Certificate in Seed Science and Technology

Take seed technology courses online

Prepare for a career as a seed analyst with online courses in seed technology. These courses, 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, offer a comprehensive overview of seed analysis, a technical skill requiring patience, attention to detail, and a scientific understanding of seed biology.

Prepare to become a seed technologist or analyst

After completing all courses in this program, you will be 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. (Note: additional courses and internships beyond those offered by CSU may also be required).

Earn your undergraduate certificate

Admission to the University is not required to register for any of these courses, as long as you meet course prerequisites. However, to earn the undergraduate certificate, you must 1) be an admitted student and 2) complete all required courses in the program.

Required Courses (11 credits):

• SOCR 200 – Seed Anatomy and Identification (1 cr.)
• SOCR 201 – Seed Development and Metabolism (1 cr.)
• SOCR 300 – Seed Purity Analysis (2 cr.)
• SOCR 301 – Seed Germination and Viability (2 cr.)
• SOCR 311 – Seed Quality: Seed Production and Genetics (1 cr.)
• SOCR 410 – Seed Processes: Storage and Deterioration (1 cr.)
• SOCR 412 – Seed Processes: Separation and Conditioning (1 cr.)
• SOCR 413 – Seed Vigor: Concepts and Testing (2 cr.)

Note: Additional study and testing is required to become a Certified Seed Analyst or Registered Seed Technologist.