Foundation Certificate in Agriculture

Program Overview

The Foundation Certificate in Agriculture (FoundCertAg) is a pre-degree program that provides foundational knowledge and skills for students interested in pursuing further studies or careers in the agricultural industry. The curriculum focuses on practical agricultural knowledge, management, and communication skills, covering topics such as animal production, soil management, and pasture and crop production. Upon successful completion, students can progress to the Diploma in Agriculture, with credits earned from FoundCertAg directly applicable towards the diploma.

Program Outline

Foundation Certificate in Agriculture (FoundCertAg)

Degree Overview:

Objective:

This program provides foundational knowledge and skills for students interested in pursuing further studies or careers in the agricultural industry. The curriculum focuses on practical agricultural knowledge, management, and communication skills.

Level:

Pre-degree study

Duration:

6 months (full-time) or Up to 2 years (part-time)

Key Highlights:

• Introduces pasture and crop production and management.
• Covers animal production, health and management.
• Provides soil management skills.
• Cultivates communication skills for practical agriculture.
• Explores the role of agriculture in the New Zealand economy.

Next Steps:

Upon successful completion of the FoundCertAg, students can progress to the Diploma in Agriculture. Credits earned from FoundCertAg will be directly applicable towards the diploma.

Outline:

Structure:

The program follows a fixed curriculum with 60 credits of specific courses.

Courses:

• Animal Production and Health (15 credits)
• Farm and Industry Study (15 credits)
• Soil Productivity (15 credits)
• Pasture and Crop Production (15 credits)

Course Descriptions:

• Animal Production and Health: Introduces sheep, dairy, and beef cattle industries in New Zealand, alongside an overview of deer and intensive livestock.
Covers principles of reproduction, genetics, nutrition, welfare, and health of livestock.
• Farm and Industry Study: Explores farm inputs and outputs like meat, milk, and wool.
Integrates technical data with practical farm experience to address contemporary challenges faced by farmers.
• Soil Productivity: Examines soil as a resource in farming systems and the impact of agricultural practices like fertilization, liming, drainage, and irrigation on soil health.
Promotes conservation practices and sustainable land use.
• Pasture and Crop Production: Emphasizes the importance of pastoral farming in New Zealand and the role of legumes in pastures.
Covers identification, selection, and establishment of pasture species and crops, including weed management.

Assessment:

Assessment Methods:

The program likely utilizes various assessment methods including:

• Exams
• Assignments
• Project work
• Practical exercises
• Knowledge: understanding of key agricultural concepts and principles.
• Skills: application of practical skills for farm management, animal care, and crop production.
• Problem-solving: critical thinking and ability to address challenges in agricultural practices.
• Lectures
• Tutorials
• Practical demonstrations
• Field trips

Careers:

Potential Career Paths:

• Shepherd
• Farm assistant
• Farm manager
• Sharemilker
• Equity partner
• Livestock agent
• Fertilizer rep
• Sales rep

Opportunities:

The program prepares graduates for various roles within the agriculture industry, opening doors for diverse career paths and opportunities.

Other:

Admission Requirements:

• Successful completion of 12 weeks of farm employment, or
• Level 3 NZQF Certificate in Agriculture
• Interview may be required