The Rudder Agricultural Science Program offers a wide variety of classes to prepare our students for the working world. The following is an outline of the courses offered at Rudder High School and a brief description of them:

Principles of Agriculture, Food, and Natural Resources 
A comprehensive course for first year agriculture students that introduces them to the international scope of agriculture, food, and natural resources and its effect upon society. It includes topics related to career development, building leadership skills through communication practices, and developing technical knowledge and skills related to AFNR.

Livestock Production 
Livestock Production is a course designed to prepare students for a career in the field of animal science. Students will learn employability characteristics, technical skills dealing with livestock, animal health, and business operating plans. Within these areas, they will learn animal health, anatomy and physiology, feeding, breeding, and facility design and management. Animal species to be addressed in this course may include, but are not limited to, beef cattle, dairy cattle, swine, sheep, goats, and poultry.

Equine Science
Equine Science prepares students for a career in the field of animal sciences as it relates to horse/equine care and production. Students will learn the responsibilities of ownership, health, facilities management, and anatomy and physiology.

Small Animal 
Small Animal Management is a course designed to prepare students for a career in the field of animal science as it relates to small animal care and production. Students will learn responsibility of small animal ownership, animal welfare, care and management, and examine career opportunities. Small animal species to be addressed in this course may include, but are not limited to, small mammals, amphibians, reptiles, avian, dogs, and cats.

Advanced Animal Science 
Want to be a vet? Advanced Animal Science is a lab based technical course that allows students to explore various areas of livestock production, through hands-on approach learning. Nutrition, genetics, breeding systems, anatomy and physiology, health and selection are some of the areas that will be covered. Successful completion of this course fulfills the 4th Science graduation requirement.

Wildlife, Fisheries, and Ecology Management 
This course is designed to inform students about wildlife management and outdoor recreation. Hunting and fishing skills and safety are taught as well as water and boating safety. State certification in these areas is available to students who qualify (state-mandated fee required for certification). Wise use of our natural resources and career opportunities are also covered. The student will complete the state required Hunter Safety course. Identification of wildlife and fish, state and federal policies and wildlife careers are also covered.

Principles and Elements of Floral Design
This lab based technical course demonstrates the principles and techniques related to floral design as well as developing an understanding of the management of floral enterprises. Students will learn how to make homecoming mums, symmetrical and asymmetrical arrangements as well as learn about balance, color, and symmetry. Successful completion of this course fulfills the Fine Arts graduation requirement. Lab fees and/or supplies may be required

Horticulture Science 
Horticulture Science is a lab based technical course designed to develop knowledge and skills associated with the management and production of plants, identifying structures and physiological processes used in plant production, managing and controlling common pests and marketing plant products.

Agricultural Mechanics and Metal Technologies
To be prepared for careers in agricultural power, structural and technical systems, students need to attain technical knowledge and skills related to power, structural, and technical agricultural systems and the industry. This course is designed to develop an understanding of agricultural mechanics as it relates to safety and skills in tool operation, electrical wiring, plumbing, carpentry, fencing, concrete, and metal working techniques. 

Agricultural Facilities Design and Fabrication
This course will provide students with the knowledge and skills necessary to consider a career in constructing agricultural and building systems. The student will have the opportunity to develop skills in electric arc welding, in oxy-fuel welding, and in the construction of equipment needed in agriculture uses. Areas will include safety procedures, use and identification of metals, design of structures, repairs of equipment, and use of hand and power tools related to metal fabrication.

Veterinary Medical Applications
This course is designed for students preparing for careers in the field of animal science. Topics covered include, but are not limited to career opportunities, entry requirements, industry expectations, animal systems, and veterinary practices as they relate to both large and small animal species.