STEP- Certificate Program

Certificate in Seed Science and Technology

Upon completing these courses you will be better qualified to obtain a job in a seed lab and start your pathway to becoming a certified seed analyst or a registered seed technologist.  The course work and training prepares you to successfully complete qualifying examinations required to work in private and commercial industries. You will be prepared to take the AOSA or SCST exams for their Certified Seed Analyst or Registered Seed Technologist credential after the testing requirement of being employed by a lab for 2 years. Lab employment and a recommendation from a lab employee are still required to take the exams, this certificate only meets the requirements for the education portion of the exam.

All courses are offered through CSU online for distance learning. Current CSU campus students can register through RamWeb for the campus section of the course, but note that all curriculum is offered online.

Note on Individual Courses – Are you interested in seed technology, but only need a course or two? All our courses can be taken by themselves–no prerequisites required. These courses are also good for professionals already involved in seed technology who simply want to brush up on their knowledge.

Required coursework for the certificate

SOCR 200 – Seed Anatomy and Identification – 1 credit

SOCR 201 – Seed Development and Metabolism – 1 credit

SOCR 300 – Seed Purity Analysis – 2 credits

SOCR 301 – Seed Germination and Viability – 2 credits

SOCR 311* – Seed Quality – Seed Production and Genetics – 1 credit

SOCR 410 – Seed Processes:  Storage and Deterioration – 1 credit

SOCR 412* – Seed Processes:  Separation and Conditioning – 1 credit (not currently available)

SOCR 413 – Seed Vigor Concepts and Testing – 2 credits

Additional coursework may be required due to prerequisites

* Optional but beneficial courses