How do I enroll?

You may enroll in this program at any time. You’ll work one-on-one with your instructor for a personalized learning experience tailored to your farm or ranch.

Enrollment in the program involves registering for a class with a one-on-one instructor at North Dakota State College of Science. Contact an instructor from your area and they will guide you through the process of filling out a few simple items.

FARGO

Kelcey Hoffmann: kelcey.hoffmann@ndscs.edu

WAHPETON

Leah Maertens: leah.maertens@ndscs.edu

What will it cost me to enroll?

The tuition is a total of $750 per year.

I don’t want my financial information made public. Should I be concerned? 

There is no need for concern in sharing information. All information and data collected is completely confidential. We will establish a relationship with your lender so information can be shared. Your analysis will be submitted for the purpose of publishing state and regional averages but will only be used as part of a group average.

Is there assistance available for paying tuition?

We have a limited number of grants/scholarships that are distributed where there is a genuine need.

Isn’t the farm management program for beginning farmers/ranchers and those with financial difficulties?

Our program has great value to all ages and situations. We have students from ages 18 to 70 and from 1st year farms to well-established operations. It is all about understanding your farm’s financial situation and performance and to help you make better decisions.

Are group classes held?

Regular group classes are not held but there may be special group presentations from time to time which are optional to attend.

What is the time commitment that is required of me?

The time you put into the program will determine how much you get out of it. At a minimum you will be expected to keep a complete set of financial and production records suitable to complete a whole farm analysis. Three to five visits a year are typical but new students may meet monthly. Long-term students may meet less often. Each student’s needs are different.

Do I need to be proficient with computers?

You do not need to be proficient with a computer to take the course. Although learning to use a computerized accounting program is the most common task for first-year students and will ultimately prove to be a time saver it is not a requirement. Our instructors can guide you through the process of learning a new computer program. We have many valuable and time-saving tools and spreadsheets that farmers come to rely on so we do encourage learning how to use them.

I already use a computerized accounting program. Will I have to switch?

You will not need to switch accounting systems. Although each instructor has their preferred accounting program it is your choice. We will make recommendations if you are choosing a program or looking to switch. We can do a better job of answering questions and solving problems if we are familiar with the program. The only requirement is that you have accurate, reliable numbers to work with at the end of the year.