IAI): C1 900 Lecture/Lab Hours: 3 lec/weekFYE101 - First Year Experience ( 1 Semester Hours)
The focus of this course is how to be successful in college. Study skills, goal setting, academic planning, time and money management, and information research skills are among the core topics included in this course. Within a supportive environment, students will share their college experiences and develop connections with fellow students and SVCC staff. 1 Semester hour(s) Lecture/Lab Hours: 1 lec/week
Second Semester - 15 Hours
- Electives 4 Semester Hour(s)
AGR109 - Soil Science ( 4 Semester Hours)
An introduction to the chemical, physical, and biological properties of soils; the origin, classification, and distribution of soils and their influence on people and food production; the management and conservation of soils; and the environmental impact of soil use. 4 Semester hour(s) Illinois Articulation Initiative (IAI): AG904 Lecture/Lab Hours 3 lec, /2 lab hours/weekBIO103 - Introductory Biology ( 4 Semester Hours)
An introduction to fundamental principles of biology including: nature of science, basic chemistry, the organization, structure and function of organisms, cell division, reproduction, genetics, evolution and ecology. The course is designed for the student with minimal science background. This course will satisfy science requirements for A.A., A.S. transfer, and A.A.S. degree students. (For non-science majors.) Credit will not be awarded for both BIO 103 and BIO 104. 4 Semester hour(s) Illinois Articulation Initiative (IAI): L1 900L Lecture/Lab Hours 3 lec, 2 lab/weekOR
CHE103 - Introduction to Chemistry ( 4 Semester Hours)
A one semester general survey covering basic chemistry principles including topics in organic chemistry. In particular, emphasizing electronic structure and periodic law, chemical bonding, stoichiometry, chemical reactions and calculations, acids, bases, salts, and organic compounds. Depth of coverage is designed to meet the needs for the general education requirement and of students in areas such as nursing, home economics, and allied health. Credit will not be awarded for both CHE 102(3 credits) and CHE 103(4 credits). 4 Semester hour(s) Illinois Articulation Initiative (IAI): P1 902L Lecture/Lab Hours: 3 lec, 2 lab/weekOR
PHY175 - Introduction to Physics ( 4 Semester Hours)
Basic concepts of physics including units in mechanics, sound, optics, electricity, magnetism and Bohr theory; to build an organized body of knowledge relating to physical phenomena encountered in the student's life. Designed to meet the laboratory requirements for non-science majors and students in elementary education. Prerequisite: ELT 120; or MAT 078, MAT 081, MAT 106, or higher; or 2 years of high school algebra with a grade of “C” or higher; or appropriate mathematics placement score. 4 Semester hour(s) Illinois Articulation Initiative (IAI): P1 900L Lecture/Lab Hours: 3 lec, 2 lab/weekMAT106 - Applied Mathematics ( 3 Semester Hours)
Applied mathematics is a fundamental course for students in technical and career programs. The course includes fundamental mathematics, algebra, geometry, right triangle trigonometry, business mathematics, and statistical concepts which are applied to the solution of practical problems. Scientific notation, metrics and use of the calculator are also covered. Prerequisite: MAT 075 with a grade of C or higher or appropriate placement score, or one year of high school algebra with grade of C or higher, or High School Math 1 with grade of C or higher. 3 Semester hour(s) Lecture/Lab Hours: 3 lec/weekOR
HIGHER
Third Semester - 16 Hours
- Electives 3 Semester hour(s)
AGR155 - Intro to AG Marketing & Stds ( 3 Semester Hours)
Survey of approaches to marketing agricultural products; implications for the producer, consumer, processor, and government; use of grain grading and standardization equipment. 3 Semester hour(s) Lecture/Lab Hours: 3 lec/weekAGR199 - Ag Issues & Perceptions ( 3 Semester Hours)
This course is designed to increase the understanding, awareness, and critical analysis of today's top agricultural issues and their impact upon the social, political, economic, and cultural aspects of society. Agricultural issues include, but are not limited to: environment, animal welfare, crop production, biotechnology, trade and policy, water quality and a changing consumer attitude towards agriculture and food production. Students will be able to discuss and inform on topics both in a written and oral format after competition of course. Course is designed to include weekly on-line readings, weekly discussion board postings, and viewing of topic videos and/or expert testimony videos. Prerequisite: None 3 Semester hour(s) Lecture/Lab Hours: 3 lec/weekAGR201 - Plant Science ( 4 Semester Hours)
This introductory course covers the basic principles of plant growth including human and environmental influences and the theoretical and practical application of agronomic principles to crop production. 4 Semester hour(s) Illinois Articulation Initiative (IAI): AG903 Lecture/Lab Hours 3 lec,/2 lab hours/weekUAS101 - Intro to Unmanned Aircraft Sys ( 3 Semester Hours)
An introduction to small unmanned aircraft systems (sUAS) and preparation for the FAA's Part 107 (Remote Pilot) exam. This course does not require previous experience with remote-controlled aircraft. Safety, control, and basic maneuvers are key elements. Quadcopters are the focus with particular attention to their use in agricultural business. 3 Semester hour(s) Lecture/Lab Hours: 2 lec. 2 lab/week
Fourth Semester - 14 Hours
- Humanities/Fine Arts OR Social/Behavioral Science 3 Semester hour(s)
AGR130 - Intro to Agr Mechanics ( 4 Semester Hours)
An introduction to agricultural power (engines, hydraulics, calibrations, and agricultural equipment), agricultural electrification and applications (circuits, motors, and controls), agricultural structures (plans, loads, construction materials and layout and design), metal fabrication and soil and water conservation (surveying, mapping, drainage and conservation structures). Prerequisite: None Illinois Articulation Initiative (IAI): AG906 4 Semester hour(s) Lecture/Lab Hours: 3 lec/2 lab/weekAGR142 - Prin of Ornamental Horticultur ( 3 Semester Hours)
This course is an introduction to the principles and practices in the development, production and use of horticultural crops (fruits, vegetables, greenhouse, turf, nursery, floral and landscape). Includes the classification, structure, growth and development, and environmental influences on horticultural plants; horticultural technology; and an introduction to the horticultural industries. 3 Semester hour(s) Lecture/Lab Hours 3 lec/weekCOM131 - Intro to Oral Communication ( 3 Semester Hours)
This course combines communication theory with the practice of oral communication skills. This course: (1) develops awareness of the communication process; (2) provides inventional, organizational, and expressive strategies; (3) promotes understanding of and adaptation to a variety of communication contexts; and (4) emphasizes critical skills in listening, reading, thinking, and speaking. 3 Semester hour(s) Illinois Articulation Initiative (IAI): C2900 Lecture/Lab Hours: 3 lec/weekIND250 - Industrial Internship ( 1-3 Semester Hours)
Participation in a work experience in an area of technology under supervision of both the college and an employer. Internship objectives will be identified for each student enrolled Prerequisite: Twelve semester hours in major field and consent of instructor. 1-2-3 Semester hour(s) Repeatable: This course is repeatable three times for a maximum of twelve credits. Lecture/Lab Hours: 5-10-15 hours internship/week