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.
Programs of Study
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 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.