XII. Course Descriptions

Agriculture

DAGR*1000 Livestock Systems F (3-2) [0.50]
Students will gain an overall understanding of the livestock industry, focusing on major production issues and future challenges. Examples from various livestock production systems will be highlighted.
Department(s): Dean's Office, Ontario Agricultural College
Location(s): Ridgetown
DAGR*1070 Introduction to Business Management F,W (5-0) [0.50]
This course introduces business management principles, functions, and processes. Students will learn about the business environment, decision-making, and the role of the organizational functions, with a particular focus on accounting principles, accounting statements, and the use of financial information.
Restriction(s): DAGR*2110, DAGR*3100
Department(s): Dean's Office, Ontario Agricultural College
Location(s): Ridgetown
DAGR*1090 Communications & Software Applications I F (2-3) [0.50]
Students will develop written language skills and become proficient at using word processing software. Practical skills include writing business letters and other business correspondence, resumes, formal and informal reports, instructional writing, critical thinking and critical writing. Students will become familiarized with campus software systems including campus e-mail, library resources, and classroom support software. Instruction will be provided in computer file management and using the internet as a research tool.
Restriction(s): DAGR*1610, DAGR*1620, DAGR*1720
Department(s): Dean's Office, Ontario Agricultural College
Location(s): Ridgetown
DAGR*1200 Applied Plant Science F,W (3-2) [0.50]
This course covers the basic structure and function of plants and the major functions involved in growth and reproduction as they relate to the production of plants. Topics to be discussed will include: plant processes such as photosynthesis, respiration, transpiration, nutrient uptake and reproduction, basic genetic principles, basic chemistry and the relationship and importance of plant science to the agricultural and horticultural industry.
Department(s): Dean's Office, Ontario Agricultural College
Location(s): Ridgetown
DAGR*1300 Soil Principles F (3-2) [0.50]
This course includes origin and classification of soils, identification and importance of major soil types, identification of primary and secondary nutrients and how they are supplied, composition of soil including minerals, water, air, organic matter and biological organisms and how they interact and the importance of soil as a resource.
Department(s): Dean's Office, Ontario Agricultural College
Location(s): Ridgetown
DAGR*1350 Agricultural Mechanization and Safety F,W (3-2) [0.50]
The course will cover the operating principles and components of tractors and equipment for tillage, planting, and the application of chemicals and fertilizers and harvesting. The course will emphasize safety in all aspects of the operation of agricultural equipment.
Department(s): Dean's Office, Ontario Agricultural College
Location(s): Ridgetown
DAGR*1600 Applied Mathematics F (3-2) [0.50]
This course is designed to augment mathematics skills necessary to compete in today's business environments. Typical applications are chemical rate conversions, solutions and mixtures, elementary algebra and financial topics. The aim is to teach students how to solve actual mathematical problems encountered in the day-to-day operation of agricultural/horticultural/environmental operations.
Department(s): Dean's Office, Ontario Agricultural College
Location(s): Ridgetown
DAGR*2000 Animal Science W (3-2) [0.50]
This course includes the biological principles applicable to the animal sciences with modules on growth, carcass composition, nutrition, reproduction, genetics and health.
Department(s): Dean's Office, Ontario Agricultural College
Location(s): Ridgetown
DAGR*2010 Applied Microbiology W (2-1) [0.50]
This course is an introduction to theoretical and practical aspects of microbiology. Topics include the study of micro-organisms with emphasis on their morphology, physiology, biochemistry, culture and identification. The operation of light microscope, media preparation, and laboratory safety are discussed.
Department(s): Dean's Office, Ontario Agricultural College
Location(s): Ridgetown
DAGR*2020 Financial Management F,W (4-0) [0.50]
Student will learn important concepts and techniques required to analyze financial performance and guide business decision making. A broad range of financial topics will be covered, including financial statements and cash flow analysis, financial forecasting and planning, internal control, budgeting, taxation, and the time value of money.
Prerequisite(s): DAGR*1070
Department(s): Dean's Office, Ontario Agricultural College
Location(s): Ridgetown
DAGR*2070 Livestock Evaluation and Selection W (3-2) [0.50]
Students will be exposed to the proper tools for evaluating various livestock from a confirmation as well as a performance standpoint. Carcass evaluation and grading for such animals as beef, sheep and swine is also a component. A hands on as well as a practical course, students will be able to develop skills in livestock selection, handling and giving oral and written reasons.
Prerequisite(s): DAGR*2000
Department(s): Dean's Office, Ontario Agricultural College
Location(s): Ridgetown
DAGR*2090 Communications & Software Applications II W (3-2) [0.50]
Students will develop effective oral communication and presentation skills using software. Oral communication skills, preparing formal and informal reports with and without technological support. Practical presentation skills include the use of voice, eye contact, time appropriateness and response to questions. Students will also understand the importance of formalized meetings and be instructed in the use of spreadsheet software as a data management tool. Software available on personal electronic devices used to access business and production information will be overviewed.
Restriction(s): DAGR*2600, DAGR*2620, DAGR*2720.
Department(s): Dean's Office, Ontario Agricultural College
Location(s): Ridgetown
DAGR*2150 Precision Agriculture W (3-2) [0.50]
This course is designed to introduce students to the basic principles of precision farming tools and techniques. Topics will include map reading, data collection, data analysis - including geo-statistical methods, and an overview of current precision agriculture technology. Labs will provide hands on learning of geographic information systems (GIS) software, and global positioning (GPS) technology.
Department(s): Dean's Office, Ontario Agricultural College
Location(s): Ridgetown
DAGR*2170 Introduction to US Agriculture W (1-0) [0.00]
This is a required preparatory course for students who plan to participate in the upcoming US Agriculture Study Tour course, DAGR 3170. The course will introduce and familiarize students with the locations which will be visited during the one-week field trip portion of DAGR 3170 that takes place during the late summer. A pass/fail grade will be assigned upon completion of this course. Enrolment into DAGR*2170 does not guarantee acceptance into DAGR*3170.
Department(s): Dean's Office, Ontario Agricultural College
Location(s): Ridgetown
DAGR*2200 Cereal and Forage Management W (3-2) [0.50]
The production and management of cereals and forages is discussed. Topic areas include variety and species selection, soil fertility management, planting dates, row widths, seeding rates, pest management systems, harvesting, drying and storage as applicable.
Prerequisite(s): DAGR*1200, DAGR*1300
Department(s): Dean's Office, Ontario Agricultural College
Location(s): Ridgetown
DAGR*2210 Applied Weed Science F,W (3-2) [0.50]
Weeds will be studied in relation to agricultural practices. Principles of cultural, biological, and chemical control will be outlined. Laboratories will include weed identification and weed control methods.
Prerequisite(s): DAGR*1200
Department(s): Dean's Office, Ontario Agricultural College
Location(s): Ridgetown
DAGR*2220 Viticulture and Oenology W (2-3) [0.50]
This course introduces students to the history of grapes and grape production in Ontario, environmental factors which affect grape production in a cool climate, and practices for establishing and managing a vineyard in the context of producing high-quality wines. It will also provide an overview of the history of winemaking, wines produced in Ontario and other wine-producing regions of the world, and an introduction to the principles and making the various standard types of wine.
Restriction(s): Student must be 19 years of age or older.
Department(s): Dean's Office, Ontario Agricultural College
Location(s): Ridgetown
DAGR*2350 Field Crop Equipment F,W (2-2) [0.50]
This course examines common equipment used for planting, spraying and harvesting of corn, soybeans and small grains. Identification, operation, adjustment, maintenance and calibration of the equipment will be covered. The student will develop the skills and knowledge to be able to adjust and calibrate the equipment for efficient field operations. A focus on the environmental impact of spraying will also be discussed. This course will emphasize safety in all aspects of the safe operation of agricultural equipment.
Department(s): Dean's Office, Ontario Agricultural College
Location(s): Ridgetown
DAGR*2360 Machinery Maintenance W (1-3) [0.50]
This course gives the student the basics in agricultural equipment repairs. A very practical and hands-on approach will be used, with an emphasis on the safe use of tools and shop safety.
Department(s): Dean's Office, Ontario Agricultural College
Location(s): Ridgetown
DAGR*3000 Beef Production F (3-2) [0.50]
Beef cow-calf and feedlot operations are examined, including crossbreeding and pure breeding programs, along with management of the cow-calf herd. The feedlot sections deal with ration formulation, feedlot management, meat quality, marketing and health protection.
Department(s): Dean's Office, Ontario Agricultural College
Location(s): Ridgetown
DAGR*3010 Dairy Production I F (3-2) [0.50]
Students will undertake a study of dairy management systems. Topics will include housing systems, nutrition and feeding programs, sire selection and breeding programs, herd health and milk marketing strategies.
Prerequisite(s): DAGR*2000
Department(s): Dean's Office, Ontario Agricultural College
Location(s): Ridgetown
DAGR*3040 Pork Production F (2-3) [0.50]
This course will provide students with the opportunities to learn both the principles and the skills necessary to manage and care for pigs according to industry standards. Case studies will be used to help students develop the skills necessary to assess farm related pork management problems.
Co-requisite(s): DAGR*2000
Department(s): Dean's Office, Ontario Agricultural College
Location(s): Ridgetown
DAGR*3070 Introduction to Agricultural Economics & Marketing F,W (3-0) [0.50]
This course will provide an application of fundamental economic concepts to agriculture and an introduction to marketing systems and policy institutions related to the Canadian agriculture industry. Topics will include price determination, futures markets, agricultural commodity marketing tools, effects of government intervention, and international trade.
Prerequisite(s): DAGR*1070
Equate(s): DAGR*3060
Department(s): Dean's Office, Ontario Agricultural College
Location(s): Ridgetown
DAGR*3080 Marketing W (3-0) [0.50]
This course introduces fundamental marketing concepts involved in the distribution of goods and services from the producer to the consumer. Students will learn about the marketplace, functions of the marketing mix (product, price, promotion, place), as well as personal selling.
Prerequisite(s): DAGR*1070
Restriction(s): DAGR*3120
Department(s): Dean's Office, Ontario Agricultural College
Location(s): Ridgetown
DAGR*3130 Sales and Sales Management F,W (2-1) [0.50]
This course is an overview of personal selling in today's business environment with particular emphasis on skills needed to present an effective sales presentation. Buyer motivation and behaviour will be discussed along with managing time and sales territories.
Department(s): Dean's Office, Ontario Agricultural College
Location(s): Ridgetown
DAGR*3170 US Agriculture Study Tour F (3-0) [0.50]
This course involves a one-week field trip to the U.S. which will introduce students to international agri-business through direct interaction with primary producers, agriculture related businesses, and researchers. Students will be given the opportunity to speak directly with professionals in the agri-business industry to increase their knowledge of U.S. agricultural practices. An additional fee will be assessed per-student to cover the cost of transportation and accommodation. This course must be recorded as part of your Fall course registration. Tuition and compulsory fees will be calculated accordingly. The study tour will take place in the last week of August each year.
Prerequisite(s): 5.00 credits including DAGR*2170
Restriction(s): Instructor consent required.
Department(s): Dean's Office, Ontario Agricultural College
Location(s): Ridgetown
DAGR*3200 Corn and Oilseed Management F (3-2) [0.50]
Management systems for the production of corn, soybeans, canola and edible beans will be presented. Specific topics include variety and species selection, row widths, seeding rates, planting dates, fertility, pest management, harvesting and storage. Current research information is discussed in relationship to production practices.
Prerequisite(s): DAGR*1200, DAGR*1300
Department(s): Dean's Office, Ontario Agricultural College
Location(s): Ridgetown
DAGR*3210 Insect and Disease Management F (3-2) [0.50]
The identification, biology and control of insects and diseases of field crops are presented. Control measures and the benefits and limitations of agricultural chemicals will be examined.
Restriction(s): DAGR*1200
Department(s): Dean's Office, Ontario Agricultural College
Location(s): Ridgetown
DAGR*3250 Fruit Production F,W (2-3) [0.50]
Management systems for the major fruit crops in Ontario are discussed. Topics include climatic and soil conditions, cultural management, pruning and training.
Prerequisite(s): DAGR*1200, (DAGR*1300 or DHRT*3230)
Department(s): Dean's Office, Ontario Agricultural College
Location(s): Ridgetown
DAGR*3260 Vegetable Production F (2-3) [0.50]
This course includes commercial production and management of vegetable crops grown in Ontario. Topics discussed will include site selection, soil conditions, establishment, cultural practices, harvesting, post-harvest handling and marketing.
Prerequisite(s): DAGR*1200, (DAGR*1300 or DHRT*3230)
Department(s): Dean's Office, Ontario Agricultural College
Location(s): Ridgetown
DAGR*3350 Welding F,W (0-3) [0.50]
This is a laboratory course designed to enable students to safely handle and operate general welding equipment. Welding theory will be given during class time.
Department(s): Dean's Office, Ontario Agricultural College
Location(s): Ridgetown
DAGR*3510 Experiential Learning in Agriculture S,F,W [0.50]
Student-initiated learning opportunities can be developed as a credit course in consultation with a supervising faculty member. Details of the activities included in the program will be outlined in a learning contract initiated by the student and agreed to by the faculty supervisor prior to the commencement of the work experience.
Prerequisite(s): 4.00 credits, registration in the Diploma Program in Agriculture
Restriction(s): DAGR*3880, DFN*3510, DHRT*3510
Department(s): Dean's Office, Ontario Agricultural College
Location(s): Ridgetown
DAGR*3650 Student Managed Project F,W (1-3) [0.50]
This course provides students with practical experience in managing and possibly conducting research on an agricultural commodity. Principles learned in production, financial, and management courses can be applied in this course. Students will follow industry-defined best management practices. Finances, economics, and marketing strategies for their commodity will be discussed and practiced when applicable.
Offering(s): Last offering - Fall 2014
Prerequisite(s): 5.00 credits
Department(s): Dean's Office, Ontario Agricultural College
Location(s): Ridgetown
DAGR*3900 Special Project S,F,W (0-0) [0.50]
A self-directed student project focusing on a topic of academic and/or practical interest to the student. The student will identify and propose a detailed course outline to be reviewed and approved by the faculty supervisor prior to the commencement of the project. The project could include a research assigment, a literature review, a hands-on assignment with specific learning objectives and milestones for achieving these objectives.
Prerequisite(s): 3.00 credits, registration in the Diploma in Agriculture program, written permission of the faculty supervisor.
Restriction(s): DAGR*3910,
Restriction(s): DFN*3910,
Restriction(s): DHRT*3910
Restriction(s): Instructor consent required.
Department(s): Dean's Office, Ontario Agricultural College
Location(s): Ridgetown
DAGR*4010 Animal Health W (3-0) [0.50]
Economic animal production requires healthy livestock and this course is designed to stress animal health. Diseases important to livestock in Ontario are discussed, with emphasis being placed on prevention and control methods.
Prerequisite(s): DAGR*2000
Department(s): Dean's Office, Ontario Agricultural College
Location(s): Ridgetown
DAGR*4020 Poultry Production W (3-2) [0.50]
This course will provide students with the opportunities to learn both the principles and the skills necessary to manage and care for poultry according to industry standards. Case studies will be used to help students develop the skills necessary to assess farm related poultry management problems. Offered in odd-numbered years (Alfred)
Co-requisite(s): DAGR*2000
Department(s): Dean's Office, Ontario Agricultural College
Location(s): Ridgetown
DAGR*4040 Small Ruminant Production F,W (3-2) [0.50]
This course includes goat and sheep production and is studied with examples from Ontario and around the world. The major topics include: production systems, breeding, nutrition, health and welfare and products. Offered in odd-numbered years (Alfred)
Prerequisite(s): DAGR*1000, DAGR*2000
Department(s): Dean's Office, Ontario Agricultural College
Location(s): Ridgetown
DAGR*4100 Commodity Marketing W (3-0) [0.50]
This course provides an understanding of commodity and currency price risks for corn, beans, wheat, cattle and hogs in Ontario. It includes the practical use of instruments that are available to deal with these risks and the development of an applied risk management strategy.
Department(s): Dean's Office, Ontario Agricultural College
Location(s): Ridgetown
DAGR*4120 Dairy Production II W (3-2) [0.50]
This course covers advanced aspect of dairy nutrition and breeding strategies. Students learn to develop practical and economical feeding programs for calves, heifers, dry and milking cows. Students will complete an in-depth study of selection strategies and reproductive technologies (artificial insemination, embryo transfer) available to Ontario dairy producers.
Offering(s): First offering - Winter 2015
Prerequisite(s): DAGR*3010
Department(s): Dean's Office, Ontario Agricultural College
Location(s): Ridgetown
DAGR*4150 Renewable Energy & Agriculture F,W (3-2) [0.50]
This course will introduce students to the current energy situation, energy use in agriculture, the impacts of energy production and use on the environment, and renewable energy opportunities for the rural community. Types of bioenergy crops will be described, including agronomic, handling, storage, transportation and end-use issues. Heat and power production technologies and how these integrate into agriculture and rural communities will be discussed. Environmental assessment, economics, and market opportunities of renewable energy production and use will be explored.
Department(s): Dean's Office, Ontario Agricultural College
Location(s): Ridgetown
DAGR*4180 Cattle Herd Management F,W (2-3) [0.50]
This course is designed to give students the skills necessary to manage the daily operations of a cattle herd. these skills will include monitoring the health of calves and cows, proper milking techniques, breeding techniques, and hoof trimming. Using real herd production data, students will analyze the current production and management practices on cattle operations to identify areas of improvement. Using on farm data and observation, students will recommend changes to the operation including immediate (eg. culling, breeding decisions) and longer term plans (updating facilities or expansion) to improve operation efficiency and profit.
Prerequisite(s): DAGR*2000
Co-requisite(s): DAGR*3010
Department(s): Dean's Office, Ontario Agricultural College
Location(s): Ridgetown
DAGR*4190 Ruminant Nutrition W (3-2) [0.50]
This course expands on ruminant nutrition principle. Students will learn to develop practical and economical rations and feeding programs for ruminant livestock.
Prerequisite(s): DAGR*3000 or DAGR*3010
Co-requisite(s): DAGR*4040
Department(s): Dean's Office, Ontario Agricultural College
Location(s): Ridgetown
DAGR*4200 Cropping Systems W (2-2) [0.50]
Current and emerging crop production systems will be compared and evaluated in relationship to soil productivity, environmental awareness and the agricultural economy. Climate and weather and their impact on crop production is examined. Specialized production systems including strip tillage, seed production and organic production will be included.
Prerequisite(s): DAGR*1200
Department(s): Dean's Office, Ontario Agricultural College
Location(s): Ridgetown
DAGR*4210 Crop Diagnostics and Recommendations W (2-2) [0.50]
This course provides a comprehensive study of weeds, insects and diseases of field crops. Case studies are used to develop problem-solving skills. Pest management control strategies are identified. Students will develop the skills and knowledge to assist in over-the-counter and on-farm pest management recommendations.
Prerequisite(s): DAGR*2210 or DAGR*3210
Department(s): Dean's Office, Ontario Agricultural College
Location(s): Ridgetown
DAGR*4220 Organic Production F,W (2-2) [0.50]
This course provides a study of the basic concepts of organic agricultural production, including production techniques in field and greenhouse crops and farm animals, produce certification, and marketing.
Prerequisite(s): DAGR*1000, DAGR*1200, DAGR*1300
Department(s): Dean's Office, Ontario Agricultural College
Location(s): Ridgetown
DAGR*4350 Farm Structures and Environment W (3-2) [0.50]
This course provides an introduction to basic engineering principles related to livestock facilities and their environment. Students will gain a basic understanding of how to initiate the planning of a livestock structure or an environmental control system, including ventilation and manure storage. Environmental regulations concerning manure storage and handling will be discussed. Offered in odd-numbered years (Alfred)
Prerequisite(s): Minimum of 5.00 credits, including DAGR*1600
Department(s): Dean's Office, Ontario Agricultural College
Location(s): Ridgetown
DAGR*4450 Student Managed Enterprise II W (3-0) [0.50]
This is a hands-on entrepreneurial course that provides students with developing and operating an enterprise. In this course students implement the business model developed in Student Managed Enterprise I. Students are responsible for the day-to-day operations of the enterprise, including all aspects of production, marketing, and distribution of the product.
Prerequisite(s): DAGR*3450
Department(s): Dean's Office, Ontario Agricultural College
Location(s): Ridgetown
DAGR*4600 Human Resource Management F,W (3-2) [0.50]
Students will learn the theoretical and practical skills of management and interacting with people. Topics will include recruiting, supervising, motivation, training employees, effective listening, dealing with difficult people, group dynamics and leadership skills.
Department(s): Dean's Office, Ontario Agricultural College
Location(s): Ridgetown
DAGR*4610 Business Project W (4-0) [0.50]
Students will identify a viable product or service, and will undertake a comprehensive study of the technical and economic aspects of a business designed to sell that product. Students will acquire basic information about the product, define their business and develop a business plan.
Prerequisite(s): 7.50 credits, including DAGR*2020
Department(s): Dean's Office, Ontario Agricultural College
Location(s): Ridgetown
DAGR*4650 Farm Project W (4-0) [0.50]
This course provides a comprehensive analysis of a farm business. The students will be responsible for acquiring basic information about the enterprise, analyzing its strengths and weaknesses and developing a 3 year financial projection based on a major development plan.
Offering(s): First offering - Winter 2015
Prerequisite(s): DAGR*2020, 7.50 credits
Equate(s): DAGR*4620
Restriction(s): DAGR*4450,
Restriction(s): DAGR*4610
Department(s): Dean's Office, Ontario Agricultural College
Location(s): Ridgetown
University of Guelph
50 Stone Road East
Guelph, Ontario, N1G 2W1
Canada
519-824-4120