Production Agriculture
The Production Agriculture program at Lake Area Technical College prepares students for careers in modern farming, agribusiness, and livestock production. This hands-on degree blends crop and livestock management, farm equipment operation, agronomy, and business principles which equip students with the practical skills and industry knowledge needed for today’s agriculture workforce.
Students gain real-world experience in soil and fertilizer management, crop production, integrated pest and disease control, livestock care, farm equipment maintenance, and commodity marketing. Supervised occupational experiences bring classroom learning directly to the field, allowing students to develop technical expertise, problem-solving skills, and confidence in real agricultural operations.
Electives and optional certifications, such as Precision Agriculture, Livestock Marketing, Artificial Insemination (AI) certification, and Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) preparation, allow students to tailor their education and expand career opportunities. With instructors who bring years of industry experience, students learn to manage farm operations efficiently, make informed production and financial decisions, and implement modern agricultural best practices.
Graduates are prepared for careers such as farm operators, agribusiness managers, crop and livestock producers, feedlot managers, and agricultural support specialists. Many also pursue university transfer opportunities to continue their education in agriculture or agribusiness programs.
Students also have the opportunity to prepare for the Commercial Applicator Certification, a valuable credential for those pursuing careers in crop management, agronomy and custom application. While Lake Area Tech does not administer the certification exam directly, instructors provide preparation support and guidance to help students succeed.
Program Highlights
- Hands-on training in crop production, livestock care, and farm equipment operation
- Supervised occupational experiences that take learning into real-world farm operations
- Optional certifications in CDL and Artificial Insemination (AI)
- Elective courses in precision agriculture, feedlot management, and livestock marketing
- Instructors with extensive experience in modern farm and agribusiness operations
- Career pathways for immediate employment or university transfer
Program Length:
18 months (4 semesters)
Credits Required for Graduation:
72
Award:
Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.)
Articulation
- General Information & FAQs
- SDSU Ag Education
- SDSU Agronomy
- SDSU Ag Science
- SDSU Animal Science
- SDSU Dairy Production
Resources
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