2024-25 Catalog
Agriculture Production Technology
Agriculture Production Technology - Associate in Applied Science (014)
*SEE UPDATES AND CLARIFICATIONS SECTION IN THE 2024-2025 CATALOG
The Agriculture Production Technology AAS program prepares students to enter employment in production agriculture through farming, farm management, or an allied business. Technical education is provided in crop and livestock production, mechanics skills, and farm business management. Practical, hands-on experience will be emphasized.
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 - 42 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. Prerequisite: None 4 Semester hour(s) Illinois Articulation Initiative (IAI): AG 904 Lecture/Lab Hours 3 lec, /2 lab hours/weekAGR116 - Introduction to 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. Prerequisite: None 4 Semester hour(s) Illinois Articulation Initiative (IAI): AG 902 Lecture/Lab Hours 3 lec,/2 lab hours/weekAGR130 - Intro to Agr Mechanics ( 4 Semester Hours)
This course is designed to provide a 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): AG 906 4 Semester hour(s) Lecture/Lab Hours: 3 lec/2 lab/weekAGR142 - Introduction to Horticulture ( 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. Prerequisite: None 3 Semester hour(s) Illinois Articulation Initiative (IAI): AG905 Lecture/Lab Hours 2 lec, 2 lab/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. Prerequisite: None 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. Prerequisite: None 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. Prerequisite: None 3 Semester hour(s) Lecture/Lab Hours: 3 lec/weekAGR201 - Crop Science ( 4 Semester Hours)
Crop Science introduces the basic principles of plant growth, including human and environmental influences and the theoretical and practical application of agronomic principles to crop production. Includes the historical and economic importance of crop plants for food, feed, and fiber; origin, classification, and geographic distribution of field crops; environmental factors and agronomic problems; crop plant breeding, growth, development, and physiology; cropping systems and practices; seedbed preparation, tillage, and crop establishment; pests and controls; and harvesting, storing, and marketing practices. Prerequisite: None 4 Semester hour(s) Illinois Articulation Initiative (IAI): AG 903 Lecture/Lab Hours 3 lec,/2 lab hours/weekAGR234 - Precision Agr Technology ( 3 Semester Hours)
An introductory course providing an overview of the principles of precision agriculture with a focus on the use of technology within the industry. Course material and discussions will include how technologies such as global navigation satellite systems, agricultural geographic information systems, sensors for the measurement of soil and plant variables, yield monitoring, and variable rate technology are being implemented to inform sub-field level management and farm business decisions. Issues discussed in this course include assessment of agronomic responses, profitability, adaptable cropping practices, and conservation planning. Prerequisite: AGR 109 and AGR 130 3 Semester Hour(s) Lecture/Lab Hours 2 lec/2 lab/week Illinois Articulation Initiative (IAI): AG 907CIS109 - Introduction to Computers ( 3 Semester Hours)
This introductory course consists of the study of computer hardware, software, operating systems, 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 CIS 100-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. Prerequisite: None 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. Prerequisite: None 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, states of matter, solution chemistry including acids, bases and salts, and organic compounds. Depth of coverage is designed to meet the needs for general education physical science requirements. Credit will not be awarded for both CHE 102(3 credits) and CHE 103(4 credits). Prerequisite: None 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)
The oral communication course combines communication theory with the practice of oral communication skills. The 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. Prerequisite: None 3 Semester hour(s) Illinois Articulation Initiative (IAI): C2 900 Lecture/Lab Hours: 3 lec/weekENG101 - Composition I ( 3 Semester Hours)
This course (1) develops awareness of the writing process; (2) provides inventional, organizational, and editorial strategies; (3) stresses the variety of uses for writing; and (4) emphasizes critical skills in reading, thinking, and writing. Prerequisite: Required placement score on approved English placement test, high school unweighted GPA of 3.0 or higher, or a 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: a grade of C or better in MAT 075 or MAT 078 (or higher) OR appropriate placement (see current placement score prerequisite chart) 3 Semester hour(s) Lecture/Lab Hours: 3 lec/weekOR
HIGHER
Internship Requirements - 1 Hours
- IND 250 (1 Semester hr)
SVCC Degree Requirement - 1 Hour
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. Prerequisite: None 1 Semester hour(s) Lecture/Lab Hours: 1 lec/week
Suggested Program
First Semester - 15 Hours
AGR150 - 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. Prerequisite: None 4 Semester hour(s) Lecture/Lab Hours: 4 lec/weekAGR201 - Crop Science ( 4 Semester Hours)
Crop Science introduces the basic principles of plant growth, including human and environmental influences and the theoretical and practical application of agronomic principles to crop production. Includes the historical and economic importance of crop plants for food, feed, and fiber; origin, classification, and geographic distribution of field crops; environmental factors and agronomic problems; crop plant breeding, growth, development, and physiology; cropping systems and practices; seedbed preparation, tillage, and crop establishment; pests and controls; and harvesting, storing, and marketing practices. Prerequisite: None 4 Semester hour(s) Illinois Articulation Initiative (IAI): AG 903 Lecture/Lab Hours 3 lec,/2 lab hours/weekENG101 - Composition I ( 3 Semester Hours)
This course (1) develops awareness of the writing process; (2) provides inventional, organizational, and editorial strategies; (3) stresses the variety of uses for writing; and (4) emphasizes critical skills in reading, thinking, and writing. Prerequisite: Required placement score on approved English placement test, high school unweighted GPA of 3.0 or higher, or a 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. Prerequisite: None 1 Semester hour(s) Lecture/Lab Hours: 1 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: a grade of C or better in MAT 075 or MAT 078 (or higher) OR appropriate placement (see current placement score prerequisite chart) 3 Semester hour(s) Lecture/Lab Hours: 3 lec/weekOR
HIGHER
Second Semester - 15 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. Prerequisite: None 4 Semester hour(s) Illinois Articulation Initiative (IAI): AG 904 Lecture/Lab Hours 3 lec, /2 lab hours/weekAGR130 - Intro to Agr Mechanics ( 4 Semester Hours)
This course is designed to provide a 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): AG 906 4 Semester hour(s) Lecture/Lab Hours: 3 lec/2 lab/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. Prerequisite: None 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, states of matter, solution chemistry including acids, bases and salts, and organic compounds. Depth of coverage is designed to meet the needs for general education physical science requirements. Credit will not be awarded for both CHE 102(3 credits) and CHE 103(4 credits). Prerequisite: None 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/weekCIS109 - Introduction to Computers ( 3 Semester Hours)
This introductory course consists of the study of computer hardware, software, operating systems, 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 CIS 100-Keyboarding 3 Semester hour(s) Illinois Articulation Initiative (IAI): BUS 902 Lecture/Lab Hours: 2 lec, 2 lab/week
Summer - 1 Hours
- IND 250 (1 Semester Hour)
Third Semester - 17 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. Prerequisite: None 4 Semester hour(s) Illinois Articulation Initiative (IAI): BUS 903 Lecture/Lab Hours 4 lec/weekAGR116 - Introduction to 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. Prerequisite: None 4 Semester hour(s) Illinois Articulation Initiative (IAI): AG 902 Lecture/Lab Hours 3 lec,/2 lab hours/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. Prerequisite: None 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. Prerequisite: None 3 Semester hour(s) Lecture/Lab Hours: 3 lec/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. Prerequisite: None 3 Semester hour(s) Lecture/Lab Hours: 2 lec. 2 lab/week
Fourth Semester - 12 Hours
AGR142 - Introduction to Horticulture ( 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. Prerequisite: None 3 Semester hour(s) Illinois Articulation Initiative (IAI): AG905 Lecture/Lab Hours 2 lec, 2 lab/weekAGR234 - Precision Agr Technology ( 3 Semester Hours)
An introductory course providing an overview of the principles of precision agriculture with a focus on the use of technology within the industry. Course material and discussions will include how technologies such as global navigation satellite systems, agricultural geographic information systems, sensors for the measurement of soil and plant variables, yield monitoring, and variable rate technology are being implemented to inform sub-field level management and farm business decisions. Issues discussed in this course include assessment of agronomic responses, profitability, adaptable cropping practices, and conservation planning. Prerequisite: AGR 109 and AGR 130 3 Semester Hour(s) Lecture/Lab Hours 2 lec/2 lab/week Illinois Articulation Initiative (IAI): AG 907COM131 - Intro to Oral Communication ( 3 Semester Hours)
The oral communication course combines communication theory with the practice of oral communication skills. The 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. Prerequisite: None 3 Semester hour(s) Illinois Articulation Initiative (IAI): C2 900 Lecture/Lab Hours: 3 lec/week- Humanities/Fine Arts OR Social/Behavioral Science 3 Semester hour(s)