The academic content and curriculum of the Viticulture Associate Degree Program aims to provide students with a comprehensive education in viticulture. This education includes basic sciences as well as viticulture-specific courses and practical trainings. The curriculum is generally divided into two main parts: Basic courses and field courses.
Basic Courses: These courses provide students with knowledge in the sciences that form the basis of viticulture. Courses such as general biology, chemistry, soil science and plant physiology are included in this category. These courses help students understand the biological and chemical processes of vineyard crops.
Field Courses: Viticulture-specific courses provide students with specialized knowledge and practical skills related to viticulture. These courses usually include:
Introduction to Viticulture: Gives information about the history, importance and basic principles of viticulture. Viticulture Biology: Provides information on the biological characteristics, development and reproduction of grape vines. Vineyard Establishment and Maintenance Techniques: It covers topics such as vineyard site selection, soil preparation, planting, pruning, fertilization and irrigation. Disease and Pest Control: Provides training on diseases and pests affecting vineyard plants and methods of control. Grape Harvest and Quality Control: Timing of grape harvest, methods and post-harvest quality control processes. Machinery and Equipment Used in Viticulture: Technical information and usage training on various machinery and equipment used in viticulture. Practical Training and Laboratory Studies: Besides the theoretical courses, the program includes various practical training and laboratory work. This gives students the opportunity to reinforce their theoretical knowledge by gaining practical skills. Students gain various experiences in real vineyard sites and laboratory environments.
Internship As part of the program, students often do internships at businesses in the industry. This gives students real work experience in the industry and increases their employment opportunities after graduation.
In summary, the curriculum of the Viticulture Associate Degree Program provides students with a comprehensive education on the basic principles of viticulture, hands-on skills and real work experiences in the industry. This is designed to enable graduates to become successful and competent professionals in the viticulture sector.