Browse Programs

Learn the basics from start to finish of how to successfully grow food. Learn how to garden productively and sustainably.

Built by UMaine Cooperative Extension, this short course blends approachable science with field-tested tips you can use right away in gardens, greenhouses, or production settings. If you want a clear, practical foundation in plant diagnostics, so you can tell normal variation from true problems and determine the issue the plant has, you’re in the right place. In about 6-8 hours, you’ll learn how to read plant symptoms, tell abiotic from biotic issues, and work through a simple five-step diagnostic process that leads to confident next steps. You will also know when to sample or lab-test and where to find trusted, science-based resources. In Maine, you'll also earn 6 pesticide applicator recertification credits!

Aquaculture, the farming of fish, shellfish, and aquatic plants, is one of the fastest-growing food production sectors in the world and an important part of Maine’s coastal economy. This introductory course explores the fundamentals of aquaculture, including how aquatic species are cultivated, why aquaculture is important for global food systems, and the different technologies and practices used in modern production. Through short lessons, real-world examples, and a virtual field trip, you’ll gain a foundational understanding of aquaculture and the opportunities it creates for sustainable seafood production, innovation, and careers. Whether you are curious about seafood production, considering a career in aquaculture, or interested in how farmed seafood reaches your plate, this course provides an accessible introduction to the field. This program, upon successful completion, qualifies the learner for level 1 of the Recirculating Aquaculture Systems Micro-Credential.

In this self-paced course, you will lean a variety of tools and techniques to prevent the spread of disease across farms and facilities. A short quiz is needed to earn the certificate of completion.

This self-paced course teaches the chemistry of biogas, how it is produced, and the advantages of biogas over fossil fuel. You will learn about the different types of production systems available and the equipment needed to produce and utilize biogas through short readings, images, and educational videos. Check your learning questions after each section will help you apply what you learn. This course includes simple math and chemical equations. There is a final quiz to earn a certificate of completion.

This course will help prepare you to build a successful tree fruit orchard at a commercial scale. In this self-paced course, you'll get a solid, research-based foundation on which to build your knowledge and plan your orchard. There is a short final quiz to earn a certificate of completion.

Online course on raising beef cattle covering breeds, facilities, nutrition, reproduction, marketing and finances. There are quizzes in each section for the certificate of completion.

In Growing Raspberries and Blackberries you will learn what it takes to grow brambles like raspberries and blackberries successfully. You'll learn about management strategies throughout the season to minimize pests and maximize harvest. This self-paced course features a series of educational videos, readings, case studies, and interactive practice questions. There is a short final quiz to earn a certificate of completion.

Sharpen your beef production skills with WVU’s Cattlemen’s College - featuring expert-led sessions on herd health, nutrition, and marketing for producers of all experience levels.

Join hundreds of small farm professionals at WVU’s annual conference to learn practical skills, explore new agricultural trends, and connect with experts who can help you grow your farm into a profitable business.

Learn how to improve pasture health and livestock performance through managed grazing systems - ideal for farmers looking to boost sustainability and productivity.

Gain in-depth knowledge of beef cattle production, nutrition, and herd health - perfect for new or experienced beef producers looking to improve profitability.

This program provides practical knowledge in sheep and goat production - perfect for new and experienced farmers looking to diversify their operations.

This certification program offers training in dairy herd management, milk quality, and farm economics - ideal for dairy professionals seeking to enhance their operations.

Designed for nursery and greenhouse professionals, this program covers plant production, pest management, and business planning.

The Home Horticulture Certificate is a comprehensive environmental horticulture education program that takes participants on a 14-week educational journey featuring virtual lectures and Q&As on Zoom taught by Extension faculty and staff experts. Weekly “Try This” assignments and a hands-on, practical course project focused on landscape observation and analysis draw the concepts learned in class together, culminating with a project showcase and discussion session the final week of the course. Course content is applicable to the Northeast region, with particular emphasis on plants suitable to Ecoregions 59, 84 and adjacent environs. New and existing green-related industry professionals, homeowners and land stewards are encouraged to participate. Successful completion of all course requirements yields a Certificate of Completion. For more information on the specific topics covered and the in-person, optional field practicum sessions offered, see the 2026 course schedule.

The Invasive Plant Management Training Program certifies land care professionals to provide sustainable invasive plant management services to clients, and to facilitate rehabilitation of degraded coastal and riparian habitats that are regulated by RI law. Nonprofessionals and those working outside the coastal zone who are interested in broadening their understanding of the impact invasive plants have on the environment are also welcome to attend training. Topics covered include the science of vegetative buffers, common invasive plants in the Northeast, overviews of mechanical, chemical and biological control methods, restorative planting and more. See the webpage for more information about the program, for a list of current Certified Invasive Managers, and to sign up to be notified of future trainings.

Explore sustainable aquaculture techniques and business models - ideal for aspiring fish farmers and coastal entrepreneurs.

Learn the ins and outs of ocean farming in this 12-week aquaculture course. Offered online and in person, it covers shellfish, seaweed, and business skills. Great for beginners and professionals.

Earn your BQA certification online or in-person to demonstrate your commitment to responsible beef production and gain access to premium markets.

Learn the essentials of pasture-based dairy farming - from grazing systems to herd health - in this short course designed for beginning and transitioning dairy producers.

Become a certified trainer for swine sample collection with this Missouri Extension course - ideal for veterinarians, educators, and ag professionals supporting disease surveillance.

Discover how cover crops can boost soil health, reduce erosion, and improve your farm’s resilience. This beginner-friendly online course includes 11 modules and offers 5.5 Certified Crop Advisor CEUs. The course is self-paced.

Learn how to handle life-threatening emergencies in pets with this 16-week online course. You’ll gain skills in triage, diagnostics, and treatment for trauma, shock, and critical illness. Ideal for veterinary professionals, this course offers 4.5 CEUs.

The UMaine Pasture Management Course is a free, self-paced online training that teaches livestock producers how to improve grazing systems, forage quality, and pasture productivity. It’s ideal for farmers looking to reduce feed costs and boost sustainability through better land management.

Show off your plant expertise with Georgia’s Certified Plant Professional credential. Pass two exams - one written and one plant ID - to earn your certification. Includes study materials and online resources.

Show your landscaping expertise with Georgia’s GCLP certification. Covers essential skills like planting, pruning, irrigation, and safety. Recognized by state and industry groups.

Thinking about oyster farming? This free online course introduces you to off-bottom oyster culture in the Gulf of Mexico. Learn from experts in four virtual sessions. Perfect for beginners.

Want to be an eco-conscious fishing guide? This online course teaches sustainable fishing and boating practices. Complete it at your own pace and earn a 3-year certification. Includes gear and promotional support.

This program supports small-scale farmers with technical assistance, marketing strategies, and sustainable practices - ideal for beginning and small-scale producers.

This 3-day lab explores shellfish, seaweed, and salmon farming. Includes lectures, hands-on labs, and field trips to local aquaculture sites.

Celebrate Tennessee agriculture at TSU’s Small Farm Expo. Connect with farmers, researchers, and ag professionals through demos, exhibits, and networking.

Get certified in Beef Quality Assurance through flexible online or in-person training options that help producers improve animal care, meet buyer expectations, and strengthen market access.

These online courses help landscapers and horticulture professionals earn PCH credits while mastering plant ID, pruning, pest control, and more - ideal for both new hires and seasoned crew leaders.

Ohio cattle producers can get BQA certified through this program. Learn how to improve animal care, beef quality, and consumer confidence. Offered in-person and online.

Boost consumer confidence and marketability with NDSU’s Beef Quality Assurance certification - training producers in safe, ethical, and science-based beef production practices.

Explore plant and animal agriculture through field demos and expert-led discussions. This program helps small-scale farmers grow their skills and connect with resources.

Learn safe animal handling practices in English, Spanish, or K’iche. These workshops help dairy workers reduce injuries and improve animal welfare.

Earn certification in pollinator habitat planning for solar installations and help advance sustainable energy and biodiversity through this specialized MSU course for land managers and solar developers.

This program offers training in sheep and goat production, marketing, and pasture management - perfect for those entering or expanding in small livestock farming.

Support for Kentucky beekeepers includes free mobile equipment sterilization and the annual Bluegrass Bee School. Learn how to keep bees healthy and productive.

Learn how to tackle herbicide resistance with this self-paced online course. Includes videos, activities, and tools to help farmers and agribusiness pros build long-term weed control strategies.

This online series offers monthly expert-led sessions on swine breeding and herd management, perfect for professionals working in pig production who want to improve efficiency and stay current with industry challenges.

Get certified in pork quality assurance with online or in-person training. Courses qualify for veterinary CEUs and help improve animal care and food safety.

Advance your career in dairy with a paid, three-year apprenticeship that blends technical instruction and on-the-job training.

Advance your career with CSU’s Upskilling program. Choose from micro-credentials, certificates, or degree completion tracks focused on food systems, soil health, and water conservation. Great for professionals and career changers.

This program supports livestock producers with training in animal health, nutrition, and pasture management tailored to island conditions.

Discover eco-friendly ways to manage pests in your garden or farm with Alabama Extension’s Integrated Pest Management resources. Learn how to tackle bugs, weeds, and diseases using sustainable methods. Great for small-scale growers and backyard gardeners.