The agricultural sector is a highly competitive industry creating new challenges in identifying global and domestic markets; improving business planning, financing, risk management, and productivity; and reducing costs. Advances in science and technology, in particular biotechnology and agribusiness, will continue to drive innovation and growth in this career cluster. Growing public concerns over natural resources, environmental quality, and public health will continue to expand the role and scope of the natural resource management and environmental services sectors.
Curriculum for Agricultural Science Education (CASE)
The Curriculum for Agricultural Science Education (CASE) is a national program of study that offers students a rigorous curriculum designed to challenge students to perform at high levels. Through the use of activities, projects, and problem-solving, students explore agriculture subject matter while they learn the necessary knowledge and skills. To establish these requirements, CASE incorporates the National Academic Standards and Agriculture Food and Natural Resources (AFNR) Content Standards. Case consists of four possible pathways: Animal Science, Plant Science, Natural Resources and Ecology, and Agricultural Power and Technology. Each pathway consists of a four-course sequence that offers students the opportunity to earn college credit upon successful program completion. Local school systems determine which pathways will be offered. For more information about CASE, please see the program highlight.
Horticultural Services: Certified Professional Horticulturist (CPH)
The Horticultural Services program of study is based on requirements for the Certified Professional Horticulturist (CPH) certification used by the Maryland “Green Industry.” Students complete a sequence of courses which include: Introduction to Environmental/Plant/Animal Science (optional), Foundations of Horticulture, Plant Production, and Landscape Design and Management. Students have the opportunity to earn the Student-Level CPH certification by taking and passing the industry exam.
Curriculum for Agricultural Science Education (CASE)
In this program, students learn about all aspects of agricultural sciences and may take additional courses based on their area of interest. The following courses are offered as part of the program:
Introduction to Agriculture, Food and Natural Resources
Principles of Agricultural Sciences - Plant
Principles of Agricultural Sciences - Animal
Principles of Agricultural Sciences - Natural Resources and Ecology
Principles of Agricultural Sciences - Agricultural Power and Technology
Specialization - Animal and Plant Biotechnology
Specialization - Food Science and Safety
Specialization - Environmental Science Issues
Specialization - Mechanical Systems in Agriculture
Agricultural Business, Research and Development