Classes
August 1, 2024 2025-11-14 5:55Classes
Classes: Faculty of Agronomy
Agricultural economics (A, PP)
Degree programs „Agronomy”and “Plant protection”, Degree „Bachelor“, IV year, Type of the course: required. Credits: 7,0 ECTS
Course objectives:
The aim of the course is to provide students with the logic of economical thinking and to acquire knowledge on the successful management of an agricultural farm and company in the field of agriculture and plant protection. Achieving this goal implies not only the acquisition of new skills and knowledge in economics but also their integration with the ones already acquired from the technological disciplines from the academic curriculum.
Course description:
The course addresses issues related to the peculiarities of the economy and the organization of the agricultural sector: size and production structure of the agricultural sector, organization of the territory and territorial location of agricultural production. Overview of the existing institutional framework of Bulgarian agriculture. Overview of questions relating to supply and demand of agricultural products; the main factors of production – land, labor, and capital; production function; production costs and profit maximization principles; prices and price-making in agriculture; the nature and methods for calculating basic economical and financial indicators. Economical approaches and methods for evaluating agricultural land and permanent crops are also being looked at.
Lecturers:
Agricultural policy
Degree programs “Fruit growing”, “Vegetable growing”, „Regenerative agriculture” and “Field crops production” Degree „Master“ (preparatory training), year: full-time – I, part-time – I. Type of the course: required. Credits: 4 ECTS
Course objectives:
The course aims to provide students with foundational knowledge on the nature, functions and development trends of the European Union; The Common Agricultural Policy and the mechanisms for its implementation; the reasons behind policy reforms and expected results in the future. The knowledge obtained from this course builds upon the economic knowledge of students received during their Bachelor qualification degree.
Course description:
The course consists of two sections: Functioning of the European Union and the Common Agricultural Policy. The first section addresses issues related to the historical development of European Union integration; essential features of the European Union legal system; bodies and institutions of the European Union; procedural decision making in the European Union and European Union funding. The second section deals with issues related to the Common Agricultural Policy of the European Union, namely: the historical development, funding and instruments of the Common Agricultural Policy; first and second pillar of the Common Agricultural Policy; World Trade Organisation’s agreement on agriculture; the Doha negotiations on agriculture and a European green deal.
Lecturers:
Agrochemistry (A, PP)
The course is studied in the degree programs “Agronomy” and “Plant Protection”, educational qualification degree “Bachelor”, II course as compulsory with 7.0 ECTS credits.
Course objectives:
The aim of the course is to gain knowledge on soil fertility, mineral nutrition of plants and the use of mineral and organic fertilizers to improve the diet of crops.
Course description:
The course in “Agrochemistry” provides for the study of modern theoretical formulations for plant nutrition and methods for characterizing the ability of different soils to supply crops with nutrients. The nutrition and fertilization of the plants with the separate elements – nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, microelements are considered. The modern methods for determining the needs for fertilization, the types and forms of fertilizers, the specifics of fertilization of different groups of crops are studied. Special attention is paid to the impact of fertilization on attacks by diseases and pests and on the environmental problems of fertilization.
The practical exercises provide for laboratory determination of the main agrochemical indicators of soils; agrochemical and visual diagnostics of fertilization needs; determination of the norms for fertilization with the individual nutrients for specific soils and crops; drawing up a balance of nutrients at farm level; the rules for good agricultural practice; utilization of organic fertilizers and composts; preparation of fertilization systems, etc.
Lecturers:
Agrotechnology and fertilization
The course is studied in the degree programs “Field crops production”, “Fruit growing” and “Vegetable growing”, educational qualification degree “Master”, I course as required with 6.0 ECTS credits.
Course objectives:
To acquaint students with the importance of applying modern agricultural techniques and fertilizing in the conditions of intensive agriculture. The studied material will be presented in the direction of integrated application of agricultural techniques and fertilization in different crops, in order to optimize costs and increase yields.
To gain in-depth knowledge of technologies related to soil cultivation and plant nutrition.
Course description:
Agrotechnics provides high, constant and quality yields with the most rational organization of labor and other means of production, under specific natural and economic conditions.
Areas related to tillage, seed preparation, sowing and planting methods, weed control, crop rotation optimization and fertilization will be affected. The influence of allelopathy and competition in crops and weeds will be studied.
The need to preserve soil fertility originated with agriculture in the ancient world, so we will consider the links between farming techniques and fertilization with erosion and reduction of organic matter in the soil.
In the program the study material is grouped by topics that are logically related and depend on each other.
Lecturers:
Ampelography and Plant breeding of the Vine (HV, BSPCP)
The course is studied in the degree programs “Field crops production”, “Fruit growing” and “Vegetable growing”, educational qualification degree “Master”, I course as required with 6.0 ECTS credits.
Course objectives:
To acquaint students with the importance of applying modern agricultural techniques and fertilizing in the conditions of intensive agriculture. The studied material will be presented in the direction of integrated application of agricultural techniques and fertilization in different crops, in order to optimize costs and increase yields.
To gain in-depth knowledge of technologies related to soil cultivation and plant nutrition.
Course description:
Agrotechnics provides high, constant and quality yields with the most rational organization of labor and other means of production, under specific natural and economic conditions.
Areas related to tillage, seed preparation, sowing and planting methods, weed control, crop rotation optimization and fertilization will be affected. The influence of allelopathy and competition in crops and weeds will be studied.
The need to preserve soil fertility originated with agriculture in the ancient world, so we will consider the links between farming techniques and fertilization with erosion and reduction of organic matter in the soil.
In the program the study material is grouped by topics that are logically related and depend on each other.
Lecturers:
Ampelography and pomology
Degree program “Fruit growing”, Degree “Master”, year: full-time – I, part-time – I. Type of the course: required in 2 modules. Credits: 6 ECTS
Course objectives:
The aim of the course “Ampelography and pomology” is students to learn the ampelographic and pomological characteristics of the different groups of vine and fruit crops, as well as its new higher yielding and higher quality varieties, the role of the variety in the viticultural and fruit growing science and practice, compliant with the new market requirements.
The objectives of the training course are to broaden students’ knowledge of vinegrowing, fruit growing and small fruit crops. This is done by studying the morphological and biological description of the varieties, their production value, as well as the possibilities for their zoning and recommending to the practitioners vine growers and fruit growers for amateur and industrial cultivation.
Course description:
In the course of training in the subject “Ampelography and pomology” students will study the methods of ampelographic research, the classification of the family Vitaceae and the ampelographic characteristics of the most important species and varieties of vines. Simultaneously with the acquisition of skills for determining the varieties, the specific methods for recognizing the varieties by their unique qualities will be learned.
The main place in the curriculum is given to the study of the botanical description, agrobiological and technological characteristics of table grapes and wine varieties and vine rootstocks, as well as its main fruit species and varieties of pome, stone, nut and berry crops.
Lecturers:
Assessment of agricultural investment (CP, HV)
Degree programs: “Fruit growing”, “Vegetable growing”, “Regenerative agriculture” and “Field crops production” Degree “Master”, year: full-time – I, part-time – I. Type of the course: optional. Credits: 4 ECTS
Course objectives:
The aim of the course is for students to acquire the necessary theoretical and practical knowledge in evaluation of investment in agriculture, in order to successfully manage agricultural property and consult professional agricultural owners. The achievement of this objective is related to the addition of new economic knowledge and skills as acquired from the subjects “Agricultural Economics” and “Consulting activity” from the Bachelor’s Degree Program.
Course description:
The course includes topics which are of fundamental importance for the understanding of : the nature of investments in real assets; current approaches in determining and valuing cash flows; methods for economic evaluation of investment projects; approaches in selecting investment projects and managing investment risk. In the specialized part, due attention is paid to: basic approaches in assessing the suitability of land for land use; determination of normative prices of agricultural land in Bulgaria; market approaches for the evaluation of agricultural land, the evaluation of permanent crops.
Lecturers:
Assessment of the nutritional quality of agricultural products (FG, VG, RA, FCP)
The course is studied in the degree programs “Fruit growing”, “Vegetable growing”, “Regenerative agriculture” and “Field crops production”, Degree “Master”, course I
Credits: 4.0 ECTS
Course objectives:
The course aims to provide knowledge and skills to assess the quality indicators of different agricultural products.
The tasks are: acquiring knowledge about the indicators and methods for assessing the quality of agricultural products, European and Bulgarian regulatory policies in this area, the impact of key units of agricultural technology on quality and basic indicators for post-harvest control, developing skills for implementation of this knowledge by developing a course assignment on an individual assignment.
Course description:
The course provides knowledge about the requirements for quality of agricultural products, the main provisions of the legislation concerning the quality of agricultural products, some industry standards in the Republic of Bulgaria, general and crop-specific indicators and methods for quality assessment.
The issues related to the analytical techniques for assessing the quality of agricultural products, the influence of the main units of agricultural technology in field crops, fruits and vegetables on the quality and change in the nutritional qualities of agricultural products in the post-harvest or post-harvest period are considered.
Under the methodical guidance of the teacher a course task is developed on an individual assignment, through which skills for application of the acquired knowledge are formed.
Breeding and seed production (A, PP)
Degree program “Agronomy” / “Plant protection”, Degree “Bachelor”, III. Type of the course is required. Credits: 5.5 ECTS.
Course objectives:
Introducing students to the history of breeding in cultivated plants; the characteristics of the gene pool as a source of genetic diversity – the source material for breeding; with the directions and main methods of breeding in sexually and not sexually propagating plants; with the breeding features of self-pollinated and cross-pollinated crops; with methods of breeding, UPOV variety testing for originality of varieties, certification, seed production – organization, requirements and control and variety maintenance; the breeding achievements obtained through classical methods and those of genetic engineering; the regulations regarding the protection of new varieties and the production, testing, seed control and marketing of seed and planting material. Students will acquire up-to-date knowledge of tag related selection.
Course description:
Section I. Selection of cultivated plants. The selection of cultivated plant species is not limited to classical methods – selection, hybridization and experimental mutagenesis. In the selection process polyploidy, heterosis, cytoplasmic and nuclear male sterility are widely used. Biotechnological and molecular methods are relevant. Students will gain knowledge in the field of plant breeding, laying the foundation of knowledge about the selection process, the selection of the selection starting material, the methods for creating genetic diversity, the methods of selection and the system of selection assessments. While the contribution of breeding is to increase the productivity and sustainability of new varieties, seed production leads to sustainable growth in agriculture.
Section II. Variety testing, seed production, variety maintenance and seed control. The course introduces students to the legislation in the field of seed production, the requirements for phytosanitary control and conditions for laboratory analyzes for determining the health status of seeds and planting material, as well as the procedure for recognition and entry of new varieties of plant species in the Bulgarian Primary School. Students get acquainted with the testing methods of the newly selected varieties for establishing the originality of the same – the UPVV RCC test. At the same time students acquire the assessment of varietal and hybrid purity, laboratory evaluation of the seed and planting material, as well as changes in the legal and regulatory framework in connection with the production, certification and trade in seed of cereals; get acquainted with the modern methods of genetic identification, the homogeneity of seed and plant material, as well as the methods for analyzing the presence and quantification of genetically modified plants, the application of marker-related selection.
Breeding and seed production of essential oils and medicinal cultures (MSR)
Degree program “Breeding and seed production of cultivated plants”, Degree “Master of science”, I. Type of the course is elective. Credits: 5.5 ECTS.
Course objectives:
Introducing students to the methods of selection and production of essential oils and medicinal cultures.
Course description:
The course on “Breeding and Seed Production of Essential Oils and Medicinal Cultures” is intended for master’s degree students in the specialty “Selection and Seed Production of Cultivated Plants”. It includes an introduction to the essential essential oils and medicinal cultures and their particularities. During the course, students will be introduced to the methods of selection and production of these cultures.
The curriculum for the discipline “Breeding and Seed Production of Essential Oils and Medicinal Crops” is spread over 15 academic weeks. The total hours are 60 hours (40 lectures and 20 seminars).
Breeding and seed production of field crops (CP, MSR)
Degree programs “Breeding and seed production of cultivated plants” / “Crop production”, Degree “Master of science”, I. Type of the course is required. Credits: 6 ECTS.
Course objectives:
Introducing students to the specific selection and genetic features of field crops, methods and directions of selection, methods of their varietal testing, varietal maintenance, certification of seed and planting material and seed production, as well as the selection achievements and characteristics of the enrolled in the official list of Bulgaria and their biological, economic and technological characteristics.
Course description:
The program of “Selection and Seed Production of Field Crops” is intended for students with a master’s degree in the specialty “Selection and Seed Production of Crops”. It includes acquaintance with the existing gene pool as a source of genetic diversity in the selection of field crops; with the variety of selection methods (classic and new) and the areas of selection; with the biological, genetic and selection features of the plant material; with the types of team; the UPOV variety testing for the originality of varieties in economically important field crops for Bulgaria; with variety maintenance, approbation and seed control, certification of seed and planting material and seed production. Attention is drawn to the selection and testing characteristics. The nature of inheritance is considered in the most important attributes of individual Polish crops of world importance. We summarize the most important characteristics of new varieties of arable crops, obtained by the classical methods of selection and based on the methods of plant biotechnology and genetic engineering. Indicates new breeding achievements.
The purpose of this program is to provide students with and acquire up-to-date knowledge of the systematics of the source material, genetic and selection features, methods and areas of selection, including the specific areas of selection; the nature of inheritance of the most important economic attributes in individual arable crops; the main varietal and testing characteristics. Along with the latest breeding achievements, based on the classical methods of breeding, there is room for new genetically modified varieties resulting from modern genetic engineering methods. In this way, the selection process is presented in all its diversity.
Breeding and seed production of vegetable (HV, BSPCP)
Degree program “Breeding and seed production of cultivated plants” / “Permanent crops and gardening”, Degree “Master of science”, I. Type of the course is required. Credits: 5.5 ECTS.
Course objectives:
Introducing students to the methods of betting on scientific experiment, analysis and processing of obtained results.
Course description:
The program on Breeding and Seed Production of Vegetable includes an introduction to the existing gene pool as a source of genetic diversity in vegetable selection; with the variety of selection methods (classic and new) and the areas of selection; with the biological, genetic and selection features of the plant material; with the types of team; with the UPOV variety test for the originality of the varieties in economically important for Bulgaria vegetable crops; with variety maintenance, approbation and seed control, certification and seed production. Attention is drawn to the selection and testing characteristics. Indicates new breeding achievements.
The purpose of this program is to provide students with an up-to-date knowledge of the genetic and selection features, methods and directions of selection, including the specific areas of selection; the nature of the inheritance of the most important economic attributes for particular vegetable crops; the main varietal and testing characteristics. Along with the latest breeding achievements, based on the classical methods of breeding, there is room for new genetically modified varieties resulting from modern genetic engineering methods. In this way, the selection process is presented in all its diversity.
Breeding of resistance to biotic and abiotic factors (BSPCP)
Degree program “Breeding and seed production of cultivated plants”, Degree “Master of science”, I. Type of the course is required. Credits: 3.5 ECTS.
Course objectives:
The aim of this course is to introduce students to plant immunity, genetic aspects of pathogen-host relationships, virulence of phytopathogens, plant resistance to biotic and abiotic factors and basic selection approaches – conventional and marker, for sustainable plant material.
Course description:
The course “Breeding of Resistance to Abiotic and Biotic Factors” is intended for students with master’s degree in specialty “Selection and Seed Production of Cultivated Plants”. The discipline includes two main sections – selection of resistance to biotic factors (pathogens and insects) and selection of resistance to abiotic factors. The course is divided into three modules, introducing students to the icons, techniques that accelerate the selection process and assess sustainability. During the course, students will learn the development of different techniques for betting on field and laboratory experiments. The training course includes discussion of practical issues on the types of immunity and methods for selecting sustainable plant material. Methods having direct application in the field of selection and plant protection (resistance assessment, diagnosis and epidemiological evaluation), genetic pathogen-host interactions, sources of resistance are discussed in detail. In theoretical and practical terms, information on serological and molecular methods used to identify phytopathogens and the application of molecular markers in conventional and marker selection is provided.
Consulting activity (A, PP)
Degree programs “Agronomy”, Degree „Bachelor“, IV year, Type of the course: required. Credits: 5.5 ECTS
Degree programs “Plant protection”, Degree „Bachelor“, IV year, Type of the course: optional. Credits: 3.5 ECTS
Course objectives:
The aim of the course is to provide students with initial training in providing advisory support to agricultural owners. A significant part of the material could be useful for exercising the same profession in other sectors, and to a certain extent in any business communication. Acquiring the material allows you to obtain basic business knowledge and skills in applying the appropriate methods and resources for consulting, teaching and informing agricultural owners ie. for effective distribution of knowledge and skills, obtained from all other disciplines of the study programme.
Course description:
The course is interdisciplinary. It synthesizes elements of psychology, andragogy, sociology, journalism, management, etc., considered through the prism of the requirements for conducting consultancy activities.
The training material covers several areas, the most important of which are: the nature, organization and management of the consulting activity; methods of communication with consumers; identifications of consumers and evaluation of their needs, methods and instruments for individual, group and mass consulting, planning, monitoring and evaluation of consulting programs.
The training course reflects the European, American and Bulgarian experience in consulting.
Lecturers:
Critical minimums of arable crops (P)
Specialties „Agronomy”, Degree „Bachelor“, IV year, Type of the course: required. Credits: 5.5 ECTS
Specialties “Plant protection”, Degree „Bachelor“, IV year, Type of the course: optional. Credits: 3.5 ECTS
Course objectives:
The aim of the course is to provide students with initial training in providing advisory support to agricultural owners. A significant part of the material could be useful for exercising the same profession in other sectors, and to a certain extent in any business communication. Acquiring the material allows you to obtain basic business knowledge and skills in applying the appropriate methods and resources for consulting, teaching and informing agricultural owners ie. for effective distribution of knowledge and skills, obtained from all other disciplines of the study programme.
Course description:
The course is interdisciplinary. It synthesizes elements of psychology, andragogy, sociology, journalism, management, etc., considered through the prism of the requirements for conducting consultancy activities.
The training material covers several areas, the most important of which are: the nature, organization and management of the consulting activity; methods of communication with consumers; identifications of consumers and evaluation of their needs, methods and instruments for individual, group and mass consulting, planning, monitoring and evaluation of consulting programs.
The training course reflects the European, American and Bulgarian experience in consulting.
Lecturers:
Crop production (A)
Lecturers:
Essential oil and medical crops (A, PP)
Essential oil crops and medical crops (A, PP)
Lecturers:
Feed production (A)
Specialty “Agronomy”, educational qualification degree Bachelor, III year (full-time) as compulsory, IV year (part-time) as optional with 4.5 ECTS credits.
Purpose and objectives of the course:
After mastering the knowledge in the discipline of Feed Production, students can reasonably justify:
– The technology of growing basic annual and perennial forage crops under specific environmental conditions;
– Ways to store forage crops;
– The application of various measures to improve and maintain natural meadows and pastures.
Course content:
In the course of training in Feed production, students gain knowledge of the economic importance, distribution, species diversity, ecological and biological features, production technology of annuals and perennials feed plants for grass and succulent fodder, as well as storage methods – making hay, haying, silage and more. Students acquire basic knowledge about the ecological and biological features of the meadow vegetation, about the basic patterns of development of phytocenoses, as well as about their classification. They acquire the skills to develop the foundations for the improvement and rational use of meadows and pastures and can indicate practical ways of applying them. They gain knowledge of how to use regulated grazing as a way to grow animals naturally.
Lecturers:
Fertilization systems (CP, HV, MSR, BSPCP)
Specialty “Crop breeding”, “Permanent crops and gardening”, “Selection and seed production of crops”, “Soil management”“, Master Degree, I year. Type of the course: elective. Credits: 4.0 ECTS
Course objectives:
The aim of the course is to acquaint students with the importance of applying fertilizer systems in agriculture – planning the fertilizers used in crop rotation, taking into account the precursors, soil fertility, climatic conditions, biological characteristics of crops, varieties, composition and properties of fertilizers.
Significantly improve their farm-level fertilization plans. It will allow them to have a broader view of the mineral nutrition of different crops and to make the right decisions to optimize fertilization and environmental protection
Course description:
The course envisages the study of contemporary theoretical formulations for optimized management of nutrients in field, vegetable and perennial plantations. The nutrition and fertilization of the individual plants with the nutrients – nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium and the basic trace elements for the respective crop – are considered. The specificity of fertilization of different crop groups is studied. Particular attention is paid to the impact of fertilizer optimization on increasing economic efficiency and reducing environmental burden with elements that cause environmental problems in soil, water and the atmosphere. Various agrochemical and visual diagnostic methods are foreseen to determine the need for fertilization; defining fertilization rates for individual nutrients for specific soils and crops; drawing up a nutrient balance at the farm level for a final assessment of the quality of the fertilizer; rules on good agricultural practice; preparation of fertilization systems for different crop groups, etc.
Lecturers:
Form and ornamental fruit growing (FG)
Specialty „Fruit growing”, Degree „Master“, year: full-time – I, part-time – I. Type of the course: elective. Credits: 4,5 ECTS
Course objectives:
To acquaint the students with the basics and methods of form fruit growing. It is a part of the fruit science in where fruit varieties grafted on weak rootstocks trained in ways to produce specimens of regular symmetrical shapes, also called espalier. The main advantage of ornamental fruit growing is the better use of the area, the production larger, tastier and more attractive of fruits. In addition, this method of formation had achieved by early introduction into the production of the cultivated species.
Course description:
Students will become acquainted with the fundamentals of form fruit growing, as well as the pruning to create the appropriate crowns. During the training course, they will study the characteristics and features of the weak and dwarf rootstocks used in this type of fruit growing. The provided practical exercises will utilize the pruning to create the various forms, the pruning of which is specific and requires special skills.
Lecturers:
Fruit growing (A, PP)
Specialties „Agronomy” and “Plant protection”, Degree „Bachelor“, year: full-time – II, part-time – IІІ. Type of the course: required. Credits: 7,5 ECTS in “Plant protection” and 8 ECTS in “ Agronomy” specialty
Specialties “Fruit growing”, “Vegetable growing”, “Plant protection”, „Regenerative agriculture” and “Field crops production”, Degree „Master“, preparatory training, Type of the course: required. Credits: 5 ECTS
Course objectives:
The aim of the course is to provide students with basic knowledge of biological features and technology for creating and growing fruit plantations. In the course of training, they will also study the specific and reproductive manifestations of the ontogenetic development of fruit plants and the activities that may affect them. This basic knowledge, as well as the knowledge of the changes occurring in the fruit plants during the annual cycle related to the changes in the meteorological conditions of the temperate climate zone, will be essential for the ability of future specialists in fruit growing to carry out on time and successfully agro-technical activities in the gardens.
In the practical exercises, they will learn the basic techniques of grafting, types of pruning and pruning operations, as well as ways of forming different types of crowns corresponding to the biology of the respective fruit species.
Course description:
In the first part of the program – Common Fruit Growing paid special attention to the knowledge that students will receive regarding the choice of orchard place, according to the requirements of the different types, cultivars and used rootstocks. The activities related to the preparation of the area, planting and cultivation of the fruit plantations are further discussed. Attention is paid to the right choice of orchard site, the system of soil surface maintenance, fertilization, irrigation, pruning and timely harvesting and marketing of production. It is emphasized that the economic impact of the fruit plantations created depends on these activities, which are reflected in the lecture material.
The second part of the course examines in detail the importance, biological features, requirements for environmental factors and specific technological features of the main fruit species grown in our country: apple, pear, quince, medlar, plum, peach, apricot, sweet and sour cherry, walnut, almond, hazelnut, chestnut, strawberry, raspberry, blackberry, currant etc.
At the end of the course, the peculiarities of the harvesting, storage and sale of the fruit products obtained from the cultivated semen and stone fruits are studied.
Lecturers:
Fundamentals of Organic Agriculture
The discipline is studied in the specialty “Agronomy” and “Plant Protection”, educational qualification degree “Bachelor”, as compulsory in the IV course for full-time education. For part-time education it is planned to study in III course (PP) and V course (AGR). The course brings 5.5 ECTS credits.
Purpose and objectives of the course:
The aim of this course is to give students knowledge about the principles, concepts, techniques and technologies of organic crop production, as well as the legal framework, control and certification of products.
The tasks are: students to get acquainted with the essence of organic farming; with the practical possibilities for growing the main agricultural crops, according to the state requirements for organic production; gain knowledge of regulatory procedures, control and certification of organic production; to learn to integrate different cultural practices such as: composting, mulching, crop rotation, etc. in organic agriculture.
Course content:
The reasons for the emergence of organic farming and its main differences from conventional production are discussed, and each agro-technical measure is considered through the prism of organic production and in accordance with state regulations.
Issues related to the planning of an organic farm are discussed: the arrangement of the agricultural landscape, macro- and micro-zoning, selection of species and varieties, crop rotation, ways to maintain the soil surface, etc., as well as technologies for organic production of the main agricultural crops.
Lecturers:
General agriculture (A, PP)
The course is studied in the specialties „Agronomy” and “Plant protection”, Degree “bachelor”, course I
Credits: Agronomy – 7.0 ECTS; Plant protection 6.0 ECTS
Course objectives:
The aim of the course is to give students knowledge about the main vegetation factors, methods of tillage and crop rotation, and on this basis to form skills for practical application of rational agronomic measures.
To achieve this goal, the following tasks are solved: students get acquainted with the methods for regulating the main factors on which depends the size of the harvest obtained from crops and its quality; methods for increasing and maintaining soil fertility by applying appropriate crop rotations; the principles for application of a differentiated approach in the choice of soil treatment system for the different groups of crops in specific soil, relief, reclamation, etc. conditions.
Course description:
Lectures includes topics in which the knowledge of the specific features that distinguish agriculture from other industries is presented in a systematic way; the content and structure of agrophytocenoses and their differences from natural biocenoses; the significance, the methods of regulation and the regularities in the action of the vegetation factors; types and systems of tillage.
The exercises are developed by including acquaintance with the crop rotations (elements, types, systems) and solving tasks for their compilation, as well as solving problems for application of rational tillage systems, and determining the quality indicators for its implementation in specific conditions.
General crop production (PP)
The course is studied in the specialty “Plant Protection”, educational qualification degree “Bachelor”, II and III course as compulsory with 7.0 ECTS credits.
Course objectives:
In the course General Plant Growing students are given the opportunity to get acquainted and acquire specific theoretical knowledge about the economic importance, origin and distribution, systematics and varieties, regionalized in the country of the main field species, grouped in the following groups: cereals, legumes, technical, tuberous and drug crops. The lecture material and the exercises are structured so that the students get acquainted with the morphology, the peculiarities of growth and development and their biological requirements to the environmental factors, to consistently gain knowledge about the productive possibilities of the individual agricultural species. To receive in detail information about their agricultural techniques, as well as the phases of development of plant species, during which they are most sensitive to the effects of adverse climatic conditions.
Course description:
In the lecture material students will be provided with the most complete information about the origin and distribution of field crops, grouped as follows: cereals, legumes, technical, tuber and food. Students will receive information about the productive capabilities of individual species, taxonomy and varieties, morphological and biological features, farming techniques (place in crop rotation, fertilization, tillage, sowing, care during the growing season, control of diseases and pests, irrigation and harvesting) . The presence of plants of all species (live and herbarium), the photos, almost all of which are copyrighted, field exercises and practices will enrich the students’ practical knowledge about the applied measures for growing, preserving and harvesting crops. The use of specialized literature by the library and the teachers, the search for sources on the Internet, the preparation of abstracts and technological maps and their presentation will enrich the knowledge of students in the discipline.
After completing the course, students will be able to apply in practice what they have learned to obtain high yields of crops, applying good agronomic practices.
Lecturers:
Greenhouse vegetable growing (A, PP)
The discipline is studied in the specialty “Agronomy” and “Plant Protection”, educational qualification degree “Bachelor”, as elective in IV course for full-time education and III or IV course for part-time education. The course brings 4.5 ECTS credits.
Purpose and objectives of the course:
Aim: students to gain basic knowledge about growing vegetable crops in cultivation facilities.
Tasks: students to get acquainted with modern and promising types of plastic and glass greenhouses; to know the different types of technologies for the production of vegetable crops in the cultivation facilities (geoponic, hydroponic, etc.), to be able to draw up a plan for compacted use of the cultivation facilities.
Course content:
The main section of the course is learning the technology of cultivation of vegetable plants in different types of greenhouses. It looks at biological reactions of the plants, the problems of production areas, seedling production and regulation of growth and reproductive reaction of crops, depending on the terms and conditions of cultivation. The program teaching material is grouped by topics that are logically connected and depend on each other.
During the exercises students learn about the different types of greenhouses; internal and external technical equipment for regulating the microclimate. Discussed are compacted schemes for cultivating vegetables in greenhouses. Students are introduced with the technology of cultivation of different types of vegetable crops in elementary protective equipment (forcing) and technologies of compacted cultivation of vegetable crops
Lecturers:
Herbology (A, PP)
Specialty “Agronomy”, educational qualification degree Bachelor’s, II year (full-time), III year (part-time) compulsory 5.5 ECTS credits.
She is studying in the specialty “Plant Protection, Bachelor’s Degree”, II year with obligatory 6.5 ECTS credits.
Course objectives:
Weeds are a major harmful factor in cultural agriculture. They occur annually and everywhere and cause enormous damage to agricultural production.Crops are in competition with all vegetation factors.
Course description:
The course Herbology studies the classification, biological and ecological features of weeds and their harmful effects on crops. In the separate sections of herbology, the main units of integrated weed control are studied – prophylactic and protective measures, agro-technical and agrophysical methods and opportunities for biological control. Chemical weed control is a major part of herbology. The classification of herbic ides, the mechanisms of phytotoxicity and their selective action and their persistence, rules, methods, technique and technology of their application are studied. Another major section of the course is the study of integrated weed control systems in the main crop groups – field, vegetable, essential oil and perennial crops.
Lecturers:
Introduction to Organic Agriculture (A, PP)
Specialty „Agronomy“and “Plant protection“, Degree „Bachelor“, IV course, Type of the course: required for specialty “Plant protection“ and optional for specialty „Agronomy“. Credits: 4.0 ECTS
Course objectives:
The aim of the course is to introduce students to the basic of organic farming and practical possibilities for growing the main crops according to the governmental requirements for organic production.
Course description:
The reasons for the emergence of organic agriculture and its main differences from conventional production are discussed, with each agrotechnical event being considered through the prism of organic production and in accordance with state regulatory requirements.
Issues related to the planning of an organic farm, the technologies for organic production of the main groups of crops and the possibilities for their realization are discussed.
Management of organic residues
The course is studied in the specialty “Regenerative Agriculture” and “Field crops production”, educational qualification degree “Master”, I course as an elective with 4.5 ECTS credits.
Course objectives:
To acquire knowledge and ideas about the strategies in the field of recycling of organic residues from farms and the food industry:
– Familiarization with European and national legislation in the field of recycling of organic residues from farms and the food industry
– Balancing nutrients at farm level using organic fertilizers, the basis for maintaining soil fertility
– The rules for good agricultural practice; utilization of organic fertilizers and composts; preparation of fertilization systems, etc.
– Processing of organic residues and the impact on the environment – harms and benefits
– Technologies for obtaining compost from various sources
– Technologies for obtaining concentrated organic fertilizers – liquid and solid
Course description:
It is planned to study the modern theoretical formulations for the reutilization of organic residues from agriculture and the food industry. Different methods of reutilization and their impact on the environment and different indicators of soil fertility are considered. Special attention is paid to the ecological problems of fertilization with the obtained organic fertilizers.
The study of modern methods and approaches for determining the parameters of composting of organic residues is envisaged; production of enriched organic fertilizers, drawing up a balance of nutrients with the participation of organic fertilizers at farm level; the rules for good agricultural practice; utilization of organic fertilizers and composts, etc.
Lecturers:
Methodology of the scientific experiment (CP, HV, MSR, BSPCP)
Specialty „Breeding and seed production of cultivated plants“ / “Permanent crops and gardening“ / “Crop production“, Degree „Master of science “, I. Type of the course is required. Credits: 4 ECTS.
Course objectives:
Introducing students to the methods of betting on scientific experiment, analysis and processing of obtained results.
Course description:
The course in “Methodology of the Scientific Experiment” is intended for students of master’s degree training in the specialty “Selection and Seed Production of Cultivated Plants”. It includes familiarization with the basic methods of scientific research and staging of laboratory, vascular and field experiments. During the course, students will become familiar with and develop different schemes of betting on field and laboratory experiments. The course includes methods and schemes for betting on a scientific experiment in plant protection and methods for biometric analysis, processing and interpretation of experiment data. The acquired knowledge during this course of study is a necessary and obligatory condition for the development of the students’ diploma works, as well as for future research work and dissertation works.
Methodology of the scientific experiment in plant protection (PP-MSc)
Specialty „Plant Protection“, Degree „Master of science “, I. Type of the course is required. Credits: 4,5 ECTS.
Course objectives:
Introducing students to the methods of betting on scientific experiment, analysis and processing of obtained results.
Course description:
The course on “Methodology of the Scientific Experiment in Plant Protection” is intended for students of master’s degree training in the specialty “Plant Protection”, specialization “Plant pest control”. It includes familiarization with the basic methods of scientific research and staging of laboratory, vascular and field experiments. During the course, students will become familiar with and develop different schemes of betting on field and laboratory experiments. The course includes methods and schemes for betting on a scientific experiment in plant protection and methods for biometric analysis, processing and interpretation of experiment data. The acquired knowledge during this course of study is a necessary and obligatory condition for the development of the students’ diploma works, as well as for future research work and dissertation works.
Minimal and zero tillage
The course is studied in the specialty “Regenerative Agriculture”, educational qualification degree “Master”, I course as compulsory with 6.0 ECTS credits.
Course objectives:
To acquaint students with the importance of minimum and zero treatments in crop production for the preservation of soil fertility. The studied material will be presented in the direction of integrated application of the technique of minimum and zero tillage in different soil differences and crops, in order to optimize costs and increase yields.
To gain in-depth knowledge of technologies related to soil cultivation and plant nutrition.
Course description:
Agrotechnics provides high, constant and quality yields with the most rational organization of labor and other means of production, under specific natural and economic conditions. The restriction of the tillage leads to changes in the other activities carried out during the vegetation of the cultivated plants.
Areas related to tillage, sowing and planting methods, weed control, crop rotation optimization and fertilization will be affected.
The latest machines and units designed for minimal and zero processing will be presented.
The need to preserve soil fertility originated with agriculture in the ancient world, so the relationship of applied agricultural techniques and reducing soil erosion and increasing organic matter in the soil will be considered.
In the program the study material is grouped by topics that are logically related and depend on each other.
Lecturers:
Mushroom growing (A, PP)
The discipline is studied in the specialty “Agronomy” and “Plant Protection”, educational qualification degree “Bachelor”, as an elective in II course (PP) and III course (AGR) for full-time education and III course for part-time education. The course brings 4.5 ECTS credits.
Purpose and objectives of the course:
Aim: students to gain knowledge about the technologies for mushroom cultivation in Bulgaria – both button mushroom and other types of mushrooms.
Objectives: students to learn the requirements for the factors of growth and development of the studied species of cultivated mushrooms, to be able to compile recipes for compost, depending on the available materials and to know the essence of microbiological fermentation and composting phases; be able to select the material on which mushrooms will be grown in extensive technology, as well as the appropriate mycelium, according to the washed technology.
Course content:
The lecture material covers questions about the systematics and morphological features of the different cultivated species of Agaricus, Pleurotus, Lentinula, Tuber, etc.; their requirements to the factors of growth and development and respectively to the growing conditions; the essence of microbiological fermentation; composting phases; the production of mycelium and the technologies for the production of the considered species of cultivated mushrooms.
During the seminars, issues related to the different systems of mushroom production, the types of adapted premises for mushroom farms, as well as the requirements for specially built mushroom farms are discussed. Students gain knowledge about the different types of compost, both about the most widely grown mushroom – the mushroom, and about other types of mushrooms that are cultivated in our country or can be cultivated.
Lecturers:
Non-traditional agricultural crops
The discipline is studied in the specialty “Regenerative agriculture”, educational qualification degree “Master”, as elective in the first year for full-time and part-time education. The course brings 4.5 ECTS credits.
Purpose and objectives of the course:
The aim of the course is to give students basic knowledge related to non-traditional crops that are important and can find their place in regenerative agriculture.
Course content:
The course covers questions about the biological requirements to the factors of growth and development of the considered non-traditional crops, their systematics and morphological features, as well as the conditions for their production. Their positive features and where they can find their place in regenerative agriculture are considered.
Lecturers:
Organic crop production (FCP, RA)
It is studied in specialty “Field crops production” and “Regenerative agriculture”, Degree „Master“
Credits: 4.0 ECTS
Course objectives:
The course aims to provide knowledge about organic crop production and the fundamental differences with conventional.
The tasks are: acquiring knowledge about the specifics of organic crop production and formation of skills for application of its basic principles in agricultural practice, skills for prevention of risk factors in organic production.
Course description:
The course provides knowledge about the principles of organic plant growing. Students get acquainted with the specifics of agricultural technology and the correct selection of field crops grown in organic crops. The issues related to the maintenance of soil fertility and the main methods of pest control are considered.
Under the methodical guidance of the teacher, agrotechnics of the crops, characteristic for the biological plant growing, is developed.
Students get acquainted with specific morphological characteristics of field crops grown through organic plant growing, their systematics and rules for choosing varieties.
Organic Vegetable Growing
The discipline is studied in the specialty “Vegetable Growing”, educational qualification degree “Master”, as required in the first year for full-time and part-time education. The course brings 6 ECTS credits.
Purpose and objectives of the course:
The aim of the course is to give students knowledge related to alternative ways of producing vegetable species, namely – organic vegetable production. This course builds on the knowledge gained in the disciplines “Vegetable Growing” and “Introduction to Organic Agriculture” from the bachelor’s degree.
Course content:
The lecture material covers questions about the types of plant growing systems, the possibility of their mixed cultivation, composting of vegetable waste and mulching. Agrotechnical and non-chemical methods and approaches against pests are considered. A comparison is made between different environmentally friendly production systems and conventional agriculture. Topics related to biodynamic vegetable production, which, like organic farming, is also certified production, are also covered.
During the exercises the students will get acquainted with the technologies for organic production of vegetable species, and the possibilities for their inclusion in the different systems of cultivation are considered.
Lecturers:
Organic viticulture and winemaking (HV)
Specialty „Perennial crops and horticulture”, Degree „Master“, I Type of the course: elective Credits: 4 ECTS
Course objectives:
The Organic viticulture and winemaking curriculum for the Master’s Degree in program Perennial crops and horticulture aims to introduce students to the basic technologies, principles and methods used in organic viticulture and winemaking.
Tasks – The offered course of study includes lectures that students will be acquainted with: the subject, tasks and importance of organic harvest and wine production, technologies for the ecological cultivation of vineyards and organic wine production, organoleptic evaluation of the quality of grapes, the technological characteristics of the grapes as a raw material for wine-making, as well as the main care for the wines obtained.
Through the seminars, students will gain practical skills in grape quality, preparation, cleaning and measuring of wine vessels. The processing of grapes and the preparation of yeast, improving the composition of musts and wines. The technology for producing wines and storing them.
Course description:
The set aim will be achieved through a series of lectures, including a detailed elaboration of the above topics, as well as presentations of some practical and technological formulations. Students will enrich their knowledge of the course of the formation of grape production, the physical and physiological and biochemical changes in the process of growing grapes and the influence of environmental and technological factors on these processes. They will also gain basic knowledge of zoning and the particularities of growing table and wine grape varieties.
Students will get acquainted with the subject, tasks and importance of organic vine growing and winemaking, technologies for ecological vine growing and production of wine, organoleptic evaluation of the quality of grapes and wines, technological characteristics of grapes as raw material for wine production and the main technological activities in the production of organic wine, as well as the care of wines.
Organization of agricultural territories (MSR)
Specialty: Мanagement of soil resources, Degree „Master of science“, I course: required Credits: 6 ECTS
Course objectives:
The course aims to give knowledge about the structure of agricultural territories.
The tasks are: acquiring knowledge about the specifics of the structure of the agricultural territories and forming skills for the correct selection of crops and designing crop rotation systems under specific soil conditions.
Course description:
The course provides knowledge about the organization of agricultural territories. Students are introduced to the specifics of the main categories of arable land (fields, orchards, vineyards, meadows, etc.) and of arable land (pastures, slopes, etc.). The principles and methodology for the selection of crops under specific parameters characterizing the respective territory are studied.
Tasks for the construction of crop rotation systems are solved, in the presence of sharp differences within the same farm, in soil, relief and irrigation conditions.
Under the methodical guidance of the teacher, a course problem based on individual baseline data is solved, aiming at forming skills for practical application of the obtained theoretical knowledge.
Plant growing
The course is studied in the specialty “Agronomy”, educational qualification degree “Bachelor”, II and III course as compulsory with 10.0 ECTS credits.
Course objectives:
In the process of training with lectures and exercises is aimed at enabling students to acquire specific knowledge about the productive capabilities of different groups of field crops, the system and the appropriate varieties for growing in different regions of the country. To be acquainted with the morphological features and biological requirements of field crops and the overall agricultural techniques for their cultivation. As a result of the lecture course, laboratory and field exercises and practice the students to master the presented information and acquire specific knowledge and practical skills in recognizing the individual field crops and the full technology for their cultivation and harvesting.
Course description:
The lecture material include information about the origin and distribution of field crops grouped into three groups: cereals, legumes and technical. Students will receive information about the productive capabilities of individual groups of plants, taxonomy and varieties, morphological and biological features, agricultural techniques for their cultivation (place in crop rotation, fertilization, area preparation and sowing), sowing rate and timing of sowing, care during the growing season: treatments, feeding, irrigation, weed control, diseases and pests, harvesting: ways and timing. Collecting and preparing a herbarium collection from the main groups of crops will help to better identify them. The field exercises will increase the students’ practical knowledge of the cultivation and harvesting activities. The search for literary sources on the Internet, the preparation of abstracts and their presentation will enrich the knowledge of students in the discipline.
Upon completion of the course, students will be able to carry out scientifically sound, environmentally friendly and effective management of agricultural production of various crops studied in the discipline.
Lecturers:
Pomology and Plant breeding of fruit crops (HV, BSPCP)
Specialty „Plant breeding and seed production”, Degree „Master“, year: full-time – I, part-time – I. Type of the course: required. Credits: 5,5 ECTS
Specialty „Perennial plantations and horticulture”, Degree „Master“, year: full-time – I, part-time – I. Type of the course: elective. Credits: 5,5 ECTS
Course objectives:
The purpose of the program is to further develop, enrich and refine the knowledge acquired in the bachelor course for the creation and introduction of new higher yielding and higher quality varieties, the role of the variety in fruit science and practice in accordance with the new market requirements. The particulars of the individual groups of fruit crops will be studied in pomological features. Along with mastering the skills for defining the varieties, the specific methods for recognizing the varieties by their unique qualities will be studied.
After completing the “Pomology and plant breeding of fruit crops” course, students will acquire the necessary theoretical and practical training to identify, morphologically and biologically describe the varieties, their production value, as well as the opportunities for their zoning and recommending to amateur fruit growers and industrial cultivation.
Course description:
During the study of the discipline “Pomology and plant breeding of fruit crops” students will be introduced to the techniques of the breeding process, the methods used in the breeding of fruit species, the basic pomological characteristics of the variety, the principles of zoning in cultivation, as well as methods for breeding improvement of the varieties.
Particular attention will be paid to the introduction and zoning of the fruit varieties. Students will acquire practical knowledge to determine the morphological and pomological characteristics of the fruit species from the main groups of pome, stone, nut and berry fruit species.
Practicum of Herbology (PP-MSc)
Studied in the field of Plant Protection, Master’s Degree, 1st year as an elective 3.5 ECTS credits.
Course objectives:
The course Practicum of Herbology builds on the students’ knowledge gained from their undergraduate training.
Course description:
The discipline Practicum of Herbology studies the economic importance of the problem of weeds, their biological classification, their filing and forecasting. A major section of the course is the study of the biological and ecological characteristics of weeds, as well as methods and means of combating them. The Herbology Practicum also discusses non-chemical methods of weed control. The acquired knowledge and practical skills will allow students to solve the issues related to integrated weed control in all field and vegetable crops, perennial crops, flowering crops, essential oil and medicinal plants and environmental protection opportunities.
Lecturers:
Precision agriculture (CP)
Specialty “Crop breeding”, “Permanent crops and gardening”, “Selection and seed production of crops”, “Soil management”“, Master Degree, I year. Type of the course: elective. Credits: 4.0 ECTS
Course objectives:
The aim of the course is to acquaint students with the importance of applying precision agriculture in modern conditions of computerized agricultural machinery. Taking into account the natural variation of soil fertility in the application of different agricultural practices – fertilization, irrigation, reclamation, soil cultivation, plant protection, etc.
Gain basic knowledge of spatial data processing and integration into GIS systems.
Using the knowledge gained in soil fertility monitoring and environmental status
Course description:
Precision agriculture is related to the use of the principles of soil-environmental monitoring. Modern agriculture is unthinkable without the application of precision farming practices. The need to protect soil fertility originated with agriculture in the ancient world – combating salinization, acidification, erosion and reducing organic matter in the soil. Since 1996, with the advancement of computer technology, the introduction of precision farming practices has become possible. They are the basis for the optimized use of different agricultural technologies according to the soil fertility in a specific place in a given field or the need for a certain impact on the crop in a particular place. This helps to optimize the redistribution of a resource or to minimize its use. Approaches to precision agriculture in soil cultivation, sowing, weed control, pests and diseases will be considered. Fertilization and irrigation technologies will be emphasized. Different vegetation indices obtained by remote survey methods will be considered.
Lecturers:
Private crop production (A)
Lecturers:
Production of fruit planting material
Specialty „Fruit growing”, Degree „Master“, year: full-time – I, part-time – I. Type of the course: elective. Credits: 4 ECTS
Course objectives:
The aim of the course “Production of fruit planting material” is students to learn the parts of fruit nursery, production of seed and vegetative rootstocks, as well as different ways of vegetative propagation.
The objectives of the training course are to broaden students’ knowledge of fruit growing and small fruit crops. This is done by studying the technology for production of planting material from fruit tree species (pome and stone fruits) and the main small fruit crops (strawberry, raspberry, blackberry and currants).
Course description:
In the course of training in the subject “Production of fruit planting material” students will learn the content parts fruit nursery, the technology for production of seed and vegetative rootstocks. They will expand their knowledge and skills about the different ways of vegetative propagation of fruit crops.
The main place in the curriculum is given to study the technology for production of grafted fruit trees so that the future specialists can acquire the necessary knowledge for timely and successful implementation of the necessary measures for the production of planting material of fruit species in the conditions of our country.
Lecturers:
Rare fruit crops (A)
Specialty „Agronomy”, Degree „Bachelor“, year: full-time – III, part-time – IІІ. Type of the course: elective. Credits: 4,5 ECTS
Course objectives:
Students will get acquainted with the morphological and biological features of rare and perspective fruit species in our country. The ways of their propagation, production of planting material, as well as the technology for their cultivation will be studied. Special attention will be paid to the varieties and their medicinal qualities, as well as to the methods of harvesting, storage and use in the food and pharmaceutical industries.
Course description:
The morphological and biological peculiarities of the rare and perspective fruit crops for our country are studied. Students will receive knowledge about the propagation and production of planting material from the respective crops. They will learn technologies for their cultivation, both outdoors and under controlled conditions. They will become familiar with how to store and use these crops, such as food and medicine.
Lecturers:
Rare vegetable crops (A)
The discipline is studied in the specialty “Vegetable Growing”, educational qualification degree “Master”, as elective in the first year for full-time and part-time education. The course brings 4.5 ECTS credits.
Purpose and objectives of the course:
The aim of the Rare Vegetable Crops course is to give students in-depth knowledge of the rare vegetable species available on the market in recent years. To acquaint them with the characteristic features of these plants, arising from their great variety of vegetable species and varieties and their specific requirements for growth and development factors. To upgrade their knowledge of “Vegetable Growing”, obtained in the bachelor’s course.
Course content:
The course covers questions about the biological requirements for growth and development factors and the morphology of different types of rare vegetable crops, their systematics, production directions and technological solutions for each of the studied species. Questions are discussed about the possibility of growing in our country, the demand and supply of individual species, as well as their place on the table. Students will acquire practical skills related to seed recognition and seedling production of rare types of vegetable crops.
Lecturers:
Regenerative horticulture
The discipline is studied in the specialty “Regenerative agriculture”, educational qualification degree “Master”, as elective in the first year for full-time and part-time education. The course brings 6 ECTS credits.
Purpose and objectives of the course:
The aim of the course is to give students knowledge related to alternative ways of producing vegetable species, namely – regenerative gardening. This course builds on the knowledge gained in the discipline “Vegetable Growing” and “Introduction to Organic Agriculture” from the bachelor’s degree.
Course content:
The lecture material covers questions about the basic principles and practices in regenerative gardening, systems for growing plants, the possibility of their mixed cultivation, as well as mixes for roof crops suitable for vegetable production. The main focus is on permaculture – a system that is a regenerative gardening practice. The basic principles and methods for garden design are considered. Zoning, the creation of communities and the meaning and creation of the so-called guilds. A comparison is made between different environmentally friendly production methods and conventional agriculture.
During the exercises, discussions with the students on the topics of the lectures are provided, as well as many individual tasks in order to consolidate the material.
Lecturers:
Remote methods in soil science (MSR)
Specialty “Soil management“, Master Degree, I year. Type of the course: elective. Credits: 4.0 ECTS
Course objectives:
The aim of the course is to To acquaint the students with the importance of the application of the distance methods applicable in soil research related to soil mapping, delineation of contaminated territories and precision agriculture. Taking into account the natural variation of soil fertility for the application of different agricultural practices – fertilization, irrigation, reclamation, soil cultivation, plant protection, etc. To acquire basic knowledge of spatial data processing based on geostatistics and their integration into GIS systems. Get more remote access information (satellites, planes, drones). Use of the acquired knowledge in monitoring of soil fertility and environmental status.
Course description:
The use of remote sensing methods for soil and environmental monitoring in environmental and precision agriculture research is of great importance and necessity. The basic quality of soil (soil fertility) is at the heart of the development of human society on Earth. Soil is the main element of the cycle of nutrients or toxic elements in their geological and biological cycle. From soil, these elements can enter the atmosphere, the hydrosphere or through plants directly into the human food chain.
The study of all these processes and soil parameters by remote sensing methods allows for faster and more accurate estimation of large areas affected by some undesirable process or of variation of soil fertility at field, farm or administrative level.
The course covers both the use of remote sensing methods (satellites) and close remote sensing methods (planes and drones).
The possibility of including the results of remote sensing in GIS, geostatistics and application of different indices for estimation of different studied parameters – vegetation, soil, soil moisture, etc. will be shown.
Small fruit crops
Specialty „Fruit growing”, Degree „Master“, year: full-time – I, part-time – II. Type of the course: elective. Credits: 4 ECTS
Course objectives:
The aim of the course “Small fruit crops” is students to learn the biological and economic qualities of strawberries, raspberries, blackberries, currants (black, white and red), gooseberies, blueberries, aronia and sea buckthorn.
The objectives of the training course are to broaden students’ knowledge of fruit growing, pomology, planting production. This is done by studying the technology of creating and growing fruit plantations, perspective varieties.
Course description:
In the course of training in the subject “Small fruit crops” students will learn the biological and economic features of strawberries, raspberries, blackberries, currants (black, white and red), barbed grapes, blueberries, aronia and sea buckthorn. Their requirements for soil and climatic conditions.
The main place in the curriculum is given to the students to produce technological maps for the creation and cultivation of small fruit crops subject to study, so that future specialists can acquire the necessary knowledge to perform timely and successfully necessary agrotechnical activities for the creation and cultivation of fruit plantations from berry crops in the conditions of our country.
Lecturers:
Soil fertility management (MSR)
The course is studied in the specialty “Fruit growing”, “Vegetable growing”, „Regenerative agriculture” and “Field crops production”educational qualification degree “Master”, I course as optional with 3.0 ECTS credits.
Course objectives:
To acquire knowledge on:
– The parameters of soil fertility in different soil and climatic conditions
– Modern theoretical formulations for plant nutrition
– Methods for characterizing the ability of different soils to supply crops with nutrients.
– The influence of fertilization on various indicators of soil fertility.
– Modern methods for determining the needs for fertilization, types and forms of fertilizers, the specifics of fertilization of different groups of crops.
– Need for chemical land reclamation
Course description:
The study of modern theoretical formulations for plant nutrition and methods for characterizing the ability of different soils to supply crops with nutrients is envisaged. The nutrition of plants with the individual elements and the influence of fertilizers on various indicators of soil fertility are considered. The various methods for increasing soil fertility are studied – soil reclamation and application of food compounds or substrates. The modern methods for determining the needs for fertilization, the types and forms of fertilizers, the specifics of fertilization of different groups of crops are studied. Special attention is paid to the ecological problems of fertilization.
The study of modern methods and approaches for determining the main agrochemical indicators of soils is envisaged; agrochemical diagnostics of fertilization needs; determination of the norms for fertilization with the individual nutrients for specific soils and crops; drawing up a balance of nutrients at farm level; the rules for good agricultural practice; utilization of organic fertilizers and composts, etc.
Lecturers:
Soil Science (A, PP)
Special agroecology (CP)
Storage and processing (A, PP)
The course is studied in the specialty “Fruit growing”, “Vegetable growing”, „Regenerative agriculture” and “Field crops production”educational qualification degree “Master”, I course as optional with 3.0 ECTS credits.
Course objectives:
To acquire knowledge on:
– The parameters of soil fertility in different soil and climatic conditions
– Modern theoretical formulations for plant nutrition
– Methods for characterizing the ability of different soils to supply crops with nutrients.
– The influence of fertilization on various indicators of soil fertility.
– Modern methods for determining the needs for fertilization, types and forms of fertilizers, the specifics of fertilization of different groups of crops.
– Need for chemical land reclamation
Course description:
The study of modern theoretical formulations for plant nutrition and methods for characterizing the ability of different soils to supply crops with nutrients is envisaged. The nutrition of plants with the individual elements and the influence of fertilizers on various indicators of soil fertility are considered. The various methods for increasing soil fertility are studied – soil reclamation and application of food compounds or substrates. The modern methods for determining the needs for fertilization, the types and forms of fertilizers, the specifics of fertilization of different groups of crops are studied. Special attention is paid to the ecological problems of fertilization.
The study of modern methods and approaches for determining the main agrochemical indicators of soils is envisaged; agrochemical diagnostics of fertilization needs; determination of the norms for fertilization with the individual nutrients for specific soils and crops; drawing up a balance of nutrients at farm level; the rules for good agricultural practice; utilization of organic fertilizers and composts, etc.
Lecturers:
Storage of agricultural products (А, PP)
The course is studied in the specialty “Fruit growing”, “Vegetable growing”, „Regenerative agriculture” and “Field crops production”educational qualification degree “Master”, I course as optional with 3.0 ECTS credits.
Course objectives:
To acquire knowledge on:
– The parameters of soil fertility in different soil and climatic conditions
– Modern theoretical formulations for plant nutrition
– Methods for characterizing the ability of different soils to supply crops with nutrients.
– The influence of fertilization on various indicators of soil fertility.
– Modern methods for determining the needs for fertilization, types and forms of fertilizers, the specifics of fertilization of different groups of crops.
– Need for chemical land reclamation
Course description:
The study of modern theoretical formulations for plant nutrition and methods for characterizing the ability of different soils to supply crops with nutrients is envisaged. The nutrition of plants with the individual elements and the influence of fertilizers on various indicators of soil fertility are considered. The various methods for increasing soil fertility are studied – soil reclamation and application of food compounds or substrates. The modern methods for determining the needs for fertilization, the types and forms of fertilizers, the specifics of fertilization of different groups of crops are studied. Special attention is paid to the ecological problems of fertilization.
The study of modern methods and approaches for determining the main agrochemical indicators of soils is envisaged; agrochemical diagnostics of fertilization needs; determination of the norms for fertilization with the individual nutrients for specific soils and crops; drawing up a balance of nutrients at farm level; the rules for good agricultural practice; utilization of organic fertilizers and composts, etc.
Lecturers:
Technologies in fruit growing (HV)
The course is studied in the specialty “Fruit growing”, “Vegetable growing”, „Regenerative agriculture” and “Field crops production”educational qualification degree “Master”, I course as optional with 3.0 ECTS credits.
Course objectives:
To acquire knowledge on:
– The parameters of soil fertility in different soil and climatic conditions
– Modern theoretical formulations for plant nutrition
– Methods for characterizing the ability of different soils to supply crops with nutrients.
– The influence of fertilization on various indicators of soil fertility.
– Modern methods for determining the needs for fertilization, types and forms of fertilizers, the specifics of fertilization of different groups of crops.
– Need for chemical land reclamation
Course description:
The study of modern theoretical formulations for plant nutrition and methods for characterizing the ability of different soils to supply crops with nutrients is envisaged. The nutrition of plants with the individual elements and the influence of fertilizers on various indicators of soil fertility are considered. The various methods for increasing soil fertility are studied – soil reclamation and application of food compounds or substrates. The modern methods for determining the needs for fertilization, the types and forms of fertilizers, the specifics of fertilization of different groups of crops are studied. Special attention is paid to the ecological problems of fertilization.
The study of modern methods and approaches for determining the main agrochemical indicators of soils is envisaged; agrochemical diagnostics of fertilization needs; determination of the norms for fertilization with the individual nutrients for specific soils and crops; drawing up a balance of nutrients at farm level; the rules for good agricultural practice; utilization of organic fertilizers and composts, etc.
Lecturers:
Technologies in vegetable growing (HV)
The course is studied in the specialty “Fruit growing”, “Vegetable growing”, „Regenerative agriculture” and “Field crops production”educational qualification degree “Master”, I course as optional with 3.0 ECTS credits.
Course objectives:
To acquire knowledge on:
– The parameters of soil fertility in different soil and climatic conditions
– Modern theoretical formulations for plant nutrition
– Methods for characterizing the ability of different soils to supply crops with nutrients.
– The influence of fertilization on various indicators of soil fertility.
– Modern methods for determining the needs for fertilization, types and forms of fertilizers, the specifics of fertilization of different groups of crops.
– Need for chemical land reclamation
Course description:
The study of modern theoretical formulations for plant nutrition and methods for characterizing the ability of different soils to supply crops with nutrients is envisaged. The nutrition of plants with the individual elements and the influence of fertilizers on various indicators of soil fertility are considered. The various methods for increasing soil fertility are studied – soil reclamation and application of food compounds or substrates. The modern methods for determining the needs for fertilization, the types and forms of fertilizers, the specifics of fertilization of different groups of crops are studied. Special attention is paid to the ecological problems of fertilization.
The study of modern methods and approaches for determining the main agrochemical indicators of soils is envisaged; agrochemical diagnostics of fertilization needs; determination of the norms for fertilization with the individual nutrients for specific soils and crops; drawing up a balance of nutrients at farm level; the rules for good agricultural practice; utilization of organic fertilizers and composts, etc.
Lecturers:
Technologies in viticulture (PC)
The course is studied in the specialty “Fruit growing”, “Vegetable growing”, „Regenerative agriculture” and “Field crops production”educational qualification degree “Master”, I course as optional with 3.0 ECTS credits.
Course objectives:
To acquire knowledge on:
– The parameters of soil fertility in different soil and climatic conditions
– Modern theoretical formulations for plant nutrition
– Methods for characterizing the ability of different soils to supply crops with nutrients.
– The influence of fertilization on various indicators of soil fertility.
– Modern methods for determining the needs for fertilization, types and forms of fertilizers, the specifics of fertilization of different groups of crops.
– Need for chemical land reclamation
Course description:
The study of modern theoretical formulations for plant nutrition and methods for characterizing the ability of different soils to supply crops with nutrients is envisaged. The nutrition of plants with the individual elements and the influence of fertilizers on various indicators of soil fertility are considered. The various methods for increasing soil fertility are studied – soil reclamation and application of food compounds or substrates. The modern methods for determining the needs for fertilization, the types and forms of fertilizers, the specifics of fertilization of different groups of crops are studied. Special attention is paid to the ecological problems of fertilization.
The study of modern methods and approaches for determining the main agrochemical indicators of soils is envisaged; agrochemical diagnostics of fertilization needs; determination of the norms for fertilization with the individual nutrients for specific soils and crops; drawing up a balance of nutrients at farm level; the rules for good agricultural practice; utilization of organic fertilizers and composts, etc.
Lecturers:
Urban Horticulture
The course is studied in the specialty “Fruit growing”, “Vegetable growing”, „Regenerative agriculture” and “Field crops production”educational qualification degree “Master”, I course as optional with 3.0 ECTS credits.
Course objectives:
To acquire knowledge on:
– The parameters of soil fertility in different soil and climatic conditions
– Modern theoretical formulations for plant nutrition
– Methods for characterizing the ability of different soils to supply crops with nutrients.
– The influence of fertilization on various indicators of soil fertility.
– Modern methods for determining the needs for fertilization, types and forms of fertilizers, the specifics of fertilization of different groups of crops.
– Need for chemical land reclamation
Course description:
The study of modern theoretical formulations for plant nutrition and methods for characterizing the ability of different soils to supply crops with nutrients is envisaged. The nutrition of plants with the individual elements and the influence of fertilizers on various indicators of soil fertility are considered. The various methods for increasing soil fertility are studied – soil reclamation and application of food compounds or substrates. The modern methods for determining the needs for fertilization, the types and forms of fertilizers, the specifics of fertilization of different groups of crops are studied. Special attention is paid to the ecological problems of fertilization.
The study of modern methods and approaches for determining the main agrochemical indicators of soils is envisaged; agrochemical diagnostics of fertilization needs; determination of the norms for fertilization with the individual nutrients for specific soils and crops; drawing up a balance of nutrients at farm level; the rules for good agricultural practice; utilization of organic fertilizers and composts, etc.
Lecturers:
Variety Testing and Registration (CP, BSPCP)
Vegetable growing (A, PP)
The discipline is studied in the specialty “Agronomy” and “Plant Protection”, educational qualification degree “Bachelor”, as required, two semesters in the II and III course for full-time study and one semester in the III course for part-time study. The course carries 8.5 (PP) and 9.5 (AGR) ECTS credits.
Purpose and objectives of the course:
The aim of the Vegetable Growing is to provide students deep theoretical and applied knowledge abought this sector of agriculture. To introduce them to the characteristics of vegetable arising from a wide variety of vegetable species and varieties and their specific requirements for the growth factors and development. Students get acquainted with the good agricultural practices to increase vegetable plants’ status against biotic and abiotic stress.
Course content:
The lectures cover issues concerning the requirements of vegetable plants to the factors of growth and development. Discussed are the types of crop rotations; tillage in vegetable gardens; biological requirement and principles for predicting the harvest yields and time for harvesting of production. In other part students will learn about the biological requirements of each vegetable species; with directions of production and technologies for field production.
During practicals students learn about the different vegetables’ classifications; methods of vegetables breeding, vegetables’ seeds qualities and preparation practices before sowing. Seedlings production is seen as a key moment in the vegetable growing, students learn about different types of greenhouses. Students study the morphology of different vegetable species and varieties and their systematics. Students acquire practical skills related to the identifying of vegetable seeds, seedling production of vegetables and their cultivation.
Lecturers:
- Assoc. Prof. PhD Milena Hristova Yordanova
- Assist. Prof. Gergana Yordanova Mladenova
Viticulture (A, PP)
The discipline is studied in the specialty “Agronomy” and “Plant Protection”, educational qualification degree “Bachelor”, as required, two semesters in the II and III course for full-time study and one semester in the III course for part-time study. The course carries 8.5 (PP) and 9.5 (AGR) ECTS credits.
Purpose and objectives of the course:
The aim of the Vegetable Growing is to provide students deep theoretical and applied knowledge abought this sector of agriculture. To introduce them to the characteristics of vegetable arising from a wide variety of vegetable species and varieties and their specific requirements for the growth factors and development. Students get acquainted with the good agricultural practices to increase vegetable plants’ status against biotic and abiotic stress.
Course content:
The lectures cover issues concerning the requirements of vegetable plants to the factors of growth and development. Discussed are the types of crop rotations; tillage in vegetable gardens; biological requirement and principles for predicting the harvest yields and time for harvesting of production. In other part students will learn about the biological requirements of each vegetable species; with directions of production and technologies for field production.
During practicals students learn about the different vegetables’ classifications; methods of vegetables breeding, vegetables’ seeds qualities and preparation practices before sowing. Seedlings production is seen as a key moment in the vegetable growing, students learn about different types of greenhouses. Students study the morphology of different vegetable species and varieties and their systematics. Students acquire practical skills related to the identifying of vegetable seeds, seedling production of vegetables and their cultivation.
Lecturers:
- Assoc. Prof. PhD Milena Hristova Yordanova
- Assist. Prof. Gergana Yordanova Mladenova
Weed control systems (CP)
Specialty “Crop production”, educational qualification degree Master’s Degree, 1st year as compulsory with 6.0 ECTS credits.
Studying the specialty “Selection and Seed Production of Cultivated Plants”, educational qualification degree Master’s Degree, 1st year as an optional with 3.0 ECTS credits.
Course objectives:
The course Weed Control Systems in the main field crops builds on the students’ knowledge gained from their undergraduate training.
Course description:
Weed control systems in the main arable crops study the biological and ecological features of weeds, which mainly weed the arable crops, as well as their harmful effects on them. In different sections of the course, students are introduced to the units of integrated weed control – protective and prophylactic measures, agro-technical and agrophysical methods for their elimination. Chemical control agents occupy an important place in weed control. The classification of herbicides, the mechanisms of their selective action, the rules, methods, techniques and technology of their application are studied. The main section of the course is the study of the specific features of integrated weed control systems in:
– fused crops: oats, rye, triticale, rice, lentils and rapeseed;
– trench crops: tobacco, cotton, beans, soybeans, chickpeas and sugar beet.
Lecturers:
- Assoc. Prof. PhD Cveta Momchilova Moskova
Winemaking (A)
Specialty „Agronomy“ Degree „Bachelor“, III Type of the course: elective Credits: 4,5 ECTS
Course objectives:
Aim – to acquaint students with the basic technologies, principles and methods applied in the wine industry.
Tasks – in this course are included lectures that students will be acquainted with: wine classification, wine regulations, organoleptic evaluation of wine qualities, with technological requirements for wine-making.
Through the seminars, students will acquire practical skills in grape preparation, cleaning and preparation of wine containers, preparation of yeast, technologies for production and storage the different types of wine.
Course description:
The Course includes lectures that students will be introduced to: wine classification, wine regulations, organoleptic evaluation of wine qualities, with technological requirements for wine-making, wine-making, bottling and storage.
Through the seminars, students will acquire practical skills in grape preparation, cleaning and preparation of wine containers, preparation of yeast, technologies for production and storage the different types of wine.
