Crop Science Co-op Student Information
About The Program
The Bachelor of Science in Agriculture – Crop Science (CRSC) major is designed for students who want to apply the latest advancements in the biological sciences to contemporary problems in the plant production industry with an emphasis on agronomy and cropping systems. This major is appropriate for students who wish to focus on the production of field crops for food, fuel or biomaterials, and breeding improved crop varieties. With a broad scope of career options, CRSC co-op students will build transferrable skills during co-op work terms contributing to their work readiness and career prospects upon graduation.
Why Co-op?
As a co-op student, you will gain relevant work experience, build professional networks, and develop essential interpersonal skills needed to succeed in the workplace, all while getting paid and earning your university degree. Guelph’s co-op program is unique due to the exceptional level of support provided throughout the co-op experience. Students will complete a comprehensive course preparing them for the co-op employment process, and will receive guidance from a knowledgeable team of staff dedicated to their development and success.
Course Sequencing
| YEAR | FALL | WINTER | SUMMER |
|---|---|---|---|
| ONE | Academic | Academic | Off |
| TWO | Academic | Academic | Work |
| THREE | Work | Academic | Off |
| FOUR | Academic | Work | Work |
| FIVE | Academic | Academic |
Acquired Knowledge & Skills
Knowledge
In depth knowledge on the production of field crops for food, fuel or biomaterials, and breeding improved crop varieties.
Application
Management and decision-making skills for the application of scientific knowledge and industry-related data to propose solutions to production challenges and improve agronomic cropping systems.
Communication
Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
Sample Jobs
Research Assistant
The student will assist with research and demonstration projects which will focus on plant pathology, entomology and pest management in ginseng. The position will also involve field work including setting up and maintaining research plots, field scouting, pest monitoring and identification, pest management, etc. The Research Assistant will also assist with the collection and analysis of on-farm samples and data from research projects.
Crop Root Phenomics Researcher
Work on a crop root project within the Aquatic and Crop Resource Development Research Centre. The project will utilize various phenomic approaches to capture relevant root phenotypes using both soil- and hydroponic-based systems and document root traits with custom-built 2- and 3-dimensional imaging platforms. Another element of the project involves investigating the relationship of root anchorage strength to barley lodging and standability in a field experimental setting. The student will gain valuable experience in crop phenomics and the steps required to move from phenotypes to the genotypes underlying root traits important for crop productivity.
Research Technician
This position will be focused on the care and growth of canola plants in a controlled greenhouse environment with the possibility of participating in field activities. In this role you will be involved in the planting, transplanting, and cross-harvesting of the canola plants for the breeding program. You will gain valuable insights and experience with different aspects of plant breeding and the seed business.
Sample Employers*
- Agriculture & Agri-Food Canada
- Crop Defenders Ltd.
- Holmes Agro Limited
Ministry of Agriculture, Food & Agribusiness (OMAFA)
*This shows a sample of recent co-op employers and will vary depending on employer recruitment needs. During a job search, students are encouraged to be actively engaged and are supported in establishing and maintaining their own personal contacts.
Salary Information
Students receive compensation from their employer for co-op work terms. The rate of pay will vary depending on a number of factors including the industry, the student’s program of study, and work term level. For your reference, a Co-operative Education Salary Guide is available on our website, which provides hourly rates (averages and ranges) for each degree program.
