Agricultural & Animals Sciences

Course Description:

In this course, students will start with the basics and progressively build practical skills in AFNR systems, animal & plant sciences and natural resource systems. They will gain hands-on experience in animal health, plant care, and the use of modern agricultural technologies. As students advance, they will explore more complex topics. Throughout the course, students will work in teams, building leadership, communication, and collaboration skills through group projects and activities. The course will prepare students for careers in agriculture, animal science, and related fields by combining technical knowledge with real-world applications.

• The program covers all areas within agriculture and natural resources from how it all connects with plants, animals, & natural resources and how they connect as one. 
• Learn how to work with others in a collaborative model through hands-on activities with daily barn and greenhouse chores along with leadership skills. 
• Problem-solve animal and plant health issues.
• Work in the field & greenhouse to learn about soils and crops. 
• Students raise meat, milk, eggs, and honey to learn about the importance of agriculture food processing.
• Compete in FFA contests revolving around different agricultural topics (floral, crops, meats, animals), leadership contests, livestock judging, skills contests, meats judging and attend conventions.

Students who would benefit from this program

Students who would benefit from this program are those who 

• enjoy working with plants and animals
• are good at problem-solving and are independent workers
• interested in a wide range of agricultural topics
• enjoy hands-on learning

Course Outline:

1st Semester: Raising broiler chickens, growing poinsettias, laying hens, breeding pigs and artificial insemination, soil science, agribusiness, agricultural perspectives, livestock birth, dissections, FFA leadership contest.

2nd Semester: Animal rotations with 8 different species of livestock, animal nutrition, anatomy & physiology of animals and plants, veterinary skills, plant sciences, FFA skills contest, greenhouse management.

High School Credit:

Students will earn elective credit at their high school upon completion of this course. Please see a high school counselor (based on district decision) for eligibility towards 4th-year math-related credit, VPAA credit, and waived credits for third year science and second year world language.

College Credit: Second year students who have completed enough SAE hours and earned their Michigan FFA State Degree will have the opportunity to earn 6 college credits to Michigan State University within the College of Agriculture and National Resources.

Length of Program:

1 year*

*2nd year opportunity available to those who qualify