Agronomy (BAS)
The Bachelor in Agricultural Sciences in Agronomy aspires to train professionals in the agricultural sector, particularly in the areas of crops, animal production and entrepreneurship. The curricular design of this program includes theoretical and practical courses. In addition, elements such as entrepreneurship, research and technology are integrated into the conceptual framework of the curriculum. It is expected that graduates of this program can acquire theoretical and practical knowledge that will allow them to work in the areas of quality control, agricultural production and innovation, and environmental protection.
Program Goals
- Apply good agricultural practices as an operational management model recommended and regulated by regulatory agencies in the United States and Puerto Rico, as well as internationally.
- Use strategies to improve the quality of production techniques and the transformation process of food and agricultural products.
- Scientifically use the tools, techniques and practices necessary for the purpose of improving and transforming agricultural production systems and food processing and marketing.
- Train professionals to face challenges in food safety, by improving food production, with attention to the conservation of biodiversity and the environment.
- Promote the social and economic well-being of the country with attention to social, economic and environmental aspects.
- Develop knowledge in soil and water management, animal production, fruit and crop production, pest and disease management, post-harvest, agro-industry, agrarian economy, among others.
- Develop professionals trained in leadership, in the detection and development of new business opportunities related to the agricultural industry.
The student must approve the required major courses with a minimum grade of C.
The Guayama Campus is authorized to offer this program in person and online modality.
Competencies Profile of Graduate
The focus of the mission and philosophy of the proposed curriculum frame a vision of the graduate with a theoretical and practical education that enables them to perform successfully both professionally and personally. The educational goal of the Baccalaureate in Agricultural Sciences in Agronomy program is to prepare a graduate with the knowledge, skills and attitudes that enable him to be employed, generate agribusiness and at the same time offer a good service to society. It is intended to form an educated and competent professional, responsible and respectful for himself, his profession and society. The graduate, as a professional in the field of Agricultural Sciences in Agronomy, must be able to manifest the following knowledge, skills and attitudes:
Knowledge
- Demonstrate knowledge of the principles that govern the functioning and behavior of plants and their implications in agriculture.
- Apply theoretical and scientific principles for the improvement of food production systems, the detection and solution of agricultural problems.
- Know the aspects that influence the sowing and development of crops.
- Demonstrate knowledge about the etiology and diagnosis of diseases in plants and animals.
- Evaluate the factors responsible for animal and plant health.
- Apply scientific evidence to identify and solve agricultural problems to improve food production incorporating technological advances.
- Demonstrate knowledge and skills in the principles of management, related to the planning, organization, administration and control of agribusiness and the ability to strategically apply scientific mathematical tools in solving problems of an economic-business nature.
- Integrate a vision of risk prevention and elimination of dangers that may cause accidents, affect food safety and / or affect the environment, integrating strategic planning and other managerial and scientific tools in agricultural activity.
- Demonstrate theoretical and practical knowledge about the preventive maintenance of agricultural machinery, equipment and implements of animal and motor traction, as well as the care of draft animals used in agriculture.
- Analyze the main components of an agricultural science research and ethical principles.
Skills
- Develop technical skills for raising, feeding, habitat and caring for animals.
- Demonstrate ability to identify factors that affect planting and crop development in traditional and soilless systems.
- Demonstrate ability to use and manage agricultural equipment and implements.
- Apply techniques of fertilization, planting, pruning, prevention, treatment and control of herbs, pests and diseases.
- Design facilities for animal housing, drainage and irrigation systems in accordance with the laws, standards and regulations established in Puerto Rico among other countries in the world.
- Develop the skills to categorize and identify the main groups of plants, their morphological and reproductive characteristics.
- Apply different strategies to reduce the production of agricultural waste.
- Develop skills for the establishment and administration of agricultural companies and the marketing of agricultural products.
- Apply theoretical-practical principles for the conservation and transformation of agricultural products.
- Apply quantitative and qualitative research methods in the design of research studies in Agricultural Sciences.
Attitudes
- Take responsibility for their actions, personal and professional growth.
- Integrate ethical-legal and moral values in the performance of their duties and in the conservation of the environment.
- Develop group work skills and interpersonal relationships in work environments.
- Recognize the importance of the integration of technology in the development of agriculture.
- Demonstrate leadership and self-management skills to apply the scientific method in solving problems and in the decision-making process.
Graduation Requirements
- The student must pass the required concentration courses with a minimum grade of C.
Requirements for the Bachelor of Agricultural Science in Agronomy
| General Education Requirements |
42 credits |
| Core Requirements |
4 credits |
| Major Requirements |
80 credits |
| Elective Courses |
3 credits |
| Total |
129 credits |
General Education Requirements
Forty-two (42) credits are required as explained in the section “General Education Requirements for Bachelors’ Degrees.” Students are exempt from taking courses from the category Scientific and Technological Context and course GEEC 2000 - Entrepreneurial Culture.
Core Requirements
| PHYS 1013 | General Physics and its Applications | 4 |
Major Requirements