Nelson Academy of Agricultural Sciences Online Course Catalog

Enrollment Form Links

Individual Student Enrolment Form

School District or Organization Enrollment Form

ESA Account Enrolment Form

 

Agriculture Introductory Courses

These classes are great for middle school students and high school students with little to no agricultural experience.

Introduction to Agriculture 1  .5 Credit  $299

Fascinated about the world that feeds and sustains us? Introduction to Agriculture I is your gateway to the agriculture industry, providing you with essential skills and knowledge to build a strong foundation for advanced studies. In this course, you’ll explore the history of agriculture, the importance of soil, plant nutrition, irrigation, hydroponics, organic production, and much more. You’ll dive into the science of crops, including cereal grains, oilseeds, vegetables, fruits, and specialty crops. By the end of this course, you’ll be wanting to learn more about the world of agriculture.

Introduction to Agriculture 2  .5 Credit $299

Explore deeper into the world of agriculture from a whole new perspective? Part 2 dives further into the industry, focusing on animal science and the key sectors that drive agriculture forward. You’ll learn about the external anatomy of farm animals, dive into the beef, dairy, swine, sheep, poultry, and goat industries, and even explore aquaculture and careers in agriculture. By the end of this course, you’ll have a solid foundation in animal science and agriculture, setting you up for success in advanced agriculture courses and future careers.

Careers in Agriculture: Cultivate Your Future  .5 credit  $299

Have you ever considered how agriculture shapes the world around us—and the countless careers it offers? The Agriculture Careers course unlocks nearly 300 exciting opportunities in this ever-evolving industry. Students will learn how to navigate career searches, reflect on their own experiences to uncover potential paths, and explore a variety of agriculture-related professions. Through hands-on exploration, they will identify careers that align with their interests and ambitions. By the end of the course, students will not only see the vast potential within agriculture but also gain the skills and confidence to take the first steps toward a fulfilling career.

Leadership  .5 Credit  $299

Are you ready to grow into a strong, effective leader? This class helps you explore the many parts of great leadership and develop the skills you’ll need. We’ll talk about what it takes to become a good leader, how to communicate clearly and effectively, and how to work well in a team. You’ll also learn how to set leadership goals that help you make a real impact. By the end of this course, you’ll have gained the necessary skills to confidently lead others and achieve your goals.

Animal Sciences

Animal Science I  .5 Credit  $299

“Step into the world of animal science and uncover the secrets of animal physiology, digestion, reproduction, and genetics. This course begins your journey in understanding how animals grow, thrive, and evolve. Designed as the foundation for advanced studies in Veterinary Science, Equine Science, and beyond, Animal Science I equips you with essential skills to navigate the fascinating world of animal husbandry. Are you ready to unlock the knowledge that drives the future of animal care?”

Animal Science II  .5 Credit  $299

Ready to take your animal science knowledge to the next level? Animal Science II builds on the foundation of Animal Science I, diving deeper into the world of animal health, immunity, vaccines, and livestock production—including beef, dairy, swine, sheep, goats, horses, and even aquaculture! This course sets you up for success in advanced studies like Veterinary Science and Equine Science, giving you the essential skills to tackle real-world animal science challenges. If you’re passionate about animals and eager to expand your expertise, this is your next step!

NOTE:  Although there is not a prerequisite for the following Animal Science courses, we highly recommend taking the Animal Science I and II courses above prior to taking the following advanced Animal Science courses.  Contact Mr. Nelson at 406-783-8552 with questions.

Animal Science — Beef Production  .5 Credit  $299

Angus Certified, Wagyu Beef – what’s all the fuss about? Beef Production gives you an in-depth look at the beef industry, focusing on breeding, feeding, and raising productive cattle. You’ll learn about different beef breeds, selecting the right breeding and feeder cattle, nutrition, weaning management, and maintaining herd health. By the end of this course, you’ll be equipped with the knowledge and skills to explore a range of careers in the beef industry. Ready to turn your interest into a future in beef production?

Animal Science — Swine Production  .5  $299

Animal Science Swine Production explores the Swine industry and puts emphasis on breeding, feeding and raising production pork.  The course identifies the different swine breeds, selecting productive breeding and feeder hogs, swine nutrition, weaning management and proper swine health.  Upon completion of this course, students will have an excellent understanding and skills of proper swine production practices.  Students will have the skills to consider starting a personal farrow and / or feeder operation or consider one of the many career opportunities in the swine production field.

Animal Science — Sheep Production  .5  $299

Animal Science Sheep Production explores the Ovine industry and puts emphasis on breeding, feeding and raising production sheep.  The course identifies the different sheep breeds, selecting productive breeding and feeder sheep, sheep nutrition, weaning management and proper ovine health.  Upon completion of this course, students will have an excellent understanding and skills of proper sheep production practices.  Students will have the skills to consider starting a personal ovine production flock, or consider one of the many career opportunities in the ovine production field.

Animal Science – Poultry Production  .5 Credit  $299

Poultry Science is an avian course in animal husbandry. This course will provide the students with the basic education to successfully own and operate an operation of poultry birds or work in the poultry industry. It will discuss poultry history, avian anatomy and biology, reproduction and fertilization, various species, breeds and varieties, disease and prevention, housing and production, nutrition and feeding, health, poultry contracts and modern production, poultry and products inspection, backyard poultry, consumer needs and niche marketing. It is highly recommended (NOT required) that Animal Science I and II be taken prior to the specific animal science courses such as Poultry Science. Upon completion of this course, students will have excellent basic poultry science skills that will lead to a successful career in the poultry and animal science industry.

Veterinary Sciences

Note:  The Veterinary Science I and II below DO NOT qualify for the Veterinary Assistant program. The Veterinary Assistant Courses listed below DO qualify for the Veterinary Assistant program.

Veterinary Science I  .5 Credit  $299

How do you keep your pets healthy? Veterinary Science I takes you on a journey through the essential systems that keep animals healthy and thriving. You’ll ascend into the world of animal cells and tissues, and explore the skeletal, circulatory, respiratory, renal, reproductive, digestive, nervous, endocrine, and immune systems. The course also covers basic animal health, nutrition, and introduces exciting careers in veterinary science. You will be ready to learn even more about animal care.

Veterinary Science II   .5 Credit  $299

What does it take to diagnose, treat, and prevent animal diseases? Veterinary Science II builds on the foundation of Veterinary Science I, diving deep into the world of animal health and disease. You’ll explore symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention strategies for a variety of animal illnesses. By the end of this course, you’ll have the knowledge and skills to pursue further education in veterinary medicine, veterinary technology, or other exciting careers in animal science. Ready to take the next step in understanding animal health?

NOTE:  The following two courses are the required courses for the Veterinary Assistant Certification program.  Veterinary Science I and II above do not qualify for the program.

Veterinary Assistant Certification I   .5 Credit  $299

Veterinary Assistant Certification I is the first of two courses REQUIRED to complete the Veterinary Assistant Certificate program. This class is open to all students regardless of your intention to complete the Veterinary Assistant Certificate program. This class will include curriculum from Animal Care Technology which is required for the Veterinary Assistant Certificate. 

Ever dreamed of working alongside veterinarians and caring for animals? Veterinary Assistant Certification I lays the foundation for a future in animal care, diving into the essential systems that keep animals healthy. You’ll explore animal cells and tissues, along with the skeletal, circulatory, respiratory, renal, reproductive, digestive, nervous, endocrine, and immune systems. This course also covers basic animal health, nutrition, and career pathways in veterinary science. By the end, you’ll be equipped with strong animal husbandry and veterinary skills, preparing you for the next course in Vet Assisting.

Veterinary Assistant Certification II  .5 Credit  $299

Veterinary Assistant Certification II is the second REQUIRED course for the Veterinary Assistant Certification program. This class is open to all students regardless of your intention to complete the Veterinary Assistant Certificate program. This class will include curriculum from Animal Care Technology which is required for the Veterinary Assistant Certificate.

Want to gain even more expertise in animal care and veterinary science? Veterinary Assistant Certification II builds on the foundation of Certification I, deepening your understanding of animal anatomy, health, and nutrition. You’ll explore essential systems, including the skeletal, circulatory, respiratory, renal, reproductive, digestive, nervous, endocrine, and immune systems, while also diving into real-world veterinary science careers. Whether you’re pursuing certification or looking to expand your knowledge, this course equips you with the expertise to excel in animal care and veterinary support.

Equine Sciences

Equine Science I  .5 Credit  $299

Have you ever been curious about what makes horses, donkeys, and mules tick? Equine Science I takes you through the basics, covering equine physiology, genetics, reproduction, digestion, and overall health. By the end of this course, you’ll have a solid foundation to dive into Equine Science II and explore a wide range of exciting career opportunities in the equine industry. Ready to gallop into the world of equine science?

Equine Science II  .5 Credit  $299

Investigate more in truly understanding and caring about horses!  Equine Science II builds on the foundation of Equine Science I, diving deep into horse feeding management, foaling, equine dental care, behavior, and training. This course will give you the skills to care for your own horses with confidence or explore exciting career opportunities in the equine world. Whether you’re passionate about training, health management, or behavior, this is your chance to step into the fascinating world of equine science like never before!

Equine Science III  .5 Credit  $299

What does it take to manage the most complex health issues in horses? Equine Science III builds on the foundation of Equine Science I and II, diving into critical topics like equine diseases, hoof health, dermal illnesses, lameness, colic, natural poisoning, and much more. You’ll also explore the role of analgesics, sedatives, and antibiotics in horse care. By the end of this course, you’ll be equipped to provide expert care for your own horses or consider a wide array of careers in the equine sciences.

Farm Business Management

NOTE:  All Farm Business Management classes are intended for students who plan to return to their farms/ranches as a career.  This is NOT for those students who want a career in an Agribusiness such a supply store manager.  SEE Agribusiness courses below.

Introduction to Farm Business Management  .5 Credit  $299

Ever asked oneself what makes a farm business successful? This course covers all the essentials, from planning operations and managing labor costs to evaluating farm machinery efficiency and deciding between leasing or owning equipment. You’ll also explore career opportunities within the farm business industry. By the end of the course, you’ll have the core skills needed to succeed in advanced farm business coursework and take your first steps toward a rewarding career in the industry.

Farm Business Management — Financial Planning  .5 Credit  $299

Want to turn your farming passion into a financially thriving business? Farm Business Management: Financial Planning is the course that’ll show you how! Get ready to dive into the essentials of financial success in agriculture—whether it’s crafting a winning business plan, mastering budgeting and accounting, or setting up rock-solid farm record systems. You’ll also learn how to measure financial health and track your progress like a pro. By the end of this course, you’ll have the financial planning skills to run your farm or agribusiness with confidence and smart strategies. It’s your step-by-step guide to making farming not just fun—but profitable, too!

Farm Business Management: Cost of Production  .5 Credit  $299

Ready to roll up your sleeves and get into the nuts and bolts of farming? Farm Business Management: Estimating Production Costs is your ticket to mastering the financial side of agriculture! From planting fields of wheat, barley, oats, and sugar beets to raising cattle, swine, sheep, and dairy, you’ll learn exactly what it costs to grow and raise your way to success. With hands-on cost estimation skills, you’ll be equipped to make smart, money-savvy decisions in the world of farming and agribusiness. Whether you’re dreaming of running your own farm or jumping into the agribusiness world, this course will set you up to make those dreams a reality – all while having fun learning how to turn farming into a profitable venture!

Farm Business Management: Credit & Investments  .5 Credit  $299

Ready to get a grip on farm financing? Farm Business Management: Credit is here to help you understand the steps of getting the cash you need to grow your farm! From picking the perfect lender to exploring Farm Service Agency loans, farm credit systems, and more, this course covers it all. You’ll dive into cool stuff like calculating loan payments, figuring out interest, and using your farm records to snag the best credit deals. Plus, you’ll learn when to expand or scale back your operation for the best financial future. By the end, you’ll have the credit know-how to take your farming game to the next level and make smart, confident financial decisions!

Farm Business Management: Agriculture Marketing and Hedging  .5 Credit  $299

Are you ready to understand how agriculture businesses make smart money moves? This class is your guide to the exciting world of marketing and managing risks in farming and food. You’ll learn how farmers and agriculture companies decide when and where to sell their products to get the best prices.  We’ll dive into key topics like understanding the market, exploring what makes crop and livestock prices go up and down, and how supply, demand, and global events impact agriculture markets. You’ll discover different marketing strategies to sell agriculture products, from direct sales to working with big buyers. We’ll also cover hedging and risk management, where you’ll learn about tools like futures and options that help protect against price changes. This is crucial for keeping profits steady in an unpredictable business. Finally, we’ll look at real-world examples and case studies, so you can see how these strategies work in practice.  By the end of this course, you’ll have a strong grasp of how agriculture products are bought and sold, and how to make smart decisions to reduce financial risks and maximize profits. This is a must-have class for anyone thinking about a career in agriculture business, finance, or even if you’re just curious about the economics of food!

Agribusiness

NOTE:  The Agribusiness classes are for those students wanting a career in an Ag Business such as a supply store manager.  This is NOT for those students who wish to return to their Farm or Ranch as a career.  See Farm Business Management courses above.

Agribusiness I: Seeds of Success  .5 Credit  $299

“Ever wondered what goes on behind the scenes in the business of agriculture? Agribusiness I takes you beyond the farm and into the world of agricultural business—where equipment, supplies, and services keep the industry running. You’ll dive into the essentials of farm retail, from selling cutting-edge equipment to managing feed, chemicals, and farm cooperatives. This course sets you up with the skills and knowledge to tackle Agribusiness II and discover the exciting career paths available in this booming field!”

Agribusiness II: Grow Your Dream  .5 credit  $299

Ready to build your agribusiness empire? Agribusiness II is the course that turns your entrepreneurial dreams into a thriving reality! Dive into everything from picking the perfect business idea to finding your market, securing startup funds, and mastering the art of business management. You’ll get the lowdown on keeping records, tracking your financial progress, managing risks, and even how to market and price your products. Plus, you’ll learn how to promote your business and lead a team like a pro. By the end, you’ll have all the tools to turn your agribusiness vision into a profitable, real-world success!

Agricultural Mechanics

Agricultural Mechanics I: Build Smart, Work Safe  .5 Credit  $299

Dive into the fundamentals of agricultural mechanics! This course covers shop safety, tool selection, sharpening, and precision measuring with tape measures, calipers, and micrometers. You’ll learn about different fasteners and their uses, as well as the basics of oxyacetylene welding, cutting, brazing, and equipment setup. Arc welding is also introduced, including basic joint techniques and career opportunities in welding. By the end, you’ll have a strong foundation in mechanical skills, preparing you for Agriculture Mechanics II and future hands-on careers.

Agricultural Mechanics II: Build, Repair, & Innovate  .5 Credit  $299

Ready to build on your agriculture mechanics knowledge? Agriculture Mechanics II picks up where the first course left off, diving deeper into the tools and techniques you’ll need for hands-on projects. In this class, you’ll learn important skills like metalworking, which is shaping and joining metal for different uses, and woodworking, where you’ll design and build with wood. You’ll also cover project design, which means planning out your agriculture projects from start to finish. We’ll explore concrete and masonry for building strong structures, and plumbing to understand and install water systems. Finally, you’ll master rope working, learning different knots and uses for rope in agriculture.  This course is all about applying what you’ve learned and developing practical skills that are valuable in many agriculture careers.

Arc and Gas Welding Theory  .5 Credit  $299

Ready to spark a new skill? The Arc and Gas Welding course introduces you to the fundamentals of welding, covering everything from arc welding safety and electrode selection to MIG and TIG welding techniques. You’ll learn how to evaluate welds, strike an arc, and master gas welding equipment, fusion filler, brazing, and gas cutting. While this is a theory-based course, it lays the groundwork for hands-on training in an onsite welding lab. Get ready to build a strong foundation in the world of welding!

Plant Sciences

Plant Science  .5 Credit  $299

How do plants shape our world? This introductory course takes you on a journey through the fascinating world of plant science, exploring the crucial role plants play in our lives. You’ll plunge into the inner workings of plant parts and functions, soil science, irrigation, photosynthesis, respiration, and so much more. From soil texture and conservation to plant nutrients and growth, this course has it all. By the end, you’ll be equipped with a deep understanding of plant growth, setting you up for success in Plant Science II and Agronomy classes. Let the adventure in plant science begin!

Agronomy I  .5 Credit  $299

Imagine a world where the food we eat depends on the science beneath our feet. Agronomy I takes you deep into the power of crop production, from planting and fertilization to disease control and harvesting. Explore the secrets of grain, vegetable, and specialty crop systems, uncover the pros and cons of tillage methods, and unlock the mysteries of soil fertility and conservation. If you’re ready to see agriculture in a whole new way, this course is your gateway to mastering the land!

Greenhouse Technologies  .5 Credit  $299

What if you could control the perfect growing environment year-round? Greenhouse Technology unlocks the secrets to building and maintaining a thriving greenhouse, diving into nutrient management, irrigation, pest control, and disease prevention. You’ll also explore cutting-edge hydroponic techniques that are transforming the future of plant production. Whether you dream of running your own greenhouse or pursuing a career in horticulture or floriculture, this course equips you with the knowledge and skills to make it happen. Are you ready to grow something amazing?

Hydroponics: Grow Smart & Soil Free  .5 Credit  $299

How can plants thrive without soil?  Hydroponics dives into the fascinating world of soilless growing, exploring hydroponic systems and techniques used in greenhouses and other environments. You’ll learn about feeding hydroponic plants, selecting the right growing mediums, and comparing systems like Deep Water Culture, Nutrient Film Technique, and Ebb and Flow. The course also covers troubleshooting and crop selection to maximize success. By the end, you’ll have the skills to apply hydroponics in personal or commercial greenhouses and explore exciting career paths in horticulture and floriculture. Ready to grow your future?

If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact Mr. Nelson at mrnelson@allagonline.com or call him at 783-8552 (cell & text).