The newly updated Farming Fundamentals program is a self-paced, online educational course that provides beginning and aspiring farmers with practical, research-based information to help build a successful farm business. Designed to fit participants’ schedules, the course combines instructional videos, downloadable resources, real-world examples, and practical guidance to help producers make informed decisions as they establish and grow their operations. Participants learn from UT Extension specialists, county Extension agents, industry professionals, and experienced Tennessee producers while gaining practical tools they can apply directly to their own operations. Participants are encouraged to contact their local Extension agent for production education and local programming opportunities.
For questions specific to program registration and requirements, please reach out to: rpainter@utk.edu or ebell@utk.edu.
Program Components
Each participant will be required to complete the 9 modules to complete the course and receive the certificate of completion. In order to complete each module, a score of 80% or higher must be scored on the end of module quiz. The course will guide you through completion and provide instructions along the way.
Required Modules
All 9 modules are required to complete the program.
- Course Introduction
- Exploring Enterprises
- Building Your Farm Business
- Marketing
- Recordkeeping
- Budgeting
- Financial Statements
- Risk Management
- Application and Evaluation
Each topic is covered in a module with videos, written materials, and a quiz. The entire course takes approximately 12 hours to complete. Upon completion of the course, you will receive a certificate and instructions via email for utilizing the certificate for the Tennessee Agricultural Enhancement Program (TAEP) cost-share program., should you qualify and wish to utilize this program for educational credit. This course does not count toward pesticide licensure.
Registration
Online registration is open now. The course fee is $150. Once registered, you will automatically receive access to the course. Once registered for the course, you will have access for one year from the purchase date to complete it. After one year, access to the course will expire.
For more information about the program or questions about registration, please contact your local UT Extension office or Alison Davis at Adavi257@utk.edu.
Veterans are eligible for the AgVets Opportunities on FarmLand Program (AgVOLs) scholarship. Visit tiny.utk.edu/AgVOLs for more information. UTIA Employees contact Alison Davis, Rachel Painter, or Eryn Bell for registration information.