Ranch Operations Program Certificate is a Program Certificate program offered by Bismarck State College in Bismarck, ND.
Program Overview
Degrees Offered: Program Certificate Limited Enrollment: Yes Program Begins: Fall Delivery Method: On Campus Phone: 701-224-2429 Email: bsc.cet@bismarckstate.edu The Ranch Operations certificate program is a concentrated curriculum designed to train students for an entry level position in the Production Livestock Industry. The program emphasizes hands-on learning through labs and practicum experience. Students will have the knowledge and skills to assess health and treatment regimens, interpret nutritional needs and feeding systems, execute pasture and grazing management, and discuss issues facing the livestock industry. Technology is infused in the curriculum and includes computer-assisted ration formulation, performance record keeping software, mapping of pastures, infrastructure and cowherd movement, and exploration of innovative technologies. Admission occurs in the Fall. Students are encouraged to apply early as openings are limited. Students interested in agriculture should be resourceful, flexible, and creative problem solvers. Some ranch experience is helpful, but not required. Interested students are encouraged to apply early as openings are limited. Students who complete the curriculum requirements earn a Program Certificate in Ranch Operations. Students may continue with their education toward a Farm and Ranch Management Associate in Applied Science (AAS) degree. Credits from the Ranch Operations certificate may stack into the following Associate of Applied Science degrees: Advances in technology, grazing practices, and animal health in the beef cattle industry are creating a significant demand for trained employees. The demand exists in all segments of the industry from seedstock and cow-calf producers, to feedlot operations. Certificate holders will possess the basic skills to work in these segments while continuing their training on the job. Agriculture Club The BSC Ag Club is dedicated to helping BSC students through career development, service opportunities, professional networking and education enhancement. BSC Ag Club also promotes interest in agriculture, educates the general public about the importance of agriculture, inspires interpersonal interactions and enhances students' understanding of local and global agricultural industries. Scholarships Scholarship are readily available to students enrolled in agriculture degree programs. Upon graduation, Ranch Operations students will be able to:
Application Process
- 1Submit ApplicationComplete the online application form with your personal information and educational background.
- 2Submit TranscriptsProvide official high school transcripts or GED certificate. Some programs may require additional documentation.
- 3Financial AidComplete the FAFSA to determine eligibility for federal financial aid. Meet with a financial aid advisor to review your options.Complete FAFSA Application
- 4EnrollmentOnce accepted, complete enrollment paperwork, register for classes, and attend orientation.
School Information
Campus Location
Why Accreditation Is Important
When you attend an accredited institution, you are attending a school that has undergone a rigorous process that evaluates educational quality. It's not easy to become or remain an accredited institution. The rules and regulations are strict, precise and designed to protect students. Here are some of the benefits:
- A reliable indicator of quality
- Approved program of study
- Qualified instructors
- Recognition by employers nationwide
Accreditations
Tuition and Fees
This award is 28 credits.
Bismarck State charges tuition by the SUBJECT of each course rather than by program, so a single price for the award would be misleading. The college's published 2026-2027 resident rates per credit are:
- General 100/200-level subjects (ENGL, MATH, BADM, CIS and similar) — $195.09
- Technical 100/200-level subjects (WELD, AUTO, HVAC, ELEC, CARP and similar) — $239.43
- Nursing (NURS) — $279.84
- Any 300/400-level course in a Bachelor of Applied Science — $251.68
Uncapped mandatory fees add $57.12 per credit plus a $7.15 technology fee. Connect ND and NDSA fees are capped at 12 credits a term. Because most awards mix general and technical subjects, the total depends on the specific courses taken.
School Information
Campus Location
Why Accreditation Is Important
When you attend an accredited institution, you are attending a school that has undergone a rigorous process that evaluates educational quality. It's not easy to become or remain an accredited institution. The rules and regulations are strict, precise and designed to protect students. Here are some of the benefits:
- A reliable indicator of quality
- Approved program of study
- Qualified instructors
- Recognition by employers nationwide

