Welcome

Serving Industry Through Education in Seed Science and Technology

Do you realize how much we depend on seeds?

Without seeds, our food supply, clothing, buildings, beautiful scenery, soil stability, wildlife habitat, energy and other products vital to life would no longer be available.
Because of their importance, a large seed industry has emerged. Would you like to be part of this dynamic industry? Then check out the opportunities available through STEP – the Seed Technology Educational Program administered through Colorado Seed Programs at Colorado State University.
Seeds need to be produced, conditioned, evaluated for quality, genetically identified, sold and distributed. Because of their importance, we need people! An array of courses are available to educate you on different aspects of the seed industry. Instructors with expertise in a variety of topics and from several respected Universities across the country bring you their knowledge through a distance education format.

Seed Technology Courses

Individual Courses – Are you interested in seed technology, but only need a course or two? All our courses can be taken by themselves–no prerequisites required. These courses are also good for professionals already involved in seed technology who simply want to brush up on their knowledge. However, if you are interested in a career in seed technology we recommend either program below.

STEP Certificate Program in Seed Technology – This program is designed to prepare the student to become a seed analyst in a commercial, state, or federal seed laboratory. It consists of distance education learning and actual hands-on training. A scholarship is available for one student per year in this program.

National Seed Science and Technology Distance Education Program – The purpose of this coordinated National Certificate Program is to educate seed science and technology professionals to meet the growing needs of the seed industry in a wide range of positions.

Seed Images database – STEP has built one of the most comprehensive online seed image databases in the world. This site is available (for a fee) to anyone looking for seed photographs and descriptions that can aid you in identifying seeds.

See our Career Opportunities link for descriptions of the various types of careers this education can lead you to, and updated job postings.