Course Descriptions

The following course listings were updated in June 2009. 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.


Golf Course Management

Landscape Management

Equine Business Management

Turfgrass Management  

Agribusiness Management

Ornamental Horticulture 

Sports Turf Management

Golf Course Construction Management

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

3 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.
(2 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 116/ ANSC 110

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)

INAG 117/ 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.

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 122/ ANSC 233

Equine Behavior

3 credits

(1 hour of lecture and 2 hours of laboratory per week).
Course work includes the study of normal and abnormal behaviors, learning ability, as well as different training and conditioning methods.

INAG 123

Introduction to Sustainable Agriculture

3 credits

This course provides students with an overview of the principles and practices of sustainable agriculture. Students learn about the economic, social and environmental impacts of agriculture, and they should be able to relate principles of sustainability to production practices.

(Prerequisite - approval of instructor.)

INAG 199

Special Problems

1-3 credits

A detailed study, including a written report, involving a current issue in an agricultural area that relates to the student’s major. The studey is conducted under the direction of a faculty member. A maximum of three credit hours of special problems may be applied toward graduation.

(Prerequisite - approval of instructor. Repeatable to 3 credit )

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

(2 hours of lecture and 2 hours of laboratory per week).
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--PLSC 204 Fundamentals of Ag Mechanics.
Prerequisite or corequisite--INAG 101 Computer Applications

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

Agronomic Principles of Golf Turf Management

3 credits

(2 hours of lecture and 2 hours of laboratory per week).
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.

INAG 215

Business Management for Golf Turf Management

3 credits

(2 hours of lecture and 2 hours of laboratory per week)
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: Introduction to Turfgrass Management)

INAG 216

Feeds and Feeding

3 credits

Fundamentals of animal nutrition: nutrients, digestion, absorption and use of feedstuffs, measurement of the usefulness of feeds and factors affecting the value of feeds. Balanced rations and feeding standards for livestock species. Production practices for beef and dairy cattle, swine, sheep and other species.

(Prerequisite: Satisfactory completion of, or simultaneous registration for INAG 104 Agricultural Mathematics).

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)

INAG 222/ PLSC 255

Landscape Design and Implementation

4 credits

(2 hours of lecture and 4 hours of laboratory per week).
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

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.)

INAG 227/ PLSC 272

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 231

Insects of Ornamental and Turfgrass

3 credits

(2 hours of lecture and 2 hours of laboratory per week)
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.

INAG 232/ ANSC 236

Equine Business Management

3 credits

Students will study and practice decision-making skills and tools needed to operate a profitable equine boarding stable and other equine businesses.

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 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

Surveying and GPS Applications in Agriculture

3 credits

The principles of land measurement using conventional surveying techniques, Global Positioning System (GPS) devices and mapping, utilizing Graphical Information Systems (GIS) will be the focus of this course. Students will use surveying equipment and PGS data collection units to collect land data features. Data will be analyzed and maps created using software including: Trimble GPS Office, ESRI ArcGIS and/or other GIS systems. Students will download and integrate available on-line georeferenced map images to support the development of their own georeferenced collected data. Spatial analysis software will be used to locate problem areas of field agronomic factors.
Prerequisite: INAG 101: Computer Applications or suitable computer applications course
(2 hours of lecture and 2 hours of laboratory per week.)

INAG 240

Professional Development Seminar

1 credit

 Required for all graduating students, this course provides students with the opportunity to reflect on their academic experience and develop skills necessary to successfully transition into their careers. Students will explore careers and professional associations, complete their portfolios, and prepare resumes. Each student will develop and present a professional presentation on his/her internship experience.

(Pre-requisite or corequisite: INAG 299A: Internship I)

INAG 241

Agronomic Principles for Sports Turf Management

3 credits

(2 hours of lecture and 2 hours of laboratory per week)
An in-depth course on cultural practices used to improve and maintain sports fields. Additional topics will include field safety, synthetic field, and turfgrass species adapted for sports field use. This course is not open to students who have completed PLSC 402: Sports Turf Management.

(Pre-requisite: INAG 107: Introduction to Turfgrass Management).

INAG 242

Golf Course Design and Construction

3 credits

 (2 hours of lecture and 2 hours of laboratory per week) The course covers the history and current design trends in golf course architecture, permitting requirements of federal and state agencies such as the US Army Corps of Engineers, Soil Conservation Service, and the Maryland Department of Environment. Golf course construction techniques, workplace safety, and engineering principles will be discussed.

Prerequisite: INAG 107: Introduction to Turfgrass Management

INAG 244

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.

INAG 248

Topics in Sustainable Agriculture

1 credit

Through guest speakers and experts, this one-credit course exposes students to current trends, concerns and research in sustainable agriculture. It allows students to explore various interest areas and discuss a variety of topics as they relate to sustainable practices.

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.

ANSC 101

Principles of Animal Science

2 credits

A comprehensive overview of the application of biology in the care and use of animals that live in close association with humans including food animals, companion animals, lab animals, zoo animals, etc. The role of science in modern food production using animals will be emphasized.
Offered in fall semester only.

ANSC 103

Principles of Animal Science Laboratory

1 credit

Laboratory focusing on the application of biology in the care and use of animals that live in close association with humans including food animals, companion animals, lab animals, zoo animals, etc. Labs will include live animals. Offered in fall semester only.

(Pre- or corequisite: ANSC 101)

ANSC 220

Livestock Management

4 credits

Management of meat animals including beef, sheep and swine. Breeding, feeding management and marketing practices at the leading edge of technology for maximum economic efficiency.

(Pre-requisite: ANSC 101)

ANSC 232

Horse Management

3 credits

(2 hours of lecture and 2 hours of laboratory per week)
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.

(Pre-requisite: ANSC 101 Introduction to Animal Science).

ANSC 330

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)

PLSC 100

Introduction to Horticulture

4 credits

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

This course has instructional materials online at:
http://www.nrsl.umd.edu/courses/plsc100/

PLSC 101

Introduction to Crop Science

4 credits

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

PLSC 204

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.

PLSC 235

Irrigation & Drainage Practices for Turf

3 credits

This course covers water and drainage use doctrines, irrigation hydraulics, irrigation layout, scheduling and valve operation. An irrigation design problem for a residential property and a sports field will be required. Students will conduct an irrigation audit, troubleshoot an irrigation system, evaluate irrigation uniformity and cover water conservation practices for turfgrass properties
(2 hours of lecture and 2 hours of laboratory per week.)

PLSC 253

Woody Plants for Mid-Atlantic Landscapes I

3 credits

(2 hours of lecture and 2 hours of laboratory per week).
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.

(Prerequisite - INAG 100 or PLSC 100 )

PLSC 254

Woody Plants for Mid-Atlantic Landscapes II

3 credits

(2 hours of lecture and 2 hours of laboratory per week).
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.

(Pre-requisite: PLSC 253 and INAG 113 or PLSC 100.

UNIV 100

The Student in the University

1 credit

Introduces students to University life. In a small classroom setting, students will explore how to successfully bridge the gap between high school and college. Study skills, career decision-making, and student development processes will be explored. Previously offered as EDCP 108O. This course is restricted to first-year freshman and transfer students.