Risks to Crop Production in Agriculture from Coursera

Learners will be able to describe the crop production cycles of agriculture for annual and permanent crops, explain the financial characteristics and risks of food production, discuss the various types of land ownership and rental agreements for the use of agricultural land, and describe personal, external, and food production risks that influence decision-making in agriculture.

This course is part of the College of ACES suite of online programs, including the graduate-level course, "Risk and Decision-Making in Agriculture" that can be stacked toward a graduate certificate and graduate degree. To learn more about online programs from the College of ACES and explore ways to apply your Coursera work toward a degree program at the University of Illinois, visit ACES Online @ aces.illinois.edu/online.

What's inside

Syllabus

COURSE ORIENTATION

You will become familiar with the course, your classmates, and our learning environment. The orientation will also help you obtain the technical skills required for the course.

MODULE 1 | Crop Production Cycle

At the conclusion of this module, learners will be able to define a crop, explain the crop production cycles, and describe the characteristics and differences between annual crops and permanent crops.

MODULE 2 | Financial Characteristics and Risks in Agriculture

At the conclusion of this module, learners will be able to define the characteristics and structure of a farm, explain the financial risks and capital intensity of agriculture, and describe the timing and volatility of cash flow in production agriculture.

MODULE 3 | Land Tenure

At the conclusion of this module, learners will be able to describe the types of land ownership, explain rental agreement options for agricultural land, and examine concerns of sustainability of agricultural land.

MODULE 4 | Other Factors Influencing Risk and Decision-Making in Agriculture

At the conclusion of this module, learners will be able to describe personal, external, and farm production risks that influence decision-making practices. Specifically, learners will investigate policy, global trade, energy use, and legal issues of off-farm and on-farm risks.

COURSE CONCLUSION

You are ready to complete the final assessment for the course and earn your Coursera certificate!

Good to know

Know what's good

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Covers a broad range of topics relevant to agriculture, including crop production, financial risks, land tenure, and risk management

Taught by experts in agricultural economics from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, a renowned institution for agricultural research and education

Provides a solid foundation in the principles and practices of agriculture, making it suitable for beginners in the field

May be particularly valuable for individuals considering a career in agricultural management, finance, or related fields

Includes interactive materials, such as videos and discussion forums, to enhance the learning experience

Requires students to have a basic understanding of agricultural concepts, which may not be suitable for complete beginners

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Risks to Crop Production in Agriculture with these activities:

Read "Sustainable Agriculture: A Systems Approach" by Eric Lichtfouse

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Gain valuable insights into sustainable agricultural practices by delving into the research and perspectives presented in this comprehensive book.

View Environmental Chemistry on Amazon

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Read and summarize key chapters related to the course topics.
Identify and analyze case studies of sustainable agriculture systems.
Write a short review or critique of the book's main arguments.

Review Crop Production and Nutrient Management Concepts

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Review the fundamental concepts of crop production and nutrient management to strengthen your comprehension of the material covered in the course.

Browse courses on Crop Production

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Revisit textbooks or online resources on crop production.
Review notes and summaries from previous coursework in related areas.
Solve practice problems related to nutrient management and crop growth.

Create a Crop Budget and Financial Analysis

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Develop a comprehensive crop budget and financial analysis to solidify your understanding of financial management in agriculture.

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Estimate production costs, including seed, fertilizer, and labor.
Research and incorporate market prices for crops and inputs.
Analyze potential sources of funding and calculate return on investment.
Prepare a written report summarizing your findings.

Four other activities

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Land Tenure and Rental Agreement Exercises

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Engage in practice exercises that explore various land tenure and rental agreement options to deepen your grasp of land management.

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Analyze different types of land ownership arrangements.
Draft sample rental agreements for agricultural land.
Calculate potential returns and risks associated with different land tenure options.

Discussion Forum on Risk Management Strategies

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Engage in peer discussions to share and evaluate risk management strategies, fostering a deeper understanding of the complexities of decision-making in agriculture.

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Identify and discuss various risk factors in agricultural production.
Explore case studies and examples of successful risk management strategies.
Develop a personal risk management plan.

Tutor Students in Crop Production and Agricultural Economics

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Reinforce your understanding by assisting other students in understanding the concepts of crop production and agricultural economics, promoting a deeper comprehension of the subject matter.

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Identify opportunities to tutor or mentor others in related courses.
Prepare lesson plans and materials to support student learning.
Provide guidance and feedback to students on coursework and assignments.

Develop a Sustainable Agriculture Plan

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Conceptualize and create a comprehensive plan that addresses sustainable practices in agriculture, demonstrating your ability to apply the principles learned in the course.

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Research best practices and innovative technologies for sustainable agriculture.
Identify and analyze potential environmental and economic impacts of different practices.
Create a written plan outlining specific strategies and implementation timelines.
Present your plan to classmates or industry professionals for feedback and critique.

Career center

Learners who complete Risks to Crop Production in Agriculture will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Farm Manager

Farm Managers oversee the day-to-day operations of farms, including crop production, livestock care, and financial management. This course can be a valuable asset for aspiring Farm Managers by providing a comprehensive overview of crop production cycles, financial risks, and land ownership structures. Understanding these concepts can help Farm Managers make informed decisions, maximize efficiency, and increase profitability.

See salaries and explore the career path for Farm Manager

Land Use Planner

Land Use Planners develop and implement plans for the use of land in a sustainable manner. This course can provide a strong foundation for Land Use Planners by exploring land ownership, rental agreements, and sustainability concerns in agriculture. Module 3 dives deep into the types of land ownership, various rental options, and environmental considerations, equipping individuals to make informed decisions about land use and management.

See salaries and explore the career path for Land Use Planner

Farm Business Consultant

Farm Business Consultants provide advice and support to farmers on business management, financial planning, and risk management. This course can be an asset for Farm Business Consultants by enhancing their understanding of the financial characteristics, risks, and decision-making processes in agriculture. Specifically, Module 2 on Financial Characteristics and Risks in Agriculture can help Farm Business Consultants identify and mitigate financial risks, improve cash flow management, and support farmers in making sound business decisions.

See salaries and explore the career path for Farm Business Consultant

Agricultural Economist

Agricultural Economists apply economic principles to the agricultural industry, analyzing issues such as production, marketing, and policy. This course can serve as a valuable resource for Agricultural Economists by enhancing their understanding of crop production cycles, financial risks, and the impact of external factors on agricultural decision-making. The knowledge gained from this course can contribute to more informed economic analysis and policy recommendations.

See salaries and explore the career path for Agricultural Economist

Agriculture Extension Agent

Agriculture Extension Agents provide education and outreach programs to farmers and the public on agricultural practices, technologies, and policies. This course can be beneficial for Agriculture Extension Agents by enhancing their understanding of crop production cycles, financial risks, and land tenure issues in agriculture. Sharing this knowledge can help farmers make informed decisions, adopt best practices, and improve their agricultural operations.

See salaries and explore the career path for Agriculture Extension Agent

Agricultural Journalist

Agricultural Journalists write and report on issues related to agriculture, food production, and the environment. This course can provide a valuable foundation for Agricultural Journalists by giving them a comprehensive overview of crop production cycles, financial risks, and land ownership structures in agriculture. Understanding these concepts can help Agricultural Journalists accurately report on agricultural topics and inform the public about the challenges and opportunities in the industry.

See salaries and explore the career path for Agricultural Journalist

Sustainable Agriculture Specialist

Sustainable Agriculture Specialists develop and implement strategies to promote sustainable agricultural practices that minimize environmental impact and preserve natural resources. This course can provide a strong foundation for Sustainable Agriculture Specialists by exploring the various factors influencing risk and decision-making in agriculture. Module 4 examines external factors such as global trade, energy use, and legal issues, enabling Sustainable Agriculture Specialists to understand the broader context and develop effective sustainability strategies.

See salaries and explore the career path for Sustainable Agriculture Specialist

Agricultural Educator

Agricultural Educators teach students about agriculture, including crop production, livestock care, and environmental stewardship. This course can provide a strong foundation for Agricultural Educators by giving them a comprehensive overview of crop production cycles, financial risks, and land ownership structures. Sharing this knowledge with students can help prepare them for careers in agriculture and foster a greater understanding of the industry.

See salaries and explore the career path for Agricultural Educator

Agriculture Loan Officer

Agriculture Loan Officers help farmers obtain loans to expand their operations, acquire new land, or purchase equipment. This course can help prepare individuals for this role by providing a deep understanding of the financial risks and opportunities within agriculture. Specifically, Module 2 covers capital intensity, cash flow volatility, and financial characteristics of farms. This knowledge can help Agriculture Loan Officers make informed lending decisions and guide farmers towards success.

See salaries and explore the career path for Agriculture Loan Officer

Conservation Specialist

Conservation Specialists develop and implement plans to conserve natural resources, including soil, water, and wildlife habitats. This course can provide a foundation for Conservation Specialists by exploring the various factors influencing risk and decision-making in agriculture. Module 4 examines external factors such as global trade, energy use, and legal issues, enabling Conservation Specialists to understand the broader context and develop effective conservation strategies.

See salaries and explore the career path for Conservation Specialist

Agricultural Research Scientist

Agricultural Research Scientists conduct research to improve crop yields, develop new agricultural technologies, and address challenges in food production. This course may be useful for Agricultural Research Scientists by providing a broad understanding of crop production cycles, financial risks, and land tenure issues in agriculture. This knowledge can inform their research and contribute to the development of innovative solutions and sustainable agricultural practices.

See salaries and explore the career path for Agricultural Research Scientist

Agricultural Policy Analyst

Agricultural Policy Analysts research, analyze, and advise on policies and regulations affecting the agricultural industry. This course may be beneficial for individuals pursuing this role by providing insights into the external factors that influence risk and decision-making in agriculture. Module 4 examines policy, global trade, energy use, and legal issues, helping Agricultural Policy Analysts understand the broader context and implications of agricultural policies.

See salaries and explore the career path for Agricultural Policy Analyst

Crop Insurance Specialist

Crop Insurance Specialists help farmers manage risk by providing insurance against crop damage or loss. This course may be useful for Crop Insurance Specialists by deepening their understanding of crop production and the various risks involved. Module 1 covers the crop production cycles of annual and permanent crops, while Module 4 explores personal, external, and production risks that influence decision-making in agriculture. This knowledge can assist Crop Insurance Specialists in evaluating risk and developing appropriate insurance products.

See salaries and explore the career path for Crop Insurance Specialist

Soil Scientist

Soil Scientists study soil properties, classification, and management to improve soil health and productivity. This course may be useful for Soil Scientists by providing an understanding of crop production cycles, financial risks, and land tenure issues in agriculture. This knowledge can help them assess soil quality, develop soil management plans, and advise farmers on sustainable agricultural practices.

See salaries and explore the career path for Soil Scientist

Environmental Consultant

Environmental Consultants provide advice and support to businesses and organizations on environmental issues, including agriculture's impact on the environment. This course may be useful for Environmental Consultants by providing a deeper understanding of crop production cycles, financial risks, and land tenure issues in agriculture. This knowledge can help them assess environmental impacts, develop mitigation strategies, and advise clients on sustainable agricultural practices.

See salaries and explore the career path for Environmental Consultant

Risks to Crop Production in Agriculture

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