Online Diploma in BioNatural Pest Management

Program Overview

The Diploma in BioNatural Pest Management offers a comprehensive understanding of sustainable, eco-friendly approaches to pest control. The program integrates biological, ecological, and regulatory principles to equip students with the knowledge and practical skills needed for responsible pest management in agriculture, landscaping, and environmental conservation.

Core Curriculum

BPM-100 Pesticide Regulations and Applications (3 credits | 4 weeks)

Course Description:
This course provides an in-depth examination of California’s pesticide laws and regulations, emphasizing compliance with the California Food and Agricultural Code and Title 3 of the California Code of Regulations. Topics include pesticide registration, labeling, restricted materials, certification and licensing, applicator responsibilities, pesticide handler and field worker safety, fumigation protocols, residue management, and environmental protection regulations such as the Endangered Species Act and Healthy Schools Act.

Learning Outcomes:

• Interpret key pesticide laws and regulations.
• Understand licensing and certification requirements for pesticide applicators.
• Implement best practices for safe and effective pesticide application.

BPM-101 Essential Plant Pathology (4 credits | 5 weeks)

Course Description:
This course explores the biological and environmental factors that contribute to plant diseases. Students will learn about biotic and abiotic disease agents, plant-pathogen interactions, mechanisms of disease spread, and the impact of human activities on plant health. Strategies for disease prevention and management, including biological and cultural controls, will also be discussed.

Learning Outcomes:

• Identify common plant pathogens and their life cycles.
• Analyze the environmental factors influencing plant disease development.
• Develop integrated strategies for disease prevention and management.

BPM-102 Pesticides and the Environment (4 credits | 5 weeks)

Course Description:
This course examines the relationship between pesticides, pest management, and environmental sustainability. Students will learn about pesticide classifications, their impact on ecosystems, and human health risks. Topics include pesticide toxicity, personal protective equipment (PPE), calibration of application equipment, emergency response protocols, and label interpretation.

Learning Outcomes:

• Assess the environmental risks associated with pesticide use.
• Implement safe pesticide handling and application techniques.
• Understand emergency response measures for pesticide exposure incidents.

BPM-103 Soil and Plant Health (4 credits | 5 weeks)

Course Description:
This course focuses on the fundamental principles of soil science and plant nutrition. Topics include soil formation, structure, organic matter, nutrient cycling, soil-water relationships, and disease management. Students will also learn to diagnose and address plant nutrient deficiencies and toxicity.

Learning Outcomes:

• Analyze soil composition and its impact on plant health.
• Identify and correct nutrient deficiencies in crops.
• Develop soil health management strategies to enhance agricultural sustainability.

BPM-104 BioNatural Pest Management (5 credits | 6 weeks)

Course Description:
This course provides an in-depth study of BioNatural Pest Management (BNPM), integrating biological pest control methods with sustainable agricultural practices. Topics include:

• Identification and management of insect pests, weeds, and plant diseases.
• Negative effects of pesticide overuse, including biodiversity loss and health risks.
• Use of BioNatural compounds from plants, beneficial microorganisms, minerals, and ocean organisms as biopesticides.
• Principles of Integrated Pest Management (IPM) and their application in diverse agricultural settings.

Learning Outcomes:

• Understand and apply BioNatural Pest Management principles.
• Develop biopesticide-based pest control strategies.
• Assess the effectiveness of biological alternatives to synthetic pesticides.

Additional Online Courses (Separate Tuition Fees Apply)

Introduction to Entomology (4 credits | 5 weeks) – $200

Course Description:
This course introduces students to the study of insect pests and beneficial insects in agriculture. Topics include:

• Classification and identification of insects.
• Biological pest control using beneficial insects.
• Insect orders, life cycles, and behavior in pest management.

Learning Outcomes:

• Differentiate between harmful and beneficial insects.
• Apply entomological knowledge to BioNatural Pest Management.
• Develop biological control strategies using predatory and parasitic insects.

Weed Science (4 credits | 5 weeks) – $200

Course Description:
This course focuses on weed identification, ecology, and control methods. Topics include:

• Classification of weeds and their impact on agriculture.
• Herbicide modes of action and alternative weed control methods.
• Cost-benefit analysis of various weed management strategies.

Learning Outcomes:

• Identify and classify common agricultural weeds.
• Understand the ecological role of weeds in agroecosystems.
• Implement integrated weed management techniques.

Program Notes:

• Each course includes assignments, three exams, and a research paper.
• The BNHC Academic Committee reserves the right to modify the curriculum based on scientific advancements and student needs.

Career Pathways

Graduates of the Diploma in BioNatural Pest Management program can pursue careers in:
✅ Sustainable Agriculture and Organic Farming
✅ Biopesticide Research and Development
✅ Pest Control and Environmental Safety 
✅ Agricultural Extension and Education
✅ Integrated Pest Management (IPM) Implementation