Seed Technology Training
Training Overview
Prepare for a career as a seed analyst with this training program in seed technology. The program, led by Colorado State University and supported by three other major universities (Iowa State University, Virginia Tech, and the University of Kentucky) and the Crop Science Society of America, offers a comprehensive training in seed analysis, a technical skill requiring patience, attention to detail, and a scientific understanding of seed biology.
With this training, you are prepared to complete the qualifying examinations required to work in private and commercial seed laboratories as a Registered Seed Technologist, certified by the Society of Commercial Seed Technologists (SCST), or to work in state and federal laboratories as Certified Seed Analyst (CSA), certified by the Association of Official Seed Analysts (AOSA). Courses in this program also qualify for the National Seed Science Program Certificate for those who want to work in the seed industry.
Admission to the University is not required to register for any course in the training program as long as you meet the course prerequisites.
Core Courses Offered by Colorado State University
- SOCR 200 - Seed Anatomy and Identification (1 cr.)
- SOCR 201 - Seed Development and Metabolism (1 cr.)
- SOCR 300 - Seed Purity Analysis (2 cr.) — Under revision, not currently available for enrollment
- SOCR 301 - Seed Germination and Viability (2 cr.)
- SOCR 410 - Seed Processes: Storage and Deterioration (1 cr.)
- SOCR 411 - Seed Processes: Legume Seed Production (1 cr.)
- SOCR 412 - Seed Processes: Separation and Conditioning (1 cr.)
Begin your training with these core courses from Colorado State University. Additional courses, study, and internships beyond those offered by Colorado State University are required for the National Seed Science Program Certificate.
What Next?
- Contact us
Mike Macklin
(970) 491-7583
michael.macklin@colostate.edu - Stay informed with email updates
Sign up for email updates, and you'll be the first to know about updates related to this certificate and other programs in the Agriculture topic area.
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We'll be in touch within 2 business days.
- or contact -
Mike Macklin
(970) 491-7583
michael.macklin@colostate.edu
Receive periodic emails about this program.
For curriculum and academic advising questions:
Jack Fenwick, Ph.D.
Soil and Crop Sciences
(970) 491-6907
j.fenwick@colostate.edu
Training at a Glance
Delivery
Online or correspondence. On-campus attendance is not required.
Tuition
$319 per credit
Time frame
Completion of the certificate varies based on the amount of credits completed each semester.
Designed for
Current and new students interested in seed technology and wanting to prepare for the qualifying certification exams.
What you will earn
Certification is overseen by the AOSA or SCST. Colorado State University does not issue certification for seed technology.

