Farm Operation
Technical Diploma | Financial Aid-Eligible
27 Credits | 1 Year
Ashland*, New Richmond*, Rice Lake*, Superior*
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.
Financial assistance may be available as part of the Worker's Advancement Initiative (WAI-2) grant program with the Northwest Wisconsin Workforce Investment Board (NWWIB). To learn more about eligibility and training services, please contact Sara Wieland, Training Navigator at swieland@nwwib.com or 715.230.8399 or check out the website at: Worker Advancement Initiative 2.0 (WAI 2.0) - NWWIB.
Program Overview
The Farm Operation program includes courses 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 give students the critical thinking skills necessary for profitable decision making. The Farm Operation Technical Diploma will give you both classroom and in the field instruction.
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 a farm business plan
- Apply marketing principles to agricultural enterprises
Technical Standards
In this program, students should be able to meet specific technical standards, which are the essential skills and abilities needed to be successful in a program, with or without reasonable accommodation. It is important to review and understand these standards before applying to the program.
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.
Practice hands-on skills.
Academics
Farm Operation courses are offered in a hybrid setting. This allows you to enjoy the freedom of taking classes through the internet live from anywhere.
- Connect with your instructor and classmates during live classes via the web.
- Labs will be on Fridays. These hands-on learning experiences will be held on-campus or at farm sites throughout the year.
- Additional travel may be required for On the Farm 1 and On the Farm 2.
Credential Opportunities
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
Learn how to improve quality of life, strengthen farm profitability or streamline management. What you learn, will be directly applied to your farm or your agribusiness.
Continuing Education
Evening course will be available for individuals needing to complete continuing education requirements for FSA loans.
Required Courses
The Farm Operation program covers topics in agronomy, livestock management, business marketing, and record-keeping with the opportunity of gaining work experience in the industry.
Featured Farm Operation Courses
Farm Operation
As a Farm Operation student at Northwood Tech, you can earn credentials each step of the way!
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Admissions and Tuition
Northwood Tech has an easy admission process that can be completed in one visit. Please see the details under the "Requirements and Application" section to get started.
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
Cost of Attendance
The Cost of Attendance (COA) is an estimate of the costs that you may incur while attending Northwood Technical College.
Estimated Total Program Tuition 2024-25*
Farm Operation
27 Credits | 1 Year
$4,664
*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 earn certificates in Crop Production, Livestock Production and Agricultural Business Fundamentals and a technical diploma in Farm Operation.
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Transfer Center
Transfer your Northwood Tech credits to a four-year college to earn your bachelor's degree and beyond.
Career Outlooks
Northwood Tech's graduates experience success. Learn more about the types of careers you can get after graduation.
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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.
