Agriculture students visit the Alberta irrigation research station - Lethbridge College

By Dori Modney with files from Lethbridge College

Changes to Lethbridge College’s Agriculture Sciences program brings new student options

Sep 2, 2020 | 10:44 AM

LETHBRIDGE, AB. — The Agriculture Sciences program at Lethbridge College has instituted some positive changes, which will better prepare students for a career in the Ag industry.

In past years, students would have to choose a major before their first year of study. Now, the first year will introduce students to the basics of agriculture, such as botany, animal science, commodity marketing, soils, sustainable agriculture and communications. Students then chose from one of three majors in their second year – agronomy, animal science or a recently introduced agriculture business option.

The new course format, will provide students with a stronger knowledge base, before they choose their major. They will also have the option to earn an additional diploma, with just one extra year of study in a different major.

Dr. Terry Kowalchuk, Dean of the Centre for Technology, Environment and Design, notes many students entre college not knowing what they would like to specialize in, or what area of agriculture might provide the greatest opportunity for them.

“This common first year allows students a full year of flexibility to make that choice without losing any course credit or spending extra money on tuition before switching majors. Each of these majors is tailored to meet the needs of careers in those specific fields.”

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Byrne Cook, chair of the School of Agriculture, explains that industry advisory members regularly meet with the College to offer insight on curriculum updates and offer direction on programming to meet the changing needs of industry.

“We have considerable connections with local industry partners, many operated by Lethbridge College alumni, which directly contribute to the education of our students. During their studies, our students will have contact with over 30 different industry partners through tours, demonstrations and guest lectures, all of whom are excited to help us train future employees.”

Agriculture Sciences students at the College also have opportunities for involvement in various research conducted through the Centre for Applied Research, Innovation and Entrepreneurship.

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Construction of a 10,000-square-foot greenhouse, a new MOU with Farming Smarter and recent funding for the creation of the Integrated Agriculture Technology Centre are all additions to the college’s long-standing relationships with Agriculture Canada and Alberta Agriculture.

Cook notes the research helps keep the College up-to-date on changes in agricultural fields.

“It attracts specialized researchers which can help us in the classroom and lab; it attracts additional funds for equipment and more research; and it provides research conferences and events for our students to attend right here on campus.”

Cook is also proud of the fact that the Agriculture Sciences program has a nearly 100 per cent job placement rate following graduation.

The College’s Collaborative Centre of Excellence in Agriculture is a hub for agricultural research and innovation. It underscores the college as a proven player in the industry, with faculty, staff and partners who understand farming, embrace innovation, and leads the way with data-driven agriculture.

The changes to the Agriculture Sciences program take effect for the Fall 2020 semester, which begins Sept. 9. There is still time to apply for the Fall 2020 semester. Visit lethbridgecollege.ca/apply to learn how.