College of Agriculture & Natural Resources Institute of Agricultural Technology

The Fruit and Vegetable Crop Management program at community college partners provides students an opportunity to apply practical knowledge and training to the selection, use and management of fruit and vegetable crops.

The program combines classroom instruction and theory with practical experience gained through field laboratories and an internship. Graduates of the program are prepared for careers in the production of fruit and vegetable crops and management of farming operations.

Areas of study include:

• Farm management
• Agricultural compliance and safety
• Soil science
• Training and pruning plants
• Plant pathology
• Irrigation systems

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Career Opportunities

Following graduation, students earn a certificate an associate degree from the related community college preparing them for the job market. If interested, students can also transfer into Michigan State University to earn a related bachelor's degree.

Graduates find careers in a variety of horticultural, farming and crop production industries based on their interests.

Some career paths include:

• Farming operations
• Crop production and management
• Urban Farming
• Greenhouse Production
• Farm Owner

Academics

The Fruit and Vegetable Crop Management certificate program is based at several partner community colleges:

• Muskegon Community College, Muskegon
• Northwestern Michigan College, Traverse City
• Southwestern Michigan College, Dowagiac
• Wayne County Community College District -- Downriver, Taylor
• West Shore Community College, Scottville

Program requirements:

• 60 credits (minimum of 30 MSU credits)
• 3-4 semesters of classroom instruction
• 1 semester off-campus internship

Learn more about the MSU requirements and courses in Fruit and Vegetable Crop Management certificate program.

Class sizes are small and students receive individualized instruction in addition to experiences at local facilities.

Internships

IAT coordinators help students find and secure organizations to mentor them as part of their required certificate program internship. Not only does this provide immediate on-the-job experience, but internships also help with networking and industry connections.

Program Coordinators

For more information or to schedule a visit, contact the Fruit and Vegetable Crop Management program coordinator based on the community college of your choice.