Got a question?

Questions about College of Agriculture & Life Sciences Distance Education courses and programs can be directed to (800)747-4478 or by E-mail. For a list of all courses and programs available from Iowa State University, call (800)262-0015 or visit www.lifelearner.iastate.edu.

How Does Your Garden Grow?

This online Horticulture series is suited for those who want knowledge in basic Horticulture, Herbaceous Perennials, and Vegetable Crops. These non-credit classes provide you with the basics in plant selection, maintenance, propagation, and general culture techniques. Classes start May 19th, May 26th, and June 30th. Information or to register.

Quality Programs, Innovative Delivery!

The College of Agriculture and Life Sciences is committed to providing quality instruction and course content to students regardless of geographical location by combining the best traditional methods with the latest teaching and technological innovations.

The educational needs of students and employers locally, regionally, and globally are changing rapidly. These employers require an increasingly skilled and knowledgeable workforce.

Fundamental to the land grant mission is access by citizens to degree programs that contribute to these evolving needs. The College Distance Education Program is striving to meet these needs.

New Courses Under Development

Several new courses are currently under development. The new courses cover a broad selection from several departments in the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences and include both undergraduate and graduate.

Undergraduate Occupational Safety Certificate Program

Work has started in the development of courses for this new certificate program. The objective of this certificate program is to prepare technically-oriented managers to meet their professional safety responsibilities. The first course will be taught Fall 08.

Community Development On-line Master's Program Receives Two Awards!

One of the fastest growing Master's program in the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences is receiving recognition. During April, the Community Development Program received two awards.

Recently at the IACON Conference held in Cedar Rapids, Iowa on April 18, the program received the Points of Presence Award. This award is given to individuals or organizations for specific outstanding distance programs and initiatives serving learners.

The Community Development program also won the 2008 Innovative Program Award form the Community Development Society, a national organization. The award will be presented in June at the annual conference in Saskatoon. This award is presented to a Community Development Society member or a group in recognition of a superior innovative program using the principles of good practice as adopted by the Society.

News & Updates

What are the benefits of study by distance learning?

Flexibility is the main advantage of distance learning. You have the flexibility to study in your own time and from home. You can fit studying around work or family commitments.

Distance learning can be career changing. It gives a clear signal to employers that you are committed to developing your skills and knowledge. It allows you to develop your career without having to leave employment.

Distance learning is a rewarding and enriching experience that brings about significant personal development.

Student Comments

Taking courses through the College of Agriculture is all about having flexibility.

As a working professional who frequently travels, the video CD's will allow me to stay current with the coursework via laptop while away from home.

This is the third course I have taken and have not had any problems. Great job!

The new WebCT / Breeze format is great. It gives me control of the course.

The technology worked quite well. The reliability of delivery was excellent. The folks in charge of distribution did an excellent job.

I knew what was expected of me at all times and the requirements were easy to comply with due to the ease and efficiency of this learning program.

Course Evaluations

Fall 2006
Spring 2007
Summer 2007
Fall 2007