Institute of Applied Agriculture

Course Descriptions

 

The following course listings were updated in June 2006. Please see your advisor to confirm which current course offerings are required for your program option. Please check with your advisor to confirm which current course offerings are required for your major.

Agribusiness Management

Equine Business Management

Ornamental Horticulture 

Landscape Management

Turfgrass Management  

Golf Course Management

ANSC 101

Introduction to Animal Science

3 credits

A comprehensive course, including the development of animal science, its contributions to the economy, characteristics of animal products, factors of efficient and economical production and distribution.

ANSC 230

Equine Science

3 credits

For students who intend to be involved in the care and management of horses. The principles of nutrition, anatomy, physiology, health and disease, growth, locomotion and management techniques are emphasized.

Prerequisite: ANSC 101.

ANSC 232

Horse Management

3 credits

The course is for students who intend to own horses and/or manage a horse facility. Principles of facility planning, business management, horse behavior and training, health, feeding, and reproduction are emphasized.

ANSC 234

Equine Nutrition

3 credits

This course provides the fundamentals of equine nutrition and management from feed ingredient selection to individual nutrient requirements. Topics include nutrition of all classes of horses, as well as feeds, feeding, and feed quality.


ENBE 200

Fundamentals of Agricultural Mechanics

3 credits

This course is a study of hand tools and power shop equipment as they relate to mechanized agriculture in arc welding, oxyacetylene welding and cutting, hot and cold metal working, plumbing, electricity, tool fitting, wood working, sketching and drawing, and interpretation of plans for the completion of skill development exercises. Emphasis is upon the development of orderly, safe shop procedures and manual skill development.


INAG 100

Introduction to Plant Science

3 credits

General introduction to plant growth and development. Emphasis is on the physiology, morphology, genetics and ecology of higher plants.
(2 hours of lecture and 2 hours of laboratory per week)

INAG 101

Computer Applications

3 credits

An up-to-date introduction to the use of computers on campus and in the agricultural industry. Exposure will be given to operating systems, storage media, networking, multimedia, and current hardware. Hands-on applications with computers will cover Windows Operating system, word processing, spreadsheets, databases, and networking.
(2 hours of lecture and 2 hours of laboratory per week)

INAG 102

Business Operations

3 credits

Business Operations introduces the student to basic principles and procedures of a profitable small business. This course will emphasize the role of the entrepreneur in a dynamic economy, focusing on management, operations, organization, and financing the small business.

INAG 103

Agricultural Marketing

3 credits

Principles of market demand are used to develop a consumer oriented market strategy for the agricultural business. Topics include market structures, target marketing, market segmentation, niche marketing and direct marketing. Market concepts unique to agricultural products are also covered.

INAG 104

Agricultural Mathematics

3 credits

The development of problem-solving skills often used in the everyday world of work. Problems involving soils, fertilizers, seeding rates, feed mixtures and business finance. Development of mathematical skills in solving basic equations, the use of percents and ratios and calculating various linear and cubic measurements.

INAG 105

Soils and Fertilizers

3 credits

Soils and Fertilizers is an introductory course for students entering careers related to applied agricultural production. The course is divided into the three subject areas of soil properties, soil fertility and environmental concerns of using soils for agricultural production. Emphasis is placed upon the characteristics of Maryland soils which are similar to the soils in the mid Atlantic region. The importance of nutrient management and non point source pollution of the Chesapeake Bay are covered in the course.
(2 hours of lecture and 2 hours of laboratory per week)

INAG 106

Pesticide Use and Safety

2 credits

An overview of pesticide use and safety is covered. Topics include environmental protection, labeling, personal safety, first aid, formulation and chemistry, equipment, disposal, storage, record-keeping and liability. This course will also prepare a student to take the Maryland test for a private applicator's license.

INAG 107

Turfgrass Management

4 credits

Identification, characteristics, adaptability and establishment of grass species for turf use. Introduction to management practices involving fertilization, irrigation and mowing will be covered. The major weed pests of turfgrasses in Maryland will be reviewed.
(3 hours of lecture and 2 hours of laboratory per week)

INAG 110

Oral Communication

3 credits

The course provides skill training in public speaking, group dynamics, problem solving, leadership, listening and conflict resolution. Perception, persuasion, and interpersonal communication are also discussed.

INAG 111

Written Communication

3 credits

The fundamentals of written business communication are analyzed and applied. The course reviews basic English mechanics and requires students to write business letters, memos, press releases and reports. Students are expected to know word processing or to learn it outside of class.

INAG 114

Plant Propagation

3 credits

The theory and practical techniques of plant propagation. Methods covered include propagation by seed, fern spores, cuttings, layering, grafting and tissue culturing. Commercial propagation techniques are stressed.
(2 hours of lecture and 2 hours of laboratory per week)

INAG 115

Horse Management Practicum

1 credit

One three-hour laboratory. Introduction to basic horsemanship for students with little or not horse experience. Students will learn and practice barn care skills including feeding and cleaning. Particular emphasis will be given to safety as students learn basic horse handling skills on the ground and when mounted. Admission by approval only. Recommended for first semester. Grading method: pass/fail. This course may be waived if student demonstrates and/or documents horsemanship proficiency to the satisfaction of instructor. Students are permitted to take this course only once.
(3 hours of laboratory per week)

INAG 116

Pasture Management and Hay Production

2 credits

Students learn skills necessary to manage pasture and hay crops. Course includes training for species selection, fertilization/nutrient management, quality factors, equipment selection, hay-making techniques and grazing management. One or two Saturday laboratory sessions will be required, dates to be determined by availability of students and instructor.
(1 hour of lecture and 2 hours of laboratory per week)

ANSC 234/INAG 117

Equine Nutrition

3 credits

This course provides the fundamentals of equine nutrition and management from feed ingredient selection to individual nutrient requirements. Topics include nutrition of all classes of horses, as well as feeds, feeding, and feed quality.

INAG 120

Equine Health Management

3 credits

Fundamentals of equine health care as practiced by non-veterinarians in routine stable management. Includes, but is not limited to, disease identification, medications, hoof care, vaccinations, minor injury care, and the veterinarian/client relationship.
(2 hours of lecture and 2 hours of laboratory per week)

INAG 129

Special Problem in Agricultural Economics

1 credit

Prerequisite - approval of instructor. A detailed study, including a written report, involving an important problem in agricultural economics. A maximum of two credit hours of special problems may be applied toward graduation.

INAG 139

Special Problem in Agricultural Engineering

1 credit

Prerequisite - approval of instructor. A detailed study, including a written report involving an important problem in agricultural engineering. A maximum of two credit hours of special problems may be applied toward graduation.

INAG 149

Special Problem in Agronomy

1 credit

Prerequisite - approval of instructor. A detailed study including a written report involving an important problem in agronomy. A maximum of two credit hours of special problems may be applied toward graduation.

INAG 159

Special Problem in Animal Science

1 credit

Prerequisite - approval of instructor. A detailed study, including a written report involving a problem in animal science to be agreed upon by student and instructor. A maximum of two credit hours of special problems may be applied toward graduation.

INAG 169

Special Problem in Communication

1 credit

Prerequisite - approval of instructor. Student designs a project centered on a communication problem, issue or principle. A maximum of two credit hours of special problems may be applied toward graduation.

INAG 179

Special Problem in Horticulture

1 credit

Prerequisite - approval of the instructor. A detailed study, including a written report involving an important problem in horticulture. A maximum of two credit hours of special problems may be applied toward graduation.  

INAG 201

Personnel Management

3 credits

The course introduces students to the study and application of basic principles of human relations and personnel management. A variety of approaches to recruiting, training, delegating, motivating, and appraising employees are among the topics discussed.

INAG 202

Farm Management

3 credits

An advanced study of farm management decision-making for farm profitability. The course will develop decision-making skills for farm planning, budgeting, and enterprise selection. Cost analysis, partial budgeting and principles of profitable decision-making are examined in terms of land resource, livestock, crop and machinery management. Basic skills of farm accounting and tax management will also be included in the course study.

INAG 203

Introduction to Finance

3 credits

The course is designed to introduce the student to the principles used in the financial management for a business. Topics covered in the course include the costs associated with borrowed funds, sources of obtaining capital, analysis of financial statements, real estate purchase and finance. In addition, the financial markets are studied from the perspective of their impact upon the small business entrepreneur.

INAG 204

Business Management

3 credits

Business Management is a course that is concerned with the successful management of a small business. The course concentrates on the development of management skills for profitable decision making. The course is divided into subject areas of business management, basic accounting skills, preparing a business plan, and small business taxes.

INAG 205

Analyzing Alternative Enterprizes

3 credits

The course identifies and analyzes alternative crops, livestock and other business enterprises. Students will assess sustainability, geographical adaptability and potential profitability of businesses. Topics vary and may include value added approaches, organic crop production, and recreational agricultural pursuits.

INAG 206

Business Law

3 credits

Basic laws of contract, bailment, and laws affecting negotiable instruments. Consideration of uniform commercial code as applied to business relationships. General introduction to the legal process.

INAG 207

Power and Machinery

3 credits

The basic principles of management, selection, maintenance, operation, adjustment and troubleshooting of agricultural machinery and power units will be studied. How power is developed, transmitted through systems, both mechanical and hydraulic will be studied. A systematic disassembly, analysis, diagnosis and reassembly of a small engine will be completed by each student. Prerequisite--ENBE 200 Fundamentals of Ag Mechanics. Prerequisite or corequisite--INAG 101 Computer Applications
(2 hours of lecture and 2 hours of laboratory per week)

INAG 208

Seminar in Animal Science

1 credit

The nature and direction of the seminar is varied to fit the interests of those enrolled. May include investigation, papers, reports, guest speakers and other projects. A maximum of two seminar credit hours may be applied toward graduation.

INAG 213

Crop Production Practices

3 credits

The crop production practices course is concerned with the applied methods of producing grain and forage crops in Maryland. The course emphasizes maximum economic yields that are consistent with the principles of sound nutrient management. Integrated pest control strategies, crop rotations and comprehensive cropping systems are components of the course.

INAG 214

Golf Course Management I

3 credits

An in-depth study of golf course management practices, including fertilization and pest control programs, mowing, irrigation and other cultural practices pertinent to golf course operations. Prerequisite - INAG 107 Turfgrass Management.
(2 hours of lecture and 2 hours of laboratory per week)

INAG 215

Golf Course Management II

3 credits

An advanced course in turfgrass management with emphasis on maintenance programs of fertilization, pest control, and renovation practice for golf courses. Maintenance budgets for course operations are discussed. The current status of the industry is reviewed in addition to current course design philosophy and construction techniques. Prerequisite -INAG 107 Turfgrass Management.
(2 hours of lecture and 2 hours of laboratory per week)

INAG 217

Livestock Management

3 credits

Fundamentals of livestock management, including current status, genetics, reproduction, health and nutrition for beef, sheep and swine are discussed. Production practices and systems of production are also covered.

INAG 218

Landscape Construction

3 credits

The basic principles and practices of landscape construction. A study and analysis of wood, concrete, masonry, stone, electrical fixtures, water garden structures, and other materials and supplies utilized in the landscape industry. Emphasis will be placed on safety, development and interpretation of construction drawings, specifications for common structures, material selection, cost estimation, site preparation and construction techniques.
(2 hours of lecture and 2 hours of laboratory per week)

PLSC 255/INAG 222

Landscape Design and Implementation

4 credits

The fundamental principles of landscape architecture as applied to residential and commercial landscaping including study of principles of both formal and informal designs and plan graphics. Students will produce landscape drawings using principles taught. Prerequisite - INAG 113 Woody Ornamentals I or Woody Ornamentals II or equivalent
(2 hours of lecture and 4 hours of laboratory per week.)

INAG 224

Greenhouse/Production Management

3 credits

The course will cover structures, equipment, maintenance, general procedures and methods associated with commercial greenhouse operations. Students will learn horticultural techniques applicable to commercially viable greenhouse crops for Maryland. Two semester projects include the production of pot mums and and hydroponic lettuce.
(2 hours of lecture and 2 hours of laboratory per week.)

INAG 226

Diseases of Ornamentals

3 credits

Basic introduction to plant pathology and the common disorders of ornamentals and turf. Course stresses diagnosis and Integrated Pest Management (IPM) control methods.
(2 hours of lecture and 2 hours of laboratory per week.)

PLSC 272/INAG 227

Arboriculture

3 credits

Students study the cultivation of ornamental shade and street trees. Emphasis on planting, transplanting, climbing, and maintaining large trees. Maintenance includes fertilization, pruning, cabling, and insect and disease control.
(2 hours of lecture and 3 hours of laboratory per week.)

INAG 230

Employment Communication

1 credit

The course provides an overview of the employment-seeking process from self-analysis to job acceptance, and it prepares students for the job search process by teaching them to write resumes and cover letters, to interview for a job, and to handle other employment related communication. The course also explores the employment process from the perspective of the employer.

INAG 231

Insects of Ornamentals and Turfgrass

3 credits

An overview of the major insect pests of turfgrasses and ornamentals present in Maryland. Life history and current control strategies of approximately 150 insects will be covered. Also, beneficial insects, important for controlling insect pests, will be reviewed.
(2 hours of lecture and 2 hours of laboratory per week.)

INAG 232

Equine Business Management

3 credits

Two lectures per week. The study and practice of applying decision-making skills and tools needed for operating a profitable equine boarding stable business.

INAG 233

Equine Reproduction Management

2 credits

Students learn the fundamental skills necessary to manage equine reproductive services including anatomy and physiology of genital tracts, estrus detection, control of cycle, survey of reproductive techniques, infertility, mare, foal and stallion management. One or two Saturday laboratory sessions will be required, dates to be determined.

INAG 235

Surveying, Drainage, & Irrigation Practices

3 credits

Basic surveying and land measurement skills, surface and tile drainage systems, and irrigation systems and components will be studied and practiced. Emphasis will be placed on systems used for turfgrass and landscaping applications.
(2 hours of lecture and 2 hours of laboratory per week.)

INAG 236

Spanish Communications

3 credits

Students will learn conversational and work-related Spanish. The course focuses on giving instructions and using workplace terminology as it relates to materials and equipment. Speaking and listening skills are emphasized.

INAG 237

GPS Applications in Agriculture

2 credits

The basic principles of Global Positioning Systems and Graphical Information Systems will be the focus of this course. Students will use two types of GPS data collection units to collect data features from sources on campus or at their work site. Data will be analyzed and maps created using software including: Trimble GPS Office, TerraSync, ArcView GIS and FarmWorks Sitemate and Precision Course Management systems. Students will download and integrate available on-line geo-referenced map images to support the development of their GPS collected. data.

Prerequisite: INAG 101: Computer Applications or suitable computer applications course
(1 hour of lecture and 2 hours of laboratory per week.)

INAG 299A

Internship I

1 credit

On-site internship training in the student's major area of study. Students must complete a minimum of 320 working hours at an approved work site. Students should complete the on-site portion of their internship during the summer between their first and second years. After completing Internship I, students must take Internship II in which they complete a report. The two courses should be completed in consecutive semesters or simultaneously. Grading: Satisfactory/Fail.
Prerequisite: Advisor's approval.

INAG 299B

Internship II

1 credit

Internship II is a follow up report to Internship I, and the two courses should be completed in consecutive semesters. Students must complete and submit a comprehensive report on the activity and management of the work site used in INAG 299A Internship I.
Grading: Regular. Prerequisite: Advisor's approval. Pre/Corequisite: INAG 299A Internship I.


PLSC 100

Introduction to Horticulture

4 credits

An overview to the art and science of horticulture. Relationships between plant science and plant production, the use of horticultural plants and plant stress as influenced by cultural practices.

(2.5 hours of lecture, 2 hours of laboratory per week.)

This course has instructional materials online at:

http://www.nrsl.umd.edu/courses/plsc100/

PLSC 101

Introduction to Crop Science

4 credits

Major crop plants including: anatomy, physiology, morphology, history, use, adaptation, culture, improvement and economic importance.
(3 hours of lecture, 2 hours of laboratory per week.)

PLSC 255

Landscape Design and Implementation

4 credits

The fundamental principles of landscape architecture as applied to residential and commercial landscaping including study of principles of both formal and informal designs and plan graphics. Prerequisite - INAG 113 Woody Ornamentals I.

PLSC 253

Woody Plants for Mid-Atlantic Landscapes I

3 credits

The identification of various plant materials and their application to gardens, landscapes, golf courses, woodland and highway plantings. The course prepares the student to select appropriate plant materials for particular situations and to make decisions concerning the preservation or removal of native plant materials as they occur in the existing landscape. Deciduous ground covers, vines, shrubs and trees are included, emphasizing native American species.
(2 hours of lecture and 2 hours of laboratory per week)

PLSC 254

Woody Plants for Mid-Atlantic Landscapes II

3 credits

The identification of various plant materials and their application to gardens, landscapes, golf courses, woodland and highway plantings. The course prepares students to select appropriate plant materials for particular situations and to make decisions concerning the preservation or removal of native plant materials as they occur in the existing landscape. Ground covers, vines, shrubs and trees are included, with emphasis on broad leaf and narrow leaf evergreens and spring flowering plants.
Prerequisite-- PLSC 253 Woody Plants I, or INAG113 Woody Ornamentals I
(2 hours of lecture and 2 hours of laboratory per week)

PLSC 255

:andscape Design and Implementation

4 credits

The fundamental principles of landscape architecture as applied to residential and commercial landscaping including study of principles of both formal and informal designs and plan graphics. Students will produce landscape drawings using principles taught. Prerequisite - INAG 113 Woody Ornamentals I, or INAG 220 Woody Ornamentals II, or PLSC 253 Woody Plants for Mid-Atlantic Landscapes I, or PLSC 254 Woody Plants for Mid-Atlantic Landscapes II
(2 hours of lecture and 3 hours of laboratory per week.

PLSC 272

Principles of Arboriculture

3 credits

The establishment and maintenance of healthy trees in an urban setting will be studied. Lectures will focus on the physical constraints to tree development in the city, and the role of physiological processes in regulating tree vigor. Laboratory exercises will cover the unique aspects of urban soils, tree valuation procedures, pruning and training, and supervised climbing.

Two hours of lecture and three hours of laboratory per week.

PLSC 489A

Herbaceous Annuals and Perennials

3 credits

An introductory course that covers the proper culture (species requirements, soils/nutrition, weed and pest/disease management), the identification of and the landscape use for a broad selection of herbaceous annual and perennial plants commonly used in home, public display and commercial landscapes. Specific plants covered include bulbs and tuberous roots, annual specimen and bedding plants, ornamental grasses, herbaceous perennials, groundcovers, and the basics of aquatic garden design, care and plant selection. Students gain the skills and knowledge to select plants and to successfully design and manage herbaceous plants in landscapes.

 Links To Other Pages At The Institute of Applied Agriculture

IAA HomePage

Agribusiness Management

Equine Business Management

Institute Director   

Ornamental Horticulture 

Landscape Management

Turfgrass Management  

Golf Course Management

This web page is maintained by the Institute of Applied Agriculture at the University of Maryland, College Park, MD 20742. Comments and questions about this page can be directed to or (301) 405-4685.