Soil and Water

Objectives of the Program

The objective of this program is to develop the capacity for agrarian diagnosis through landscape analysis and interpretation of ongoing changes. It should be noted that the Tipaza province is characterized by significant rural land threatened by construction and roads. Another objective is to enable young graduates to analyze agricultural sectors, considering that Tipaza is known for its history as a pioneering region in greenhouse tomato production, among other local examples that justify this targeted competence. The acquired knowledge includes general agronomic knowledge about the soil-plant-atmosphere continuum and important concepts organizing agricultural activities from the watershed to the farm/plot level (e.g., calculating climate demand, establishing a fertilization schedule, measuring/estimating agronomic yield, etc.).

Targeted Competencies

The targeted profiles are related to water and soil, given that the studied environment is characterized by a Mediterranean climate with a decreasing rainfall gradient in the plains (450mm) and clay-dominant soils, often rich in organic matter and with significant production potential. This program aims to introduce an original aspect through the teaching of mountain agriculture, where the potential for organic production is high (mountain fruits and livestock, inventory and conservation of endangered plant and animal species). The targeted competencies include analysis and diagnosis on one hand, and designing solutions to field issues on the other. For example, how to develop irrigation systems using non-conventional water sources? How to promote peri-urban agriculture near the city of Tipaza in the future?

Regional and National Employment Opportunities

Our training program aligns with the natural potential of the Tipaza province, which is part of the Mitidja Plain where highly dynamic agricultural sectors such as citrus farming, market gardening (tomatoes, potatoes), and mountain beekeeping are emerging. Many professional projects have been initiated by the forestry department, agricultural services, and water resources department. Future graduates can explore various opportunities based on the following projects: irrigation network study and design, implementation of irrigation systems, establishment of fertilization units, irrigation perimeter diagnosis, etc.

Pathways Programs

Related specializations to the Soil and Water specialization include crop production, soil science, and agricultural and rural economics. There are clear pathways to other specializations as long as the taught approach is systemic.

Course Structure