Master of Science (M.S.) Major in Integrated Agricultural Sciences (Professional Option)

AG 5100. Professional Development.

This course introduces graduate students to essential concepts and practices for effective college-level teaching and professional growth in the agricultural sciences. The course provides structured preparation for teaching and instructional assistants, emphasizing instructional planning, classroom management, student engagement, and assessment of learning outcomes. Participants receive regular in-service training and mentorship designed to support their instructional responsibilities. The course also includes periodic evaluations of teaching performance and opportunities for feedback and reflection. This course ultimately supports the development of effective, responsible, and reflective educators.

AG 5101. Research Experience.

This course provides students with an opportunity to engage in focused, independent research within their area of study. Students explore emergent topics that arise from initial investigations, allowing for the development of novel questions, experimental approaches, and analytical strategies. Emphasis is placed on critical thinking, experimental design, data collection, interpretation of findings, and dissemination of scientific outcomes. Students integrate literature, theory, methodology, and communication to produce meaningful research outcomes that advance their field of study.

AG 5113. Summer Programs in Agricultural Education.

This course provides students with field experiences in summer agricultural education programming within secondary school settings. Students receive individualized instruction during supervised visits while they are engaged in their field experience. The course includes program planning and educating diverse student learning populations. Students attend the Texas FFA Convention where they explore sessions, attend planning sessions, and develop strategies for engaging and supervising secondary students in a summer inter-curricular experience. Students also attend the state agricultural teachers association conference where they attend area meetings, participate in professional development sessions, and work directly with mentor teachers to develop professional engagement strategies. Prerequisite: AG 5212 with a grade of C or better.

AG 5120. Aquaponic Internship.

This course provides graduate students with hands-on experience in aquaponic production systems. Students complete 64 hours of supervised internship at an aquaponic facility, gaining practical skills in system design, operation, and maintenance. Emphasis is placed on integrating aquaculture and hydroponic principles to optimize plant and fish productivity while maintaining water quality and system health. Students engage in daily management tasks, monitoring environmental and biological parameters, and applying problem-solving strategies to real-world operational challenges. The internship prepares students to apply technical knowledge and professional competencies in sustainable food production systems.

AG 5199B. Thesis B.

This course provides graduate students with structured enrollment while actively completing their thesis research and writing. Students continue to develop, conduct, and analyze original research under faculty supervision until the thesis is finalized and submitted for binding. Emphasis is placed on independent scholarly work, critical evaluation of results, and application of research methods appropriate to the student’s discipline. Students are expected to demonstrate steady progress, adhere to academic and ethical standards, and prepare a professional-quality thesis document.

AG 5212. Program Building.

This course focuses on program and curriculum development in career and technical education within agricultural education settings. Students determine program and curriculum goals and objectives, implement programs, and evaluate curriculum. The course also addresses Supervised Agricultural Experience (SAE) program development and supervision of SAE projects at the local, county, and state levels. Students explore FFA advisement, financial planning, and program management. Additional emphasis is placed on planning, conducting, and evaluating Career Development Events and Leadership Development Events.

AG 5299B. Thesis B.

This course provides graduate students with structured enrollment while actively completing their thesis research and writing. Students continue to develop, conduct, and analyze original research under faculty supervision until the thesis is finalized and submitted for binding. Emphasis is placed on independent scholarly work, critical evaluation of results, and application of research methods appropriate to the student’s discipline. Students are expected to demonstrate steady progress, adhere to academic and ethical standards, and prepare a professional-quality thesis document.

AG 5300. Applied Statistics and Econometrics for Agriculture.

This course introduces statistical and econometric methods used to analyze agricultural and applied economic data. Emphasis is placed on data analysis, modeling techniques, and statistical inference relevant to agricultural production, markets, and policy evaluation. Students learn fundamental statistical tools used in agricultural research, including probability distributions, sampling methods, principles of estimation, and hypothesis testing. General linear models, multiple regression analysis, and qualitative response models are also covered. Emphasis is placed on interpreting empirical results and applying quantitative methods to real-world agricultural problems using agricultural datasets and analytical software.

AG 5301. Agricultural Development and Policy.

This course covers contemporary issues shaping agricultural systems in the United States and globally. It integrates agricultural policy analysis, natural resource development, welfare economics, and applied economic tools to evaluate food and rural development challenges. Emphasis is placed on the design, implementation, and impacts of public policies affecting producers, consumers, and rural communities. Topics include integrated agricultural and rural development strategies, food and nutrition security, commodity market dynamics, farm programs, and domestic and international trade policy. Students develop analytical skills to assess policy alternatives and their economic and social implications.

AG 5302. Economics of Agricultural Production.

This course covers economic theory and quantitative analysis of agricultural production processes. Topics include traditional neo-classical theory of the firm, duality theory, resource allocation, production selection, scale of operation of agricultural firms, and risk and uncertainty associated with agricultural production. Students apply optimization techniques and econometric methods to evaluate input allocation, profit maximization, and resource use in agricultural systems. Emphasis is placed on linking production theory to real-world farm management and policy issues through empirical applications and data analysis.

AG 5303. Agricultural Marketing and Price Analysis.

This course covers marketing systems and price formation in agricultural and food markets. Topics include supply and demand analysis, market structure, price discovery, elasticity, marketing margins, futures markets, and risk management tools. Students apply quantitative methods to analyze commodity price behavior and evaluate marketing strategies for agricultural producers and agribusiness firms, as well as market legislation and market development. Emphasis is placed on interpreting market data, assessing policy impacts, and developing evidence-based marketing and pricing decisions in domestic and global agricultural markets.

AG 5304. Economics of Sustainable Natural Resource Management.

This course covers the economic principles and quantitative methods used to analyze natural resource management and environmental issues. Topics include resource scarcity, externalities, renewable and nonrenewable resource allocation, intertemporal optimization, market failure, and policy instruments such as taxes, subsidies, and tradable permits. Methods of environmental evaluation are introduced. Students apply economic theory and empirical tools to assess resource management strategies and evaluate policy approaches in terms of efficiency, equity, and long-term environmental outcomes.

AG 5310. Research Methods in Integrated Agricultural Sciences.

This course introduces students to research methodologies and analytical approaches used in integrated agricultural sciences. Topics include experimental design, development of conceptual models, survey and data collection instruments, and techniques for analyzing and synthesizing scientific literature. Students learn to plan and execute research projects with rigor, including hypothesis formulation, statistical and qualitative data analysis, and interpretation of results. Emphasis is placed on applying these methods to interdisciplinary agricultural research questions, fostering critical thinking, problem-solving, and scholarly communication in both applied and theoretical contexts.

AG 5311. Instructional Methods for Career and Technology Educators.

This course focuses on instructional techniques, strategies, and methods appropriate to the effective teaching of career and technology subjects including application in the areas of instructional planning, age appropriate teaching, organizing and evaluating learning activities, lesson preparation, diagnosis of learner differences, and the ethical and legal aspects of teaching. Teaching special populations and in changing environments will also be covered. Emphasis will be placed on student engagement strategies and student evaluation techniques used in secondary schools.

AG 5320. Integrated Agricultural Production in Aquaponic Systems.

This course examines integrated crop and fish production in aquaponic systems, emphasizing sustainable and efficient management practices. Students explore water quality monitoring, nutrient cycling, pest and disease management, and system design considerations to optimize plant and animal growth. Economic, marketing, and operational aspects of aquaponic enterprises are addressed. The course compares aquaponic production to soil-based cropping, hydroponics, and traditional aquaculture, highlighting the interactions between fish, crops, and microbial communities. Students gain theoretical and applied knowledge for managing integrated systems that balance productivity, sustainability, and resource efficiency.

AG 5323. Composting and Integrated Resource Management.

This course provides students with both theoretical knowledge and hands-on experience in the production, management, and utilization of composts, vermicomposts, and other organic amendments. Topics include the design and operation of composting systems, nutrient cycling, waste reduction, product quality assessment, and strategies for marketing compost-related products. The course also addresses broader non-renewable natural resource concerns, including practices related to soil, water, and energy use in agricultural systems. Laboratory and field experiences complement lecture material to develop practical skills in organic resource management and environmental production practices.

AG 5324. Agroecology and Integrated Agriculture.

This course explores ecological principles as they apply to agricultural production systems. Students examine agroecosystem structure and function, nutrient and energy flows, biodiversity, and system interactions. Topics include diversified production systems, integrated crop–livestock systems, resource use efficiency, and risk management within agricultural enterprises. The course evaluates approaches to agricultural sustainability, system resilience, and adaptive management across varying scales of production, including small and mid-sized operations. Emphasis is placed on applying ecological concepts to the design and management of integrated agricultural systems.

AG 5326. Advanced Animal Science of Ruminants.

This course examines scientific and technological developments influencing ruminant animal production systems. Students study advances in management practices, health programs, nutrition strategies, genetic improvement, and physiological performance of various ruminant species with a focus on beef cattle, dairy cattle, sheep, and goats. Emphasis is placed on integrating biological principles with production technologies to improve efficiency, product quality, and operational sustainability. Additional topics include reproductive management, disease prevention, performance evaluation, and marketing considerations within ruminant systems.

AG 5343. Organization & Management for Laboratory Programs.

This course focuses on instructional programs involving laboratory equipment and facilities. Curriculum, teaching methods, equipment, and facility management practices including various aspects of safety, tool management, inventory, and security are emphasized along with facilities layout planning. Emphasis will be placed on theories in leadership development, the organization of youth groups in secondary school systems, and cooperative extension. Students develop standard operating procedures, policies, and laboratory management strategies when working with novice learners in an applied, hands-on environment.

AG 5350. Foundations of Ethics and Leadership in Agriculture.

This course examines ethics and leadership principles in agricultural contexts, with emphasis on their application in professional settings. Topics include ethical frameworks, leadership theory, and decision-making processes within agricultural systems. Students analyze ethical considerations in agricultural practices and evaluate leadership approaches in a range of professional scenarios. The course also addresses communication and teamwork in the context of ethical issues, including analysis of differing perspectives on emerging agricultural topics.

AG 5351. Grant Development and Management.

This course provides students with the knowledge and skills necessary to identify and secure external funding for agricultural research, teaching, and extension initiatives. Topics include locating funding opportunities, understanding agency priorities, and developing competitive proposals that may involve multi-, cross-, and inter-disciplinary collaborations. Students learn to create comprehensive grant applications, including objectives, budgets, timelines, and evaluation plans. Emphasis is placed on proposal writing, project implementation strategies, and assessment of outcomes. The course prepares students to develop professionally credible, fundable projects that meet the expectations of funding agencies and advance agricultural science initiatives.

AG 5352. Program Development and Evaluation.

This course covers the development and evaluation of agricultural science programs within educational and outreach contexts, including school systems and extension programs. Topics include program planning, design, implementation, evaluation, and accountability across agricultural disciplines. Students conduct and report research by applying educational processes, research methods, data analysis, and statistical techniques to communicate findings to diverse audiences.

AG 5354. Instructional Design in Agricultural Education.

This course covers principles and practices in developing curricula for agricultural education. Topics include the influence of social and technological change on curriculum planning and implementation in agricultural sciences. The course examines instructional design models from both pedagogical and andragogical perspectives. It also introduces theories and models used to design print-based, web-based, and multimedia instructional materials. Students develop evaluation strategies to assess instructional effectiveness in a variety of educational settings.

AG 5355. Methods of Technological Change.

This course examines the dynamics of social change and social networks as a framework for understanding technological change in agriculture. Topics include methods for planning and implementing change, analysis of impacts on agricultural systems and industries, and approaches for anticipating change outcomes. The course also addresses the diffusion of innovation, communication processes, and the role of interdisciplinary knowledge in agricultural innovation systems.

AG 5360. Advancements in Animal Science.

This course provides a comprehensive survey of contemporary knowledge, concepts, and innovations in animal production. Students examine current research and practical applications in breeding, feeding, health management, and reproductive technologies across livestock species. Emphasis is placed on evaluating economic considerations, industry challenges, and production problems affecting efficiency, sustainability, and profitability. Students integrate scientific principles with emerging technologies to understand their impact on modern livestock enterprises. The course encourages critical analysis of recent literature, problem-solving approaches, and strategic decision-making to address contemporary issues in animal production systems.

AG 5361. Food Technology and Meat Science.

This course provides a comprehensive examination of meat science and food technology in the context of modern livestock production. Students explore the science of muscle biology, meat processing, preservation, and safety, along with the evaluation of wholesale and retail cuts of beef, pork, lamb, and poultry. Product types include fresh, cooked, smoked, grilled, and pickled items. Emphasis is placed on laboratory instrumentation, analytical techniques, and quality assessment. Students also investigate consumer preferences, product presentation, and economic considerations, integrating scientific principles with applied production, processing, and market-based decision-making.

AG 5362. Advanced Animal Science: Minerals and Vitamins in Animal Nutrition.

This course provides an advanced study of mineral and vitamin nutrition in livestock, including ruminant and non-ruminant species. Students examine absorption, metabolism, and physiological functions of essential vitamins and minerals, as well as species-specific requirements and interactions. Emphasis is placed on predicting animal performance, health, and productivity based on nutrient utilization. Students integrate current research with practical applications, including diet formulation, supplementation strategies, and evaluation of nutritional interventions in relation to growth, reproduction, and production efficiency in livestock systems.

AG 5363. Animal Molecular Genetics.

This course introduces the molecular biology that governs genetic variation and gene function in livestock. Students examine epigenetic and molecular genetics alongside modern genomic technologies, including microarrays, digital PCR, transcriptomics, and next-generation sequencing. Applications focus on identifying genes and genetic markers associated with economically important traits, pregnancy, and reproductive performance. Genomic selection, cloning, epigenetics, transgenics, and the design of trials used to link genetic variation to livestock productivity are also covered. Emphasis is placed on practical tools and biological concepts that support genetic improvement in animal agriculture.

AG 5364. Biology of Reproduction in Farm Animals.

This course provides an advanced exploration of reproductive processes in animal agriculture, emphasizing the biochemical and physiological mechanisms that regulate fertility in livestock and poultry. Students examine molecular principles underlying reproductive function, including gene expression, hormone signaling, and endocrine regulation involved in gametogenesis, estrous cycles, fertilization, pregnancy, and parturition. The course also covers reproductive physiology in livestock, including endocrinology and neuroendocrinology, with attention to current scientific literature in the field.

AG 5365. The Role of Animal Science in Society: An Integrated Approach.

This course explores the complex and evolving relationship between animals, humans, and society through an integrated, multidisciplinary lens. Students examine the historical development of domesticated animals and their influence on human civilization, cultural practices, and global food systems. The course examines the roles of animal agriculture in economic systems, environmental contexts, and community livelihoods, while also addressing ethical, policy, and social debates that shape modern animal production. Through analysis of emerging technologies, public perceptions, and the impact of legislation and industry standards, students examine issues related to animal welfare, sustainability, food systems, and global trade.

AG 5370. Special Problems in Technical Agriculture.

This course allows graduate students to pursue individualized, advanced projects in technical aspects of agricultural sciences. Projects are selected in consultation with faculty to align with each student’s research interests, professional goals, or emerging topics in agriculture. Students may engage in research, applied problem-solving, technical evaluations, or literature-based investigations. Emphasis is placed on independent learning, critical thinking, and practical application of discipline-specific knowledge. Students are expected to produce a final report or project demonstrating mastery of the selected topic and the ability to synthesize and communicate technical information effectively.

AG 5372. Agricultural Electricity and Mechanical Systems.

This course develops an understanding of electrical terms, safety procedures, and cost considerations related to electricity and electrical systems. The application of electrical wiring, controls, and motors through testing, selection, and wiring of electrical devices will be studied. Students measure electrical amperage, voltage, and wattage through the use of electrical testing equipment. Students also learn safety protocols for electrical and mechanical systems and install complete electrical circuits including lights, switches, and receptacles that meet National Electric Code requirements.

AG 5390. Foundational Studies in Agriculture.

This course provides graduate students with foundational knowledge and skills to support advanced agricultural coursework. Content is tailored to meet the academic preparation of individual students and may include basic principles of crop and animal sciences, soil science, agricultural economics, or research methods. The course focuses on developing conceptual and practical understanding of key agricultural topics, problem-solving, and application of core principles. The course is repeatable up to 9 credit hours with different emphasis but does not count toward graduate degree requirements and serves as preparation for subsequent graduate-level courses.

AG 5391. Agro-Climatology.

This course examines climatic processes and their influence on agricultural systems. Topics include atmospheric composition, energy balance, precipitation patterns, and the hydrologic cycle, with emphasis on water availability and surface hydrology. Students evaluate historical and projected climate variability and its implications for crop and livestock production. Additional topics include atmospheric carbon dioxide and water vapor dynamics, agricultural water resource management, and policy considerations affecting production systems. The course also explores geographic shifts in crop suitability and agricultural adaptation strategies in response to changing climatic conditions.

AG 5398. Professional Paper.

This course provides non-thesis graduate students the opportunity to produce a professional paper of publishable quality in an area of agricultural sciences. Students conduct in-depth literature reviews, synthesize relevant research, and develop original arguments or analyses. Emphasis is placed on scientific writing, critical thinking, data interpretation, and adherence to publication standards. Students are expected to produce a polished manuscript suitable for submission to a peer-reviewed journal or professional venue, demonstrating the student’s ability to communicate complex agricultural concepts effectively and professionally. Prerequisite: Instructor approval.

AG 5399A. Thesis A.

This course represents the initial enrollment for graduate students beginning their thesis in Integrated Agricultural Sciences. Students develop a comprehensive research proposal, conduct original investigations, and begin data collection under the guidance of a faculty advisor. Emphasis is placed on identifying research questions, applying research methodologies, critically analyzing data, and adhering to ethical and professional standards in scholarship. Students are expected to plan, execute, and document their research effectively, setting the foundation for subsequent thesis completion.

AG 5399B. Thesis B.

This course provides graduate students with structured enrollment while actively completing their thesis research and writing. Students continue to develop, conduct, and analyze original research under faculty supervision until the thesis is finalized and submitted for binding. Emphasis is placed on independent scholarly work, critical evaluation of results, and application of research methods appropriate to the student’s discipline. Students are expected to demonstrate steady progress, adhere to academic and ethical standards, and prepare a professional-quality thesis document.

AG 5402. Soil and Crop Mycology.

This course examines the roles of mycorrhizal fungi in agroecosystems and their influence on crop nutrition, soil health, and ecological processes. Topics include the biology and ecology of endomycorrhizae and ectomycorrhizae, interactions with plant pathology, soil aggregation, and mineral cycling, and the contribution of fungi to crop production systems described as sustainable or regenerative. Laboratory exercises focus on fungal identification, morphology, and inoculation of crop roots to evaluate functional relationships. The course integrates theoretical and practical approaches to understand how fungal communities support soil and crop productivity within managed agricultural systems.

AG 5403. Crop Physiology.

This course examines the physiological and morphological responses of crop plants to both normal and adverse growth conditions. Students explore mechanisms underlying plant growth, development, and productivity, with emphasis on responses to environmental stressors such as drought, flooding, temperature extremes, and variable growing degree days. Additional topics include the effects of nutrient limitations, soil conditions, and disease on crop performance. The course integrates concepts from plant physiology, biochemistry, and ecology to evaluate how environmental and management factors influence crop growth, resilience, and yield.

AG 5404. Rhizosphere Ecology.

This course examines the ecology and functioning of the rhizosphere, the soil region directly influenced by plant roots. Topics include rhizophagy, microbial root colonization, root exudates, carbon cycling, allelochemistry, plant–plant signaling, and nutrient transfer between soil microbes and crops. Students explore root growth and elongation responses to the presence or absence of microbial communities. The course integrates current research and laboratory findings to understand how interactions among roots, microbes, and soil influence plant health, nutrient acquisition, and productivity.

AG 5408. Range Synecology.

This course examines the interactions among range plant species and their influence on ecosystem structure and function. Topics include plant competition, allelochemistry, kairomone and phytotoxin signaling, and woody plant encroachment. Students explore principles of resilience, succession, climax communities, and ecosystem recovery following disturbance. The course examines range recovery approaches, ecosystem services, and the effects of plant interactions on livestock production and management. Students evaluate ecological relationships and their implications for rangeland systems, integrating concepts from plant ecology, soil science, and applied agriculture.

AG 5426. Soil Health and Development.

This course examines fundamental processes governing soil health and soil development within agricultural and natural resource systems. Topics include pedogenesis, mineral composition, soil physical properties, biological activity, and ecosystem functions influencing soil performance over time. Students evaluate the effects of tillage, land management, and environmental conditions on soil structure, nutrient cycling, and long-term productivity. The course integrates soil physics, chemistry, and biology to analyze soil function and sustainability. Students develop analytical skills for interpreting soil processes and evaluating management approaches in soil systems.

AG 5599B. Thesis B.

This course provides graduate students with structured enrollment while actively completing their thesis research and writing. Students continue to develop, conduct, and analyze original research under faculty supervision until the thesis is finalized and submitted for binding. Emphasis is placed on independent scholarly work, critical evaluation of results, and application of research methods appropriate to the student’s discipline. Students are expected to demonstrate steady progress, adhere to academic and ethical standards, and prepare a professional-quality thesis document.

AG 5999B. Thesis B.

This course provides graduate students with structured enrollment while actively completing their thesis research and writing. Students continue to develop, conduct, and analyze original research under faculty supervision until the thesis is finalized and submitted for binding. Emphasis is placed on independent scholarly work, critical evaluation of results, and application of research methods appropriate to the student’s discipline. Students are expected to demonstrate steady progress, adhere to academic and ethical standards, and prepare a professional-quality thesis document.