Noncredit Ranch Education
The newly created series of classes in Ranch Education are part of the noncredit Vocational Education Program at Cuesta College.
The primary goal of the Ranch Education program is to create farm and ranch employees and managers who have a basic grounding in animal handling and care, ranch design and maintenance, pasture maintenance and herding techniques. Emphasis will be placed on regenerative, holistic and sustainable practices to address practical, environmental, cultural and ecological challenges.
Students will gain practical hands-on experience in ranch design and repair, forage and pasture management, machinery maintenance and operation, irrigation and facility repair and construction.
Individual Classes
VOCE 565A INTRODUCTION TO FARM MAINTENANCE: Provides students with an introduction to different types of agricultural operations, and a working knowledge of basic farm safety, farm, ranch and landscape construction and maintenance. Covers fundamental construction and maintenance of shelters, fencing, water systems, pastures and landscaping, and general handling and care of livestock.
Registration is now open for VOCE 565A! Class begins March 31st – May 17th, 2024.
VOCE 565B INTRODUCTION TO LIVESTOCK IDENTIFICATION AND HANDLING: Provides students with an introduction to livestock species and breeds, and a working knowledge of the fundamental requirements of animal husbandry and farm safety. Covers animal handling and restraint, general care, housing, feeding, and basic health requirements.
VOCE 565C INTRODUCTION TO LAND USE PLANNING AND GRAZING: Provides students with an introduction to land use and grazing planning using holistic and sustainable planning methods. Covers interpreting and applying land use regulations, operation design, planning and mapping methods, and planning targeted grazing.
Registration is now open for VOCE 565C! Class begins January 21st - March 22nd, 2024.
VOCE 565D INTRODUCTION TO LIVESTOCK HEALTH: Provides students with an introduction to livestock health including applicable requirements of animal husbandry and farm safety. Applies principles that address animal care, housing, and feeding as they relate to animal health. Includes the evaluation of techniques for avoiding, recognizing, and treating common health problems.
Each class addresses the application of sustainable agricultural practices, and the exploration of potential career paths.
Certificate of Completion
Essential Ranch Skills, C.C
Career Opportunities Related to Ranch Education
- Ranch Maintenance
- Equine Ranch Management
- Cattle Ranch Management
- Goat/Sheep Herding
- Grazing and Pasture Management
- Irrigation Installation and Repair
- Landscaping
- Livestock Event Facility Maintenance
How to Register
Contact Admissions and Registration to receive enrollment assistance at any of our campus locations: North County Campus, SLO campus, and South County Center.