Agriculture
Cultivate Your Future
Discover a thriving career in agriculture, where nearly one-fourth of Nebraska's jobs are rooted in this essential industry. Our comprehensive program offers hands-on experience on our student-run 800-acre farm where you will learn practical skills in crop production, livestock management, precision technology and agribusiness. Choose from specialized paths including Agriculture Management & Production, Horticulture & Turfgrass Management, Livestock Management & Production, or earn a Certificate in Precision Agriculture. With access to the latest equipment, five species of livestock and real-world applications, SCC prepares you to efficiently feed the world while mastering sustainable agricultural practices.
PROGRAM GOALS
Master Hands-On Agricultural Skills
You'll develop practical skills in crop production, livestock management and agricultural technology by working directly on our student-run farm.
Apply Precision Agriculture Technologies
You'll use advanced technologies like GPS guidance systems, drones, satellite imagery and data analysis tools to improve farming efficiency.
Develop Specialized Expertise
You'll prepare for specific career paths while learning in-depth knowledge in agribusiness management, crop science, livestock production, horticulture or turfgrass management.
Agriculture Management & Production
A.A.S.
Locations: Beatrice
The Agriculture Management & Production pathway provides a well-rounded understanding of agriculture. You will learn the principles of crop, food and livestock production as well as business concepts, managing records and maintain efficient cash-flow operations.
ESTIMATED TUITION
$10,077
CREDIT HOURS
70
PROGRAM LENGTH
4 Terms
SCHEDULE
Full-Time/Part-Time
STARTING TERM
Fall/Spring
Horticulture & Turfgrass Management
A.A.S.
Locations: Beatrice
The Horticulture & Turfgrass Management pathway teaches you how to identify plants while learning about all aspects of soil management. You will also learn the principles of irrigation and how to build and maintain landscapes.
ESTIMATED TUITION
$9,111
CREDIT HOURS
66
PROGRAM LENGTH
4 Terms
SCHEDULE
Full-Time/Part-Time
STARTING TERM
Fall/Spring
Livestock Management Production
A.A.S.
Locations: Beatrice
The Livestock Management Production program teaches you how to safely, efficiently and profitably care for cattle, sheep, swine, horses and goats through proper nutrition, breeding and animal health practices. You will learn all aspects of the animal’s growth cycle as well as effective range management for year-round forage planning.
ESTIMATED TUITION
$10,124
CREDIT HOURS
70
PROGRAM LENGTH
4 Terms
SCHEDULE
Full-Time/Part-Time
STARTING TERM
Fall/Spring
Precision Agriculture
Diploma / Certificate
Locations: Beatrice
The Precision Agriculture specialization gives you the skills and knowledge in crop and food production to install, set up, operate, analyze and troubleshoot technological systems that maximize yield while minimizing resources. You will gather and use data collected through GPS and GIS systems while learning to operate various tools and systems, including drones.
ESTIMATED TUITION
$4,355 (Diploma) / $1,586 (Certificate)
CREDIT HOURS
32 (Diploma) / 11 (Certificate)
PROGRAM LENGTH
2 terms
SCHEDULE
Full-Time / Part-Time
STARTING TERM
Fall / Spring
Fundamentals of Agriculture
Certificate
Locations: Beatrice / Online / Dual Credit
Fundamentals of Agriculture will give you the chance to explore several areas of Agronomy, Ag Business, Diversified Ag, Horticulture and Livestock career paths. You will also learn about crop and food science, agricultural marketing, agricultural technology and companion animals.
ESTIMATED TUITION
$1,672
CREDIT HOURS
11
PROGRAM LENGTH
2 terms
SCHEDULE
Full-Time / Part-Time
STARTING TERM
Fall / Spring
Agricultural Educator
A.A.S.
Locations: Beatrice
The Agricultural Educator program provides you with an opportunity to expand and grow your agricultural knowledge in order to teach and inspire youth to learn more about the agriculture, food and natural resources industries used to feed the world. You will have the opportunity to transfer to a four-year college to earn a bachelor’s degree in Agriculture Education.
ESTIMATED TUITION
$6,550
CREDIT HOURS
61
PROGRAM LENGTH
4 Terms
SCHEDULE
Full-Time / Part-Time
STARTING TERM
Fall / Spring
WHY SCC?
What kind of hands-on experience will I get in an agriculture program?
You’ll have extensive hands-on training on our 800-acre farm, including a two-hole golf course and greenhouse. This practical approach helps you apply classroom theory to real-world settings in our agriculture program. Approximately 60% of your time will be spent taking responsibility for most aspects of the College's farm operation.
Do agriculture students get work experience before graduating?
If you are in one of our Associate of Applied Science degree programs, you will complete a cooperative experience with employers locally, nationally or internationally based on your interests. This key element helps you transition from school to work, and may lead to a full-time job offer.
What are the class sizes for agriculture programs?
Our Agriculture program limits class size to 20 students which allows you to work side-by-side with our experienced faculty. This creates lasting relationships and a family-like atmosphere that enhances your learning experience.
How does the agriculture program help develop leadership skills?
Our Ag Club organizes community and social events which provide valuable leadership and networking opportunities for you. The club also coordinates service projects, including holiday gift events for local children and supply drives for those impacted by natural disasters in Nebraska.
CAREER OUTCOMES
Farm Manager
Oversee all aspects of running agricultural operations including crop production, livestock care, equipment maintenance, and staff supervision.
Agricultural Technician
Work with farm equipment, precision agriculture technology, and data analysis systems used in modern farming operations.
Livestock Production Specialist
Monitor animal health, nutrition and breeding programs while maximizing production efficiency and profitability.
Next Steps
Program Chair