Program Overview
Trent University's Small-Scale Farming Specialization offers a hands-on, sustainable agriculture education. Students cultivate skills in farming practices, marketing, distribution, and food preparation. Through experiential learning at the Trent Farm and collaborations with experts, they gain real-world experience and build a network in the agricultural sector. This program prepares graduates for various careers in organic farming, food policy, agricultural research, and more.
Program Outline
Small-Scale Farming Specialization at Trent University
Degree Overview:
This specialization focuses on sustainable and regenerative farming practices. Students gain hands-on experience in farming, marketing, distribution, and food preparation. They will learn directly from experts in the field and build their network in the agricultural sector.
Outline:
- Program Content:
- Emphasizes sustainable and regenerative farming practices.
- Offers real-world learning experiences in various aspects of small-scale farming.
- Provides over 240 hours of hands-on farming experience through an intensive field course.
- Program Structure:
- Students must complete a single- or joint-major Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science degree in Sustainable Agriculture & Food Systems.
- Students must successfully complete 5.0 credits of specific courses within the specialization:
- SAFS-BIOL-ERSC 2350H: Ecological Agriculture
- SAFS 2800H: Sustainable Farm Business Management
- SAFS 3801H: Intensive Summer/Fall Field Course
- SAFS-CAST-ERST-SOCI 3341H: The Canadian Food System: Community Perspectives and Experiences
- SAFS-BIOL 3530H: Crop Physiology
- SAFS 4003D: Research and Placement in Sustainable Agriculture and Food Systems
- SAFS 4101H: Agroecological Learning and Practice
- Course Schedule:
- The intensive field course is offered during the summer and fall semesters.
- Other courses may be offered during various semesters.
- Individual Modules:
Teaching:
- Teaching Methods:
- Students gain practical experience through hands-on learning activities on the Trent Farm.
- The program emphasizes real-world learning with experts in the field.
- Faculty:
- Students learn from leading experts and thought leaders in the field of agriculture.
- Unique Approaches:
- The intensive field course provides students with extensive hands-on experience.
- Students have access to several on-campus food and farming resources, including the Trent Farm, Market Garden, Vegetable Garden, Apiary, First Peoples House of Learning Medicine Garden, and the Seasoned Spoon.
Careers:
- Career Opportunities:
- Organic Farmer
- Land Use Consultant
- Agricultural Research Assistant
- Urban Agricultural Coordinator
- Food Policy Analyst
- Community Food Activist
- Nutrition & Food Industry Specialist
- Agro-Tourism Business Operator
Other:
- Student Engagement:
- Students can participate in the Sustainable Agriculture and Food Systems Society, Trent Apiary, or Food Services Sustainability Committee.
- The program utilizes the Trent Farm, which is described as the most extensive in the area.
- Students can gain hands-on experience with various aspects of farming, including field preparation, soil and nutrient management, seeding, pest management, irrigation techniques, harvest, and post-harvest practices.
Trent University
Overview:
Trent University is a public university located in Peterborough and Durham, Ontario, Canada. It is recognized as Ontario's top undergraduate university, known for its personalized learning experience and commitment to fostering global citizens. Trent University offers a transformative learning environment that prepares students for leadership and career success.
Services Offered:
Student Life and Campus Experience:
Trent University offers a vibrant campus life with a strong sense of community. Students have access to a wide range of opportunities to get involved, gain career experience, and make lifelong connections. The university boasts picturesque natural environments at both its Peterborough and Durham campuses, providing a unique and engaging learning experience.
Key Reasons to Study There:
Top-ranked undergraduate university in Ontario:
Trent University consistently ranks highly for its overall reputation and academic excellence.High graduate employment rate:
95% of Trent graduates are employed within two years of graduation.Personalized learning experience:
The university emphasizes small class sizes and close faculty-student relationships, fostering a supportive and engaging learning environment.Strong focus on global citizenship:
Trent University prepares students to be responsible and engaged citizens of the world, equipped to address global challenges.Academic Programs:
Trent University offers over 100 academic programs across various disciplines. The university is particularly known for its strengths in the following areas:
Environmental Studies:
Trent University is a leader in environmental research and education, with a strong focus on sustainability and conservation.Social Sciences and Humanities:
The university offers a wide range of programs in areas such as history, political science, psychology, and sociology.Arts and Culture:
Trent University has a strong arts and culture scene, with a vibrant theatre program, music ensembles, and visual arts studios.Other:
Trent University also offers online learning options, allowing students to access over 100 courses year-round. The university is committed to inclusivity and diversity, with initiatives such as the installation of an ablution station for the Muslim community on campus.
Entry Requirements:
- Ontario Secondary School Requirements:
- Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD)
- A minimum of six Grade 12 4U or 4M courses, including program specific prerequisites
- Program Requirements:
- A minimum 70% overall final average
- ENG 4U with a minimum of 60%
- SBI4U for B.Sc.
