Harvest Christian University Agriculture Department

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 RANCHING AND FARM MANAGEMENT
This program immerses students in the daily realities and long-term strategies of running a successful ranch or farm. Beyond foundational animal and crop care, students learn to develop grazing rotation plans, manage labor, and implement record-keeping systems for herd health and land use. The curriculum also addresses risk assessment for weather, markets, and disease, along with the use of digital management tools and farm software. Students graduate with the ability to oversee diverse operations, manage budgets, and make data-driven decisions that support both profitability and ecological health. 

 CROP PRODUCTION AND AGRONOMY
Students in this program explore the full crop lifecycle, from seed selection and soil testing to post-harvest storage and marketing. They gain hands-on experience with the latest planting and harvesting machinery, learn to interpret satellite and drone imagery for crop monitoring, and practice integrated pest management. The program also covers crop rotation planning, cover cropping, and the use of organic and synthetic fertilizers, preparing students to boost yields while maintaining soil fertility and environmental compliance. 

 AGRICULTURAL ELECTRICAL SYSTEMS
This program provides in-depth training on the installation and maintenance of electrical systems in agricultural settings, such as automated feeding lines, greenhouse climate controls, and grain storage monitoring. Students learn to read electrical schematics, install backup generators, and maintain solar and wind energy systems increasingly used on modern farms. Emphasis is placed on electrical safety, energy efficiency, and adapting systems for expansion or new technologies 

 WELDING AND FABRICATION
Welding and fabrication students develop the ability to construct and repair custom farm equipment, livestock handling facilities, and metal storage structures. They gain expertise in multiple welding techniques as well as blueprint reading, metal cutting, and corrosion prevention. The program encourages innovation, with students often designing and building solutions for unique operational challenges, such as mobile fencing systems or specialized trailers. 

 AGRICULTURAL BUSINESS AND MARKETING
This program offers a deep dive into the financial and strategic side of agriculture. Students learn to analyze market trends, develop business plans, secure financing, and navigate agricultural insurance. The curriculum includes commodity trading, direct-to-consumer sales, and value-added product development. Students also study regulatory compliance, grant writing, and digital marketing, equipping them to grow profitable, resilient businesses. . 

 SOIL AND WATER CONSERVATION
This program focuses on practical and scientific methods for preserving and enhancing natural resources. Students learn to implement erosion control measures, construct terraces and buffer strips, and restore native vegetation. They use GIS mapping to assess land health and plan conservation projects, and study the impact of agricultural practices on water quality and biodiversity. Graduates are prepared to advise landowners and agencies on sustainable land management.  

WILDLIFE AND LAND MANAGEMENT
This program integrates agricultural production with wildlife habitat conservation. Students learn to design grazing and cropping systems that support biodiversity, manage invasive species, and create habitat for pollinators and native wildlife. The curriculum includes land restoration, prescribed burning, and compliance with conservation easements and incentive programs. Graduates are prepared to work with private landowners, government agencies, and conservation organizations to balance agricultural productivity with ecological health.

Each program is tailored to the unique challenges and opportunities of Texas agriculture, giving students the expertise and adaptability needed for long-term success and leadership in the field.

HORTICULTURE – GROWING BEAUTY, NOURISHING COMMUNITIES

Horticulture is a vital agricultural trade that combines the science and art of cultivating fruits, vegetables, nuts, ornamental plants, and flowers. In Texas, this field plays a crucial role not only in food production but also in landscaping, nursery management, and urban agriculture. Students in the horticulture program gain comprehensive knowledge of plant biology, soil health, greenhouse operations, pest and disease management, and efficient irrigation techniques. The curriculum emphasizes sustainable growing practices and includes hands-on experience in plant propagation, landscape design, turf management, and small-scale farming. Graduates are well-prepared for diverse careers in nurseries, greenhouses, landscaping firms, botanical gardens, and local food production.