The program prepares students who are engaged in, or who are in the process of becoming established in, farming. As the business of farming continues to change, the challenge becomes one of finding the best source of good farm management education. The practical “hands on” applications taught in the Farm Operations and Management courses enable students to make sound management decisions based on financial analysis and production information, utilizing computer applications.

The program is scheduled for two abbreviated semesters from early November through late March for two consecutive years. This enables the students to be on the farm during the production year.

Learning Outcomes

1. Student will demonstrate effective oral and written communication with respect for diversity of culture, age, and gender in business situations.
2. Student will create and maintain accurate computerized business records for farming operations.
3. Student will maintain internal relationships.
4. Student will exercise ethical and legal guidelines to resolve business issues.
5. Student will integrate technological applications appropriate to current business needs.
6. Student will apply principles of Farm Business management to a farm operation.
7. Student will develop an effective estate plan.
8. Student will utilize technical skills in the farm business.

Employment Information

Most students come from communities in North Dakota and Minnesota. While many graduates return to their family farming operations, a number are also employed by farmers or hired as a farm manager. The graduates return to the farming operations with a general about all aspects of farming in northwestern Minnesota and northeastern North Dakota including production practices, financial management, marketing strategies, and technical skills used by farmers.