All PGSAS students take core courses plus two to three electives. Core courses are often involve more than one type of class plus laboratory experiences. The Independent Study Project (ISP) is a central activity in the curriculum. Course offerings are revised each year, and ISP projects depend on current professional research being undertaken at the Penn State College of Agricultural Sciences. Recent core course themes have included:
Core Course Themes:
- Agricultural Economics and Agribusiness: Introductory courses concerning the principles of economics, world trade and business management.
- Animal Science: Classes in anatomy, genetic engineering, reproductive science, uses of animals in research and animal welfare.
- Agricultural and Biological Engineering: Environmental, biological, food, recycling and wood engineering.
- Food Science: The application of science and technology of the processing, packaging and distribution of food products from the farm to the consumer.
- Environmental and Natural Resource Conservation: Indoors and outdoors, lectures, projects and discussions related to community and environmental issues, wildlife, water studies and forestry.
- Plant Science and Tissue Culture: Creative problem-solving related to plant production and management.
- Cultural and Creative Studies: Unique workshops look at how culture influences the behaviors and choices that shape human resources. Other activities help students enhance their scientific thinking through creative processes. All students maintain personal e-portfolios and reflective journals.
- Community Awareness: Through interactive, hands-on learning experiences, students develop an awareness of issues that directly affect their lives. Emphasis is placed on the development of knowledge and skills appropriate for taking an active part in decision-making within their local communities and the world around them.
Research Opportunities - The Independent Study Project (ISP): Students select a research project from a varied list of current professional research at the Pennsylvania State University College of Agricultural Sciences. The professor conducting the activity and graduate assistants serve as mentors to PGSAS students. PGSAS students use scientific research methodology, including problem identification, resource selection, project design and formal presentation.
Computer Laboratory: Students take a course in computer solutions to assist them in research and presentation.
Electives: Elective offerings vary from year to year. Recent courses have included soil and water conservation, insect management, environmental resource engineering, toxicology, meat science, veterinary science, agroecology and plant tissue culture.
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