Farm Operation
Technical Diploma | Financial Aid-Eligible
28 Credits | 1 Year
Ashland*, New Richmond*, Rice Lake*
Outreach Center: Balsam Lake*
*Combination of Hybrid and On Site instruction
Career Cluster: Agriculture, Food and Natural Resources
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Finding the class you want to take has never been easier.
No matter the size of the farm, there is always something new in agriculture. Students in this program will learn about new technology in the classroom and how that can be applied to their operation in the on-farm component. This program has something for everyone who is interested in production agriculture.
Program Overview
Through classroom and in-the-field instruction, you'll gain skills in livestock management and nutrition, crop and soil management, commodities and marketing, emerging trends in agriculture and farm records and analysis. This program is designed to provide you with the critical thinking skills necessary for profitable decision making.
Program Outcomes
Farm Operation graduates will be able to:
- Utilize agronomic resources for optimal farm production
- Evaluate livestock management plans
- Plan for operation and maintenance of farm facilities and equipment
- Create farm business plans
- Apply marketing principles to agricultural enterprises
The instructors in this program sift through the present research and bring information that can be directly applied to your farm. The classroom setting has an environment of camaraderie that encourages students to share their experiences with different management practices, seed varieties and feeding trials.
Share ideas and network with fellow farmers.
Practical, on-farm application.
Flexible scheduling.
Academics
Farm Operation courses are offered On Site in Rice Lake and Hybrid instruction at Ashland, Balsam Lake and New Richmond.
- Evening course will be available for individuals needing to complete continuing education requirements for FSA loans.
- Labs will be on Fridays at either the Rice Lake campus or On-Farm (at regional farms and test plots).
Career Pathways
Short-term pathway certificates are available if you wish to ladder your progress through the program within your own timeline rather than through a nine-month school calendar. Pathway certificates in Crop Production, Livestock Production and Agricultural Business Fundamentals.
Practical & Applicable Lessons
The lessons of this program are designed to be applied directly to the production agricultural operation. The intent of each lesson is to either improve quality of life, strengthen farm profitability or streamline management.
Flexibility
Conveniently take Farm Operation courses in a hybrid model, allowing for flexibility with On Site and Online instruction.
Curriculum
The Farm Operation program specifically covers: Soil, Crop, and Livestock management with Livestock Nutrition, Commodities, Emerging Trends in Agriculture, On the Farm 1 and 2, and Farm Records and Analysis.
Featured Farm Operation Courses
Farm Operation
As a Farm Operation student at Northwood Tech, you can earn credentials each step of the way!
You can take this first and get a credential.
This is the program you're looking at.
Continue your education to obtain a bachelor's degree.
Farm Operation Transfer Options
Admissions and Tuition
Northwood Tech has a simple admission process that can be completed in one visit. To start the process, simply fill out an application form along with a $30 application fee. After you’ve successfully submitted your application, your next step is to schedule an admissions meeting with a Northwood Tech counselor to discuss your goals and expectations. That’s it!
Tuition and Fees
Northwood Tech breaks down the cost of education, so you'll have a good idea of how much your education will cost.
Learn More About Paying for College
Estimated Total Program Costs 2021-22*
Farm Operation
28 Credits | 1 Year
$4,553
*Tuition is an estimate and does not include any miscellaneous fees for various courses, tools, books, supplies or uniforms. Program book costs are in addition to tuition and fees and vary depending on course selection and where the books are purchased or rented.
After the Northwood Tech Farm Operation Program
Upon completion of the program, you will obtain certificates in Crop Production, Livestock Production and Agricultural Business Fundamentals and a technical diploma in Farm Operation.
Transfer Options
After you complete your Farm Operation technical diploma at Northwood Tech, you can transfer to another college to continue your education and earn your bachelor's degree.
Career Outlooks
Northwood Tech's graduates experience success. Learn more about the types of careers you can get after graduation.
Ready to join Northwood Tech's successful graduates? Easily apply today.
Get the Northwood Tech experience
Attend an event or schedule a campus tour/program shadow.
Download the Catalog
Learn more about programs, courses, tuition and fees, services and more.
Finding the class you want to take has never been easier.
