Arboriculture and Community Forest Management

Arboriculture and Community Forest Management is the sustainable care of trees and shrubs in residential and community settings. This major prepares graduates for careers in residential, commercial, municipal, and utility arboriculture, as well as the non-profit sector. Students will learn how to plant, prune, fertilize, cable, and remove trees, pest and disease management, plant health care, and quantify the benefits that trees provide, as well as the risks they present. The curriculum prepares students for arborist certification exams.

 

Landscape Contracting

Students learn the fundamentals of design and the process to execute the construction of landscapes on private, commercial, and public properties. A strong horticultural foundation is used to support the construction and design portions of the curriculum while an overlying theme of sustainability ties them together. Students learn in a rigorous lecture and laboratory environment to prepare them for this most rapidly growing area of the green industry.

 

Sustainable Food and Farming

Students learn the complexities of farming and pursue careers in farming, education, and/or advocacy. During the educational experience, they acquire a basic knowledge of both plant and soil sciences while gaining specialized training in techniques of plant and animal production and management. This major also offers a degree of flexibility in designing a personal program of study.

 

Sustainable Horticulture

Sustainable Horticulture students prepare for careers in greenhouse crop production, nursery crop production, and horticulture opportunities at parks, recreational areas, tourist attractions, and historic sites. Sustainable and environmentally sound methods of selecting, producing and utilizing landscape plants are emphasized. Students choose elective courses to enrich their studies and to design their own course of study, including vegetable and herb production, sustainable agriculture, and pest management. In this way, students learn a wide variety of skills for application in the diverse horticulture industry.

 

Turfgrass Management

Through such courses as turfgrass physiology and management, weed management, insect management, plant pathology and disease management, soil science, irrigation, and business management, students are provided with the technical training necessary for professional careers in the dynamic turf care industry. The skills acquired can be applied to the management of athletic fields, golf courses, parks, and home lawns.

Our associate degree curriculum is designed in cooperation with industry professionals to quickly deliver the minimum specialized knowledge needed to gain employment in the associated field. After two years, graduates can seek immediate employment, or start their own businesses as entrepreneurs. As such, the associate degree curriculum has limited choice and flexibility.

 

Students seeking a more flexible curriculum, with access to a wide range of elective courses, should apply directly to a Stockbridge bachelor program. Our bachelor programs are designed to allow students to discover new areas, and then tailor their course work to best reflect their individual academic interests and career objectives.

 

All Stockbridge associate degree students start together each Fall in two introductory Stockbridge courses—Introductory Botany and Soils—where they get to know each other in a small school environment. From there, class sizes get smaller as students take specialization courses within their major.

 

Every associate degree program includes an internship—a work-and-learn experience in which you can earn both money and academic credit, in the summer after your first year. With a Stockbridge Internship, you’ll graduate with field experience on your resume, and a relationship with at least one employer central to your major.

 

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• Arboriculture and Community Forest Management
• Landscape Contracting
• Sustainable Food & Farming
• Sustainable Horticulture
• Turfgrass Management

 

How To Apply

Applications to the Stockbridge School of Agriculture are processed through the Undergraduate Admissions Office for UMass Amherst. Click the links below for more information such as:

Application Deadlines (including Early Action and Regular Decision)

Advantages of Early Action vs Regular Decision Applications

How to Apply as a First Year Applicant

How to Apply as a Transfer Applicant

How to Apply as an International (non-U.S.) Applicant

Veteran Educational Benefits

 

Tuition and Costs

See Current UMass Tuition, Fees, Food and Housing Rates

 

Financial Aid and Scholarships

At UMass Amherst, applications for financial aid are made by filing the FAFSA form.

Learn about Financial Aid at UMass Amherst

Complete the Federal FAFSA Form (UMass code is 002221)

Learn about UMass Admissions Scholarships

Learn about Additional Scholarships for Stockbridge Students

 

New England Board of Higher Education Tuition Break Program

This program gives a tuition break to New England students enrolled in certain programs not offered by their home state’s public colleges or universities.  Rather than paying the

out-of-state tuition rate, students in Connecticut, Vermont, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, and Maine pay a reduced tuition rate if their home state doesn’t offer their chosen major.

 

Stockbridge AS Degree Program              Home states Qualifying for Tuition Break

Arboriculture                                                             CT, ME, NH, RI, VT

Landscape Contracting                                             CT, RI

Sustainable Food & Farming                                    ME, NH, RI, VT

Sustainable Horticulture                                           ME, RI

Turfgrass Management                                            ME, NH, RI, VT

 

Learn More About Accessing an NEBHE Tuition Break

 

Housing

All full-time students (12 or more credits) are required to live on campus for their first year.

You can acquire an exemption from the residency requirement if you are:

• A sophomore, junior, senior, or graduate student
• Married, divorced, or separated
• The parent of a dependent child
• A U.S> veteran who has submitted a DD214 form to Residential Life
• A student who lives with their parent or guardian within 40 miles of campus

Documentation must be provided to Residential Life to acquire an exemption.

Reduced housing cost for some students: Stockbridge students pursuing an associate degree, in either Arboriculture, or Landscape Contracting, will start their 5-month internship off-campus at the end of March.  Because they leave campus halfway through Spring semester, these students receive pro-rated (reduced) housing charges from UMass.  Additionally, some (but not all) internship sites offer free housing to Stockbridge interns.

Learn more about Living at UMass Amherst

 

Meal Plans

UMass Amherst has been consistently ranked #1 food on a college campus for over 7 years.  We have four all-you-can-eat dining commons on campus.  Several options for meal plans are offered.

Learn more about Meal Plans

Learn more about UMass Dining in General

Academic Advising

Stockbridge students enjoy 1-on-1 academic advising from the professor who coordinates their major.  Students are advised at least twice per year when selecting classes for their next semester.  As UMass students, they have additional access to the College of Natural Sciences Academic Advising Center.

Meet Our Stockbridge Faculty Advisors

Learn about the College of Natural Sciences Academic Advising Center

 

Career Advising and Internships

Internships are work-and-learn experiences in which you can earn both money and academic credit.  They are a robust part of any Stockbridge associate degree, allowing students to graduate with field experience on their resumes, and a relationship with at least one employer central to their major.  Many of our internships are hosted by Stockbridge alumni, and successful student interns may be offered a job at the same business or organization upon graduating.  Additionally, all Stockbridge students have free access to the College of Natural Sciences Career Center, where they can get 1-on-1 help with their professional resume, and practice interview skills.

See the Stockbridge Jobs and Internships Board Specific to Our School

Learn more about the College of Natural Sciences Career Center

 

Transferring from an Associate to a Bachelor’s Degree Program

Students admitted to the associate degree program in Sustainable Food & Farming (SFF), who maintain a minimum GPA of 2.0, will be invited in their second year to transfer to the bachelor’s degree program in Sustainable Food & Farming.  No application is needed, and all classes taken for SFF associate degree requirements will transfer to fulfill the equivalent requirements of the bachelor’s degree program.  It is possible to earn both the associate and bachelor’s degrees in SFF within four years.

 

For students in the other Stockbridge associate degree programs, a minimum of 8 credits (Soils and Intro to Botany) will transfer to either Stockbridge bachelor’s program.  More than 8 credits may transfer if there is sufficient overlap with the elective requirements of the specific bachelor’s program, (or other associate program).  Course requirements for our bachelor’s degree programs can be found in the Stockbridge BS Handbook on our website.

In all cases, students who transfer from an associate to a bachelor’s program will need to fulfill the General Education Requirements of the University as part of earning the bachelor’s degree.  Students planning to transfer to a bachelor’s program may be advised to take some General Education courses during their second year, to smooth the transition.

 

Student Success

The university offers many types of academic support for students.

Learn about the UMass Student Success Office

The UMass Amherst Writing Center works with students at any stage of the writing process, including brainstorming, outlining, writing, and revising.

Learn about the UMass Amherst Writing Center

The Learning Resource Center offers four branches of support for academics and research, including Peer Tutoring, Study Skills Tutoring, Supplemental Instruction, and the Office of Undergraduate Research and Studies (OURS).  All services are free to UMass students.

Learn more about the Learning Resource Center

In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, the university provides reasonable accommodations to students with physical, behavioral, and learning disabilities.

Learn more about the Office of Disability Services

 

Student Well-Being

The university believes that academic support depends on an overall sense of well-being.  As such, the university offers many types of support for the health and well-being of students.

The Center for Counseling and Psychological Health (CCPH) offers a community of care to UMass Amherst students to help cope with stress or anxiety, find strategies to overcome challenges, promote mental well-being, and succeed in college life and beyond.

Learn about the Center for Counseling and Psychological Health (CCPH)

University Health Services (UHS) is the on-campus health care center of UMass Amherst, serving UMass students, faculty, and staff, and their domestic partners, spouses and dependent children; open 7 days a week during the academic semester.

Learn about University Health Services (UHS)

Academic Regulations

Learn about Academic Regulations at UMass Amherst

 

Good Standing Vs. Academic Probation

Students are in good academic standing when their cumulative grade point average (GPA) is 2.00 or above. Students are placed on academic probation, or academic suspension, when their cumulative GPA at the end of any semester falls below 2.00. Two academic suspensions will result in dismissal from the school. An appeal process for reinstatement is detailed in the Academic Regulations above.

 

Grading System and Grade Point Average (GPA)

Learn about the way UMass calculates grades and GPA

 

University Graduation Requirements

Candidates for the associate of science degree must complete the following minimum requirements:

• Complete all course requirements of the major curriculum
• Achieve a 2.0 or higher cumulative GPA
• Complete a minimum of 60 academic credits
• Satisfy all financial obligations to the School and University

 

Honors

• Cum Laude Honors are awarded to students graduating with a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.2, who completed a minimum of 33 graded credits while residing on campus.
• Dean List Honors are awarded by semester to students completing 12 or more graded credits with a GPA of 3.5 or higher.
• LEAR honorary scholastic society membership is awarded to students earning a cumulative GPA of 3.75 or higher, for at least 3 semesters.

 

Transcript Requests

Both official and unofficial academic transcripts can be ordered from the Registrar’s Office.

 

Important: Not every course is taught in every semester. Indications of which semesters a course is offered are subject to change. Always check Spire online for the most accurate listing of courses in a given semester.

 

Online* indicates that a course is available online through University+. Online versions of courses may carry additional fee requirements. See Spire for details.

 

Some Stockbridge associate degree programs require courses from other UMass departments. These courses are listed after the courses hosted by the Stockbridge School.

 

This listing does not include courses available only to Bachelor’s degree students. A complete listing of all Stockbridge courses can be found on the course descriptions page.

 

 

STOCKBRIDGE SCHOOL

Botany for Gardeners
STOCKSCH 100. A holistic view of plants including ecology, plant form and function, inheritance and evolution, and the relationship between plants and human life. Taught using world food, agricultural and gardening examples. (Gen.Ed. BS)

Online* 4 credits/Fall, Spring, Summer, Winter

Insects & Related Forms
STOCKSCH 101.Introduction to insect recognition, development, damage, and control. Basics of insect identification, classification, biology, anatomy, and physiology, with emphasis on insect systems that make them vulnerable to control. Role of insects in ecosystems and direct benefits to humans (e.g., honey, silk, wax, and other products). Indirectly, insects are important as pollinators of crops, natural enemies of pests, scavengers, and food for other creatures. Insects can also be major pests because they destroy crops and vector diseases.

Online* Seven-week course; first seven weeks of the semester.
2 credits/Fall and Spring

Plant Nutrients
STOCKSCH 104. Functions of mineral nutrients in plants, effects of mineral deficiencies, and sources of these nutrients to prevent or alleviate deficiencies in crop production. Seven-week course; first seven weeks of the semester.
Prerequisites: STOCKSCH 105; Stockbridge students only
2 credits/Spring, or Online* in Winter

Soils (Gen Ed BioSci)
STOCKSCH 105. With lab. Interrelationship of soils and higher plants. Physical, chemical, and biological properties of soils. Practical approach to current problems through basic soil principles.
Prerequisite: some knowledge of chemistry
4 credits/Fall and Spring

Turfgrass Insects
STOCKSCH 107. Principles and practical methods of controlling turf insect pests.
Prerequisites: STOCKSCH 101 (may be taken concurrently); Turf AS and BS majors only
2 credits/Spring (odd years)

Introductory Botany
STOCKSCH 108. With lab. This introductory botany course covers the unique features of plants, how they function, how they are categorized, and how they fit into the ecosystem. Topics include classification of plants, analysis of cell structure and various plant tissues and organs, and study of sexual and asexual reproduction as well as structure and function of plant systems. In addition, students will develop a basic understanding of the processes of photosynthesis and cellular respiration.

Prerequisites: Stockbridge and NRC majors only
4 credits/Fall, or Online* in Summer

Insects of Ornamentals
STOCKSCH 109. With lab. The recognition, biology, and control of major insect and mite pests attacking shade trees and woody ornamentals in the northeastern U.S. Emphasis on techniques and knowledge useful to the professional in tree care.
Prerequisite: STOCKSCH 101
3 credits/Fall

Sustainable Horticulture
STOCKSCH 110. This course introduces students to the basic principles utilized in the production of commercial horticultural crops. Topics include basic horticulture, plant biology, plant physiology, and other applied plant sciences. Some demonstrations and hands-on experimental exercises are included, and some field trips are planned.

Online* 3 credits/Fall

Introductory Plant Pathology
STOCKSCH 111. With discussion. Applied introduction to plant pathology in horticultural crops. Identification, description, and management of diseases in modern horticultural production. Chemical, biological, cultural, and genetic controls, and their integration. Seven-week course; first seven weeks of the semester.
Prerequisites: STOCKSCH 108 or 100-level biology course; Stockbridge and NRC majors only
2 credits/Spring, or Online* in Summers (even years)

Turfgrass Pathology Lab
STOCKSCH 112. With lab. Diagnosis and management of turfgrass diseases. Diagnosis techniques and appropriate cultural, chemical, genetic, and biological management strategies. Seven-week course; last seven weeks of the semester.
Prerequisites: STOCKSCH 111 (concurrently); Turfgrass AS and BS majors only
2 credits/Spring

Designing a Backyard Homestead
STOCKSCH 119. Do you dream of being more self-sufficient, either on your own property or simply acquiring the skills? Have you fantasized about growing your own food, constructing a root cellar, raising animals, foraging for wild edibles, and living off-the-grid? This course explores practical home-scale food production techniques, covering kitchen essentials, season extension and food preservation techniques, carpentry skills, tool use and maintenance, as well as activities like sewing, smoking meat, fermentation and making soap and candles. Soil fertility, mini orchards, mushroom foraging, farm energy and water management, greenhouse construction and vegetable growing techniques are included. This course seeks to provide students with the knowledge necessary to live a healthy, fulfilling, and sustainable lifestyle on their own homestead.
Online* 3 credits/Fall and Winter

Organic Farming and Gardening (Gen Ed BioSci)
STOCKSCH 120. With lab. Introduction to principles of soil fertility and crop management by organic procedures which are contrasted and evaluated against conventional chemical methods of farming.
4 credits/Fall and Spring, or Online* in Summer

Introduction to Sustainable Agriculture and Food Systems
STOCKSCH 165. Exploration of ethical, practical, and scientific aspects of agricultural sustainability including economic, social, and environmental impacts of food and farming. Uses systems thinking tools to compare industrial and ecological agriculture.

Prerequisite: BS degree Sustainable Food and Farming majors only

Online* 3 credits/Fall

Pesticide Certification
STOCKSCH 170. Independent preparation for the state pesticide certification examination and licensure. The State Pesticide Exam Study Manual is used and available for purchase either online or at the UMass Extension Bookstore. Students must apply to take the exam; applications must be submitted by the deadline date (one week prior to the exam). Examinations are given at various times throughout the state.

Prerequisite: Instructor permission; Stockbridge associate degree students only
1 credit/Fall and Spring

Plants in Our World (Gen Ed SI)
STOCKSCH 172. This course will enable students to study the intricate and often intimate

relationship between plants and people, taking an interdisciplinary approach. Students will learn fundamental concepts in plant biology including fundamental properties of life, food chains and food webs, plants as primary producers and humans as consumers One of the primary learning goals will be society's historical connection to plants and how plants have made an impact on civilizations. The course will also look at current environmental problems that affect local and global food security and supply, alternative food sources and farming techniques supported by thought provoking case studies, documentaries, and discussions.
Online* 4 credits/Spring, Summer

Introduction to Permaculture
STOCKSCH 186. A foundation in permaculture history, ethics, principles, design process, and practical applications, rooted in the observation of natural systems. By observing key ecological relationships, we can mimic and apply these beneficial relationships in the design of systems that serve humans while helping to restore the natural world. This course trains students as critical thinkers, observers, and analysts of the world(s) around them, and then goes on to provide students with the tools needed to design for inspired and positive change.
3 credits/Fall and Spring, or Online* in Summer

First Year Seminar
STOCKSCH 192F. An overview course designed to provide First-Year students with information, opportunities, and skills to ease their transition into college and build a successful foundation necessary to reach their educational goals.
Prerequisite: Stockbridge AS degree freshmen only
1 credit/Fall

Independent Study
STOCKSCH 196Y. Independent work related to some area of the food crops and green industries.
Prerequisites: Instructor permission, and advisor permission
1-3 credits/Fall and Spring

Sustainable Food & Farming Internship
STOCKSCH 198F. Required of all 2-year associate degree students majoring in Sustainable Food and Farming. Three-month (June-August) internship) in the specific field of study. Reports required. Course registered as Spring but completed in Summer.
Prerequisite: Sustainable Food and Farming AS majors only
1-4 credits/Spring

Sustainable Horticulture Internship
STOCKSCH 198G. Required of all 2-year associate degree students majoring in Sustainable Horticulture. Three-month (June-August) internship in the specific field of study. Submission of reports required. Course registered as Spring but completed in Summer.

Prerequisite: Sustainable Horticulture (AS) majors only
1-4 credits/Spring

Permaculture Gardening at UMass
STOCKSCH 198P. In this hands-on practicum class, students will learn about permaculture basics while maintaining our on-campus permaculture demonstration gardens.
1 credit/Fall and Spring; Pass/Fail Grading.

Turfgrass Internship
STOCKSCH 198T. Required of all 2-year associate degree students majoring in Turfgrass Management. Three-month (June-August) internship in the specific field of study. Reports required. Course registered as Spring but completed in Summer.
Prerequisites: STOCKSCH 230 with minimum grade of "C"; AS degree Turfgrass Management majors only
1-3 credits/Spring

Plant Propagation
STOCKSCH 200. With lab. The basic principles and techniques for propagating plants by both sexual and asexual means, including seeds, cuttings, bulbs, and tissue culture. The hormonal and physiological factors affecting rooting, seed dormancy, grafting, budding and layering.

Prerequisite: STOCKSCH 108 or 100-level biology course

3 credits/Fall (odd years)

Holistic Fruit Production
STOCKSCH 209. In this course we will study the principles and practices governing the establishment and management of fruit plantings from a holistic or systems perspective. The class will cover the four main small fruit or berry crops (strawberries, raspberries/blackberries, blueberries, and grapes) and four main tree fruit crops (apples, pears, peaches, and plums). Information covered will be oriented to growing conditions found in the Northeastern United States including traditional practices and innovations, organic, IPM (integrated pest management), and conventional practices.

Online* 3 credits/Spring

Retail Floral Design
STOCKSCH 210. Introductory principles and practices for designing marketable floral arrangements, including weddings and events.

Prerequisite: Open to Stockbridge AS and BS students; instructor permission

3 credits/Fall

Introductory Turfgrass Management
STOCKSCH 230. With lab. Basic principles of selecting and managing turfgrass for home lawns, parks, golf courses, and other turf areas. Topics include: climatic adaption, grass identification, establishment practices, pest control, fertility, environmental stresses, etc.

Prerequisites: STOCKSCH 105 and 108 (can be taken concurrently with 230)
4 credits/Fall (even years)

Irrigation & Drainage
STOCKSCH 234. Class focuses on the principles and management of irrigation systems for agricultural purposes (primary emphasis on golf courses and landscapes). Topics covered include hydraulics, water use and conservation methods, precipitation rate calculations, design and installation of irrigation systems, maintenance of irrigation system components, troubleshooting, and fiscal considerations. Drainage systems and impacts to turf environments also covered.
3 credits/Spring (odd years)

Applied Calculations in Turf Management
STOCKSCH 240. Calculations involving area and volume measurements, fertilizer and pesticide requirements, cost analysis, seed calculations, irrigation calculations, and calculations relating to spreader and sprayer calibrations.
Prerequisite: STOCKSCH 230 with minimum grade of “C”; Turfgrass majors only
2 credits/Spring (odd years)

Herbaceous Plants
STOCKSCH 255. Study and identification of herbaceous plants; their uses as ornamental plants for home, park, and business.

Prerequisite: Stockbridge students only
3 credits/Spring (even years)

Sustainable Soil and Crop Management
STOCKSCH 270. With lab. Maintenance and enhancement of long-term productivity and sustainability of soil in food and feed production. Students will gain an integrated knowledge of soil and crop influences on cropping systems. The lab includes several farm visits, farmers’ and students’ presentations.
3 credits/Fall

Turfgrass Physiology & Ecology
STOCKSCH 275. Full semester course. First half of semester: An introduction to basic concepts in agricultural chemistry as related to the growth and culture of turf grasses. Second half: the overall growth and development of grasses, including such areas as soil fertility and mineral nutrition.

Prerequisite: STOCKSCH 230 with minimum grade of “C”; Stockbridge Turfgrass majors only
3 credits/Spring (odd years)

Herbs, Spices and Medicinal Plants
STOCKSCH 280. With lab. Introduction to the growth, culture, and science related to the production and use of herbs, spices, and medicinal plants. Emphasis on plants used in the

home; discussion of bioactivity of plant extracts. Practice in seeding, growing, oil extraction, and utilization of these plants.

Online* 4 credits/Fall

Topics in Herbalism I
STOCKSCH 281. Introduction to the broad field of herbalism through the eyes of a clinical and community herbalist, a survey course in multiple format (lecture, experiential, indoor, outdoor), topics including historical overview; comparison of major health models of allopathy and holism, introduction to diverse herbal-based health models (Western, Asian, Indigenous), in depth information on medicinal plants, plant ID, gathering, growing and preparation skills, diverse tools of an herbalist, food as medicine; ethics, politics, and legalities of herbalism.
Online* 2 credits/Summer and Winter

Topics in Herbalism II
STOCKSCH 282. This class introduces students to the depth and diversity of Herbalism, comparing different types of herbal practice, including phytotherapy, clinical herbalism, community herbalism, aromatherapy, flower essence/plant-spirit medicine, and homeopathy.
Online* 2 credits/Spring

Forest Gardens: Perennial Agriculture for Ecological Regeneration
STOCKSCH 289. Offers students deepened understanding of forest gardens, with a focus on northeast temperate climates. This course will use readings, field trips, hands on learning at the Agriculture Learning Center and in class exercises to explore the resilience and benefits of forest systems and how we would tweak them for the creation of forest gardens.

Prerequisite: STOCKSCH 186
3 credits/Fall (odd years)

Independent Study
STOCKSCH 296. Second-year-level educational project with a faculty member related to some area of the food crops or green industries.
Prerequisite: Instructor permission
1-6 credits/Fall and Spring

Practicum
STOCKSCH 298. Pre-professional work experience related to some area of the food crops, and green industries. Specific practica are available in areas including agriculture, animal husbandry, greenhouse management, hydroponics, or permaculture.
Prerequisite: Department permission.
1-6 credits/Fall and Spring; Pass/Fail Grading.

Principles of Weed Management
STOCKSCH 310. With lab. History of weed control; importance of weeds and their relationship to people and the environment; ecology of weeds, competition, persistence and survival mechanisms; reproduction, seed germination, and dormancy; methods of weed control -- cultural, biological, chemical, and integrated pest management strategies; classification of herbicides and their selectivity; soil factors affecting herbicide performance, persistence and degradation; application equipment and calibration of sprayers; weed management systems for various crops and non-crop areas.

Prerequisite: STOCKSCH 108 or a 100-level Biology course
3 credits/Spring (odd years)

Greenhouse Management
STOCKSCH 315. With lab. Introduction to the greenhouse environment and the technology used in production of greenhouse crops. Greenhouse experiments in crop production; exercises on greenhouse structures, heating and cooling, growing media, crop nutrition, photoperiod control and lighting, and crop scheduling; field trip to local greenhouses.

Prerequisites: STOCKSCH 108, 110, OR 165

Online* 4 credits/Spring

Organic Vegetable Production
STOCKSCH 320. Students will learn organic insect, disease, and weed control, greenhouse production and construction, irrigation practices, planting and fertility, harvesting and marketing techniques, as well as how to manage money, people and natural resources.
Prerequisite: Sustainable Food and Farming majors only; or instructor permission
3 credits/Fall, or Online* in Summer

Insect Biology
STOCKSCH 326. How insects solve their problems of maintenance, survival, reproduction, etc., and how entomologists apply this knowledge in managing them. Other topics include insect evolution, plant and insect interactions, biodiversity and conservation of insects, behavior, and insect pest management. Emphasis on various insect models (e.g., Drosophila) as they relate to major research in biology. Course does not currently include a lab or field trips.
3 credits/Fall

Social Permaculture: Building Resilient Communities and Organizations
STOCKSCH 358. Permaculture mimics ecological systems to design gardens, farms and homesteads which have the resilience and benefits of natural systems. Human designed systems however cannot function without social systems such as decision making, communications, organizational structure, and policy. This course will use readings, case studies, guest speakers and in class exercises to explore how to apply permaculture ethics and principles to a variety of social systems.

Prerequisites: STOCKSCH 186; Sustainable Food & Farming majors only

3 credits/Spring, Offered In-person or Online*

Hydroponics
STOCKSCH 365. With lab. Instruction in and practice on soilless culture of plants by hydroponics. Topics include plant nutrition, nutrient solutions, media, systems and techniques of hydroponics, and marketing.

Prerequisite: STOCKSCH 105 or 120; chemistry recommended
4 credits/Fall (even years), or Online*

Tropical Agriculture
STOCKSCH 370. Tropical regions of the world, their environment and classification; influence of climate, population, and socio-economic conditions on the diversity agriculture and people groups; major crops and cropping systems of sub-humid tropics; introduction to dry land agriculture; importance of rainfall and irrigation on productivity; green revolution; desertification; present and future research needs of region, and state of agricultural technology.
4 credits/Spring

Sustainable Site Design and Planning
STOCKSCH 386. This course is an exploration into the fundamentals of sustainable landscape design with particular attention to integrating both existing and new buildings into the landscape with a view to reducing maintenance needs. Students investigate sustainable design strategies that address the ecological, water, energy and food system links between buildings and their supporting sites, as exemplified by the LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) rating system and Sustainable Sites Initiative (SITES). Topics include design principles and process, natural factors (e.g. topography, soils, vegetation), green roofs, green walls/vertical gardens, rainwater collection systems, native planting, edible landscapes and permaculture, sustainable forestry practices, post-industrial landscapes, and the human use of outdoor spaces. Emphasis will be placed on cost saving techniques for creating self-sustaining, low maintenance sites. Many real-world examples will be discussed.
Online* 3 credits/Fall

Independent Study
STOCKSCH 396. Upper-level project for students who have completed introductory courses in biology/botany, soils and/or entomology.
Prerequisite: Department permission—See Stockbridge registrar in Paige 211.

1-6 credits/Fall and Spring

Practicum
STOCKSCH 398. Internship or other pre-professional work experience in the field of plant and soil sciences. Requires prerequisite course work in plant biology, soil science, and at least two mid-level STOCKSCH courses.
Prerequisite: Department permission—See Stockbridge registrar in Paige 211.

1-18 credits/Fall and Spring

Agricultural Practicum
STOCKSCH 398B. Internship or other pre-professional work experience in the field of plant and soil sciences. Requires prerequisite course work in plant biology, soil science, and at least two mid-level STOCKSCH courses.

Prerequisite: Department permission—See Stockbridge registrar in Paige 211.
1-18 credits/Fall and Spring

HydroFarm Practicum
STOCKSCH 398D. The UMass HydroFarm Practicum is largely organized and run by students, who select crops, set up growing apparatus in the greenhouse, maintain it and grow the crops, then market and harvest them.
1-3 credits/Fall and Spring

Greenhouse Practicum
STOCKSCH 398G. Focus on greenhouse venting and temperature control, maintaining outdoor gardens, harvesting of floricultural crops, post-harvest handling of floricultural crops, fertilization, propagation (by seed, cuttings, division), greenhouse maintenance, operation of greenhouse equipment (fertilizer injector).
Prerequisite: Instructor permission
1-18 credits/Fall and Spring

Turf Practicum
STOCKSCH 398T. Internship or other pre-professional work experience in the field of turfgrass management, including but not limited to golf course management, athletic field maintenance, and professional lawn care.
Prerequisites: STOCKSCH 230; Department permission—See Stockbridge registrar in Paige 211.
1-18 credits/Fall and Spring

 

ANIMAL SCIENCES

Note: All Animal Sciences courses require the additional permission of your major’s program coordinator at Stockbridge.

Introductory Animal Management
ANIMLSCI 103. With lab. The purpose of this course is to provide an overview of animal agriculture with a focus on management practices related to the health, husbandry, feeding, breeding, and marketing of beef and dairy cattle, small ruminants, swine, poultry, horses, and alternative agricultural species. This will be accomplished through lectures and hands-on experiences during laboratories, barn chores, and lambing watch. During some laboratories, students will interact with live animals in demonstrations and for animal handling practice.

Prerequisites: ANIMLSCI 101 with a grade of C- or better, or instructor permission
4 credits/Spring

Dairy Calf Management
ANIMLSCI 238. This is an experiential learning course that involves the daily care and management of pre-and post-weaned dairy calves on a privately owned dairy. All students are expected to attend the Thursday afternoon weekly management meeting and to complete a two-week calf feeding block. This course requires close-quarter work with dairy calves. Under the best of circumstances there is a significant risk of contracting zoonotic diseases. To mitigate this risk students will receive training in zoonotic diseases and will be expected to purchase coveralls and water-proof boots. Additional PPE will be provided. Students must commit to and understand the responsibilities of caring for the calves that this course requires.

Prerequisites: Access to transportation, University Environmental Health & Safety training within 2 weeks of class start
2 credits/Fall

Livestock Classic
ANIMLSCI 239. The grooming and showing of cattle, sheep and goats are taught through hands-on experience and presentation of the animals in a show organized by the students each spring. The show is open to the public and is held at the Hadley Farm. Previous experience preferred.

1 credit/Spring

Dorset Sheep Management II
ANIMLSCI 251. Students enrolled in this course will participate in all aspects of managing a sheep flock, including nutritional management, health management, pregnancy, neonatal care and marketing.

Prerequisite: Instructor permission; If you cannot register contact @email to be added to the class.

2 credits/Spring

Belted Galloway Management II
ANIMLSCI 252. This course provides exposure to the beef cattle production cycle in the winter-spring with hands-on experience. An emphasis is placed on understanding cattle behavior and practicing “sound stockmanship.”

Prerequisite: Instructor permission; If you cannot register contact @email to be added to the class.

2 credits/Spring

Boar Goat Management II
ANIMLSCI 253. In this course, students will participate in all aspects of managing a meat goat herd, including nutritional management, health management, pregnancy, neo-natal care and marketing.

Prerequisite: Instructor permission; If you cannot register contact please @email to be added to the class.

2 credits/Spring

Animal Care & Welfare
ANIMLSCI 260. With discussion section. This class examines the academic discipline of animal welfare, considering how science, ethics, legislation and economic factors impact the lives of animals.

4 credits/Fall

Animal Sciences Practicum
ANIMLSCI 298. Internship or other pre-professional work experience in the field of animal science under the guidance of a faculty member.

Prerequisite: Instructor permission

1-4 credits/Fall and Spring

Basic Animal Nutrition & Feeding
ANIMLSCI 332. With lab. Detailed study of macro and micro nutrients, their digestion, absorption, and metabolism by various domesticated animal species for maintenance and production. Introduction to feeding programs.

Prerequisites: ANIMLSCI 220, or instructor permission

4 credits/Spring

 

COMMUNICATION

Public Speaking
COMM 260. This course blends theory and practice in exploring public speaking. The theory of speech composition, presentation, and evaluation is discussed in relation to public discourse, civic engagement, and the ethics of persuasion. Students also practice and develop their own skills by giving several formal and impromptu speeches. Requirements include the ability to pre-record speeches.

Prerequisite: Instructor permission

3 credits/Fall and Spring

 

ENGLISH WRITING PROGRAM

Writing, Identity, and Power
ENGLWRIT 111. This college-level reading- and writing-intensive course invites students to explore writing as a social act that is influenced by larger systems of power. Assignments ask students to integrate theories of language and literacy with personal experience to reflect upon their own experiences as writers. All classes are held workshop-style in

computer classrooms to allow for writing, collaboration, and consultation among students and between students and teacher. The course prepares students for ENGLWRIT 112 by introducing practices used in process-based writing courses.

4 credits/Fall and Spring

College Writing
ENGLWRIT 112. This is a first-year college-level writing course designed to help students expand their ability to write essays for academic, civic, and personal purposes and to develop their rhetorical awareness to write effectively in new social contexts. Based on the assumption that writing is a social activity, this course requires active engagement in the writing process, including pre-writing, peer review, revision, and editing. Students write five essays. This is the only course at UMass Amherst which satisfies the General Education College Writing (CW) requirement.

Prerequisite: Placement through Writing Placement Exam, or ENGLWRIT 111

3 credits/Fall and Spring

 

LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE

 

Construction Materials
LANDARCH 294A. Introduction to materials used in landscape construction, their design potential and limitations. Design details and construction methods discussed

3 credits/Spring

Construction Materials Practicum for Landscape Contracting
LANDARCH 294B. Uses of brick, stone, concrete, wood, and other landscape media are examined. Typically taken concurrently with LANDARCH 294A above.

Prerequisite: Open to Stockbridge students only

1 credit/Spring

Studio III
LANDARCH 297C. Spaces/places in context. Introduction to design processes. The relationship of site context factors and design program to the formation of landscape spaces. A series of small problems such as: courtyard, plaza, small park, ceremonial space, each with a well-defined program. Site visits and analysis, diagramming relationships between various activities, and developing an understanding of design processes.

Prerequisite: Open to Landscape Contracting and Landscape Architecture majors only, or instructor permission

3 credit/Spring

Business Concepts of Landscape Contracting
LANDARCH 297M. The varied aspects of running a small landscape contracting business.

Prerequisite: Open to Landscape Contracting majors only, or instructor permission

3 credit/Spring

 

LANDSCAPE CONTRACTING

 

Planting Design

LANDCONT 104. In preparation for an internship in the second half of the semester, programming for such horticultural practices as pruning, planting, winter protection, and pest control in gardens and nurseries. First seven weeks of semester only.

Prerequisites: LANDCONT 112, SUSTCOMM 335

3 credits/Spring

 

Landscape Drafting

LANDCONT 105. Drafting techniques necessary in landscape work, including lettering, line work, freehand sketching, scale drawings, plans, elevations, sections, profiles, composition, and rendering. First seven weeks of semester only.

Prerequisite: Open to Landscape Contracting majors only

2 credits/Spring

 

Land Form

LANDCONT 107. With lab. Practice in use of simple surveying instruments such as tapes, compasses, and levels for measurement of land surfaces. Methods of grading and graphic representations of landform (contours and profiles) explored.

4 credits/Fall

 

Introduction to Landscape Design

LANDCONT 112. The landscape media of plants, landforms, structures, and water. Graphic techniques, including modeling, drafting, and plan and cross-section drawings initiated. Examination of built landscape designs in the field and on paper.

Prerequisite: Open to Landscape Contracting majors only, or instructor permission

4 credits/Fall

 

Landscape Contracting Internship

LANDCONT 198Y. Required of all students majoring in Landscape Contracting. Five months (April-August) internship in the field. Submission of reports and collections required.

Prerequisite: Open to Landscape Contracting majors only

4 credits/Spring

 

Small Property Design

LANDCONT 213. Using models, students employ the landscape media of land, plants, structures, and water to create landscape space. Real situations with local clients designed. Techniques of interviewing, photographing, site analysis, and design explored.

Prerequisite: LANDCONT 104

4 credits/Spring

 

 

MATHEMATICS

 

Basic Mathematics Skills for the Modern World

MATH 100. Topics in mathematics that every educated person needs to know to process, evaluate, and understand the numerical and graphical information in our society. Applications of mathematics in problem solving, finance, probability, statistics, geometry, population growth. Note: This course does not cover the algebra and pre-calculus skills needed for calculus.

3 credits/Fall and Spring, or Online*

 

Precalculus Algebra with Functions and Graphs

MATH 101. First semester of the two-semester sequence MATH 101-102. Detailed, in-depth review of manipulative algebra; introduction to functions and graphs, including linear, quadratic, and rational functions. Note: Students needing a less extensive review should register for MATH 104

Prerequisite: Placement Exam Part A score above 10, or MATH 011

3 credits/Fall and Spring

 

Analytic Geometry and Trigonometry

MATH 102. Second semester of the two-semester sequence MATH 101-102. Detailed treatment of analytic geometry, including conic sections and exponential and logarithmic functions. Note: Same trigonometry as in MATH 104

Prerequisite: MATH 101

3 credits/Fall and Spring

 

Algebra, Analytic Geometry, and Trigonometry

MATH 104. One-semester review of manipulative algebra, introduction to functions, some topics in analytic geometry, and that portion of trigonometry needed for calculus. Note: Students with a weak background should take the two-semester sequence MATH 101-102 instead.

Prerequisite: Placement Exam Part A score above 15, or MATH 011

3 credits/Fall and Spring

 

 

NATURAL RESOURCES CONSERVATION

 

Environment and Society

NRC 100. In this course, you will both individually and in teams to explore the inherently interdisciplinary environmental challenges facing society. You will engage in discussions, debates, and problem-based team projects to learn about, critically consider, reflect on,

and address both local and global environmental problems. You will investigate the impacts of human activities on forests, water, fish and wildlife populations, urban areas, and climate change.

4 credits/Fall

 

Arboricultural Field Techniques I

NRC 102. Principles of rigging, advanced rope techniques, and chainsaw applications for tree pruning and removal. Lab fee required.

Prerequisite: Open to Arboriculture majors only

2 credits/Fall

 

Seminar in Arboriculture & Community Forestry

NRC 191A. Review of various professional aspects of arboriculture and urban forestry. First seven weeks of semester only.

2 credits/Spring

 

Arboriculture Internship

NRC 198Y. Required of all students majoring in Arboriculture and Park Management. Five months (April-September 1) internship in the field. Submission of reports and collections required.

Prerequisite: Open to Arboriculture majors only, NRC 232

1-5 credits/Spring

 

Arboricultural Field Techniques II

NRC 210. Basic chain saw use and safety, including directional felling, bucking, and limbing trees; notch and back cuts; using wedges; cutting branches and trunks under tension. First seven weeks of semester only.

Prerequisite: Open to Arboriculture majors only

2 credits/Spring

 

Arboricultural Field Techniques III

NRC 213. Focus on arboricultural field techniques not taught in NRC 102 and NRC 210, such as advanced climbing, rigging and cabling. Specific topics include split-tail climbing systems, and alternative friction hitches, SRT, steel and synthetic rope cabling systems, natural union rigging, and rigging with blocks and friction devices.

Prerequisite: Open to Arboriculture majors only

2 credits/Spring

 

Forests and People

NRC 225. Forests are complex and fascinating ecosystems. They have been shaped by ecological processes over thousands of years, and also by centuries of human use, abuse, neglect, and care. They are always changing. Forests are essential to human health and well-being yet they are often taken for granted. Forests and People explores the unique values that forests have in our culture; key characteristics of forests in the Northeast and

how and why they have changed through time; historical and contemporary leaders in forest conservation; sustainable forest management principles and practices; current forest use patterns and trends and the challenges and opportunities they the present in the 21st century.

3 credits/Spring

 

Principles of Arboriculture

NRC 232. This course is designed to introduce students to arboriculture and the care of community trees. Many aspects of tree care are covered, and safety is stressed throughout the course. The course presents a balanced program of practical skills and scientific tree care.

Prerequisite: Open to Stockbridge students and NRC majors only

3 credits/Fall, or Online*

 

Sensible Pruning for Beginners and Experts

NRC 235. Planted along roads or in yards, community trees provide many benefits; for every dollar invested in their care, trees provide up to five dollars in benefits. In this class, we will discuss all aspects of pruning - how-to, timing, tools, types, objectives - and how trees respond to pruning. The course is suitable for all levels of experience and does not require any previous knowledge of tree biology.

2 credits/Spring, or Online*

 

Wildlife Conservation

NRC 261. Fundamental ecology and principles of wildlife management. Emphasis on wildlife habitat and population characteristics and responses.

Prerequisite: One semester of general biology, or instructor permission

3 credits/Spring

 

Commercial Arboriculture

NRC 305. In this class, students will learn the fundamentals of owning/operating a tree care business. We will cover basic cost accounting and estimating for pruning, fertilization, and support system installation. We will also review the importance of a company safety policy.

Prerequisites: NRC 232, Open to Stockbridge Arboriculture seniors only

3 credits/Fall

 

Community Forestry

NRC 310. Management principles of municipal and utility tree care, land use problems, tree laws and ordinances. Open to Stockbridge Arboriculture seniors only

3 credits/Spring, or Online*

 

Principles of Arboriculture II

NRC 333. This course is designed to introduce students to additional principles of arboriculture and the care of community trees, beyond that taught in NRC 232. Many

aspects of tree care are covered, and safety is stressed throughout the course. The course presents a balanced program of practical skills and scientific tree care. First seven weeks of semester only.

2 credits/Spring

 

 

RESOURCE ECONOMICS

 

Introduction to Resource Economics

RES-ECON 102. Principles of microeconomic theory for majors and non-majors. Concepts of supply, demand, markets, economic welfare and policies. Applications to resource management in business and government context emphasized.

4 credits/Fall and Spring

 

Environmental Economics

RES-ECON 262. Economic analysis of environmental problems focusing on air, water, and land pollution. Emphasis is on analyzing the individual incentives that lead to environmental degradation, the valuation of environmental quality, and the design and evaluation of regulations that seek to improve environmental quality. Includes the economic analysis of global climate change.

4 credits/Spring

 

Natural Resource Economics

RES-ECON 263. Economic analysis of natural resource use and conservation. Includes analyses of the use of fuel, forest, marine and biodiversity resources. Focuses on evaluating natural resource use in terms of efficiency and sustainability, and in terms of designing regulations for correcting inefficient and unsustainable resource markets.

4 credits/Fall

 

 

SUSTAINABLE COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT

 

Plants in the Landscape

SUSTCOMM 335. With lab. Introduction to 200 basic ornamental plants used in landscape architectural, horticultural, arboricultural, and other design uses; their identification, uses, and cultural requirements. Two weekly field trips around campus. Workbook with sketches required.

4 credits/Fall

 

 

Fall 2024

September 3 Tuesday First day of classes

September 9 Monday Last day to ADD or DROP any class with no record

October 14 Monday Holiday (Indigenous Peoples Day)

October 15 Tuesday MONDAY CLASS SCHEDULE will be followed

October 29 Tuesday Last day to DROP with ‘W’ and select ‘P/F’

November 5 Tuesday Holiday (Election Day)

November 11 Monday Holiday (Veterans’ Day)

November 12 Tuesday Registration begins for Spring 2025

November 26 Tuesday Thanksgiving recess begins after last class

December 2 Monday Classes resume

December 10 Tuesday Last day of classes

December 11 Wednesday Reading Day

December 12 Thursday Final examinations begin

December 18 Wednesday Last day of final examinations; semester ends

December 24 Tuesday Final grades due by Midnight

 

Spring 2025

January 30 Thursday First day of classes

February 5 Wednesday Last day to ADD or DROP any class with no record

February 17 Monday Holiday (Presidents’ Day)

February 20 Thursday MONDAY CLASS SCHEDULE will be followed

March 14 Friday Final grades close for freshmen leaving for internship; grades submitted in May

March 16 Sunday Spring recess begins

March 24 Monday Classes resume

April 3 Thursday Last day to DROP with ‘W’ and select ‘P/F’

April 7 Monday Registration begins for Fall 2025

April 12 Friday MONDAY CLASS SCHEDULE will be followed

April 21 Monday Holiday (Patriots' Day)

May 9 Friday Last day of classes

May 12 Monday Final examinations begin

May 16 Friday Last day of final examinations; semester ends

May 16-18 Friday-Sun Commencement Weekend

May 22 Thursday Final grades due by Midnight; grades also submitted for internship students