Program Overview

Program Overview

The Agroecology B.A. program provides students with interdisciplinary knowledge, skills, and expertise related to agroecology and sustainable food systems. Students learn about ecological concepts, including soil and water processes, microbial ecology, plant physiological ecology, aquaculture, ecological interactions, and ecosystem services, that can be applied to the development of sustainable agricultural systems. These concepts are contextualized in the social, political, and economic aspects of agriculture, including traditional agriculture, agricultural policy and development, social theory, history, sustainable farm management, markets, food justice, local food system experiences, and harvested food systems.

Learning Outcomes

• Social science competency: Analyze the problems faced in agriculture and food systems by identifying the societal (historical, social, political, economic, cultural, and ethical) agents and structures that contribute to environmental change.
• Natural science competency: Describe the structure and functioning of major physical and ecological components of Earth’s systems, including agricultural systems.
• Analytical thinking: Access and assess complex literature, and review specific topics in agroecology and sustainable food systems, and evaluate the usefulness and limitations of individual methods.
• Communication skills: Demonstrate effective oral and written communication skills.
• Production skills: Demonstrate an introductory level of competence in horticulture, agronomy, or aquaculture.