Michigan State University Institute of Agricultural Technology,
Lansing Community College Strike Accord for Students
Michigan State University Institute of Agricultural Technology,
Lansing Community College Strike Accord for Students
6/4/08
Contact: Eileen Gianiodis
517-432-1555, ext. 160
EAST LANSING, Mich. -- The area’s two largest educational institutions are teaming up to increase options for students.
Beginning this fall, the Institute of Agricultural Technology (IAT) at Michigan State University (MSU) and Lansing Community College (LCC) will offer a joint program in which students can pursue both a certificate and an associate’s degree in applied science.
The MSU Institute of Agricultural Technology offers certificates in several agriculture-based programs but does not offer an associate’s degree. Lansing Community College offers the associate’s degree but does not offer the specific programs available only through the IAT.
“This is an example of two outstanding institutions working together to benefit Michigan’s citizens,” said Eunice F. Foster, associate dean of the MSU College of Agriculture and Natural Resources and director of the Institute of Agricultural Technology. “Through this agreement, we are providing greater opportunity and flexibility to our citizens to increase their knowledge and skill levels and to advance their credentials in careers related to the state’s two largest industries -- tourism and agriculture.”
Roberta Peterson, vice president of academic affairs at LCC, added that working together will allow students to use faculty resources and facilities on both campuses.
“We are excited to pursue this opportunity with the Institute of Agricultural Technology,” Peterson said. “Students from both campuses will benefit greatly … and we’re using our area’s resources very wisely.”
Students enrolled in the program will work toward an associate’s degree in applied science, with specialty in one of the following areas: agricultural industries, beef cattle management, dairy production, horse management, organic farming, swine management, turfgrass management (golf emphasis) and turfgrass management (sports and commercial turf emphasis).
Students need to be accepted into both institutions and may enter the program through one of two paths: students may begin taking general education courses at LCC and apply to the IAT for admission to a specific program, or they may be admitted first to a specific certificate program in the IAT, then decide to enter the program to pursue an associate’s degree from LCC.
IAT students readily find jobs in and out of Michigan and complete internships nationally and internationally.
“I already have more employment opportunities than students,” said Joe Domecq, academic specialist with the MSU dairy management program. “I have available jobs sitting on my desk. An associate’s degree may open the door to new opportunities for dairy students.”
The IAT was formed in 1894. It offers career-ready programs in a time frame of one to two years. Its certificate programs are respected throughout the state and nation, and several have international reputations. Among its graduates is Heather Nabozny, head groundskeeper for the Detroit Tigers.
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