Agricultural and Environmental Sciences | Tech-Prep | 2 years / 900 hours

This program will prepare students to enter the growing and profitable fields of agribusiness and environmental concerns. It combines knowledge of the ecology of living systems with the study of environmentally safe practices in the areas of green technology, land-use management, green residential landscape design, integrated pest management, outdoor recreation, and natural resource management. Students will have access to cutting edge technology, field work, and research practices through a partnership with the New Jersey Department of Agriculture, Rutgers University School of Environmental and Biological Sciences, New Jersey Forest Resource Education Center and Ocean County Soil Conservation District. Students will utilize the OCVTS classroom, greenhouse, and land laboratory for their practical applications. Students will benefit from partnerships with local agribusinesses, participate in site internships and externships, and attend professional seminars, conferences, and industry trade shows. Extensive use of computer technology will be emphasized. Through participation in this three component quality agriculture/environmental science program, students will gain the academic knowledge in the classroom, use technical and critical thinking skills to develop premier leadership, personal growth and career success through involvement in FFA (national agriculture education student organization) activities which will prepare them for work in the 21st century. Upon successful completion of this program and a passing grade (75 or better) on the CASE National Assesment Exam, a Tech Prep agreement with Mercer County College provides students with an opportunity to earn up to seven college credits upon enrollment in an agricultural-related major. Recommended Skills: Strong interest in science and mastery of basic math skills.

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