Program Overview

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Overview of the Online Bachelor of Science in Sustainable Food Systems

The Online Bachelor of Science in Sustainable Food Systems is a program offered by Arizona State University. This degree provides a strong foundation in sustainability and sustainable food systems, covering the complex connections between food, policy, economic opportunity, natural resources, and social equity.

Program Details

• The program consists of 31 classes, each lasting 7.5 weeks, and requires a total of 120 credit hours.
• The degree can be completed as part of an Accelerated Master’s program, allowing students to earn a master’s degree in as little as one year after completing their undergraduate degree.
• Applicable master's degrees include the Master of Science in Sustainable Food Systems.

Skills and Knowledge Gained

Throughout this program, students learn how to assess, analyze, and create policies and processes related to food security, sustainable agriculture, climate change, food equity, and economic development. Students also have the opportunity to specialize in a focus area, such as:

• Business and innovation
• Ecosystem services
• Educational leadership
• Global engagement
• Policy and governance
• Procurement
• Public health and nutrition

Sustainable Agriculture

Sustainable agriculture is the process of farming with the most efficient use of nonrenewable and on-farm resources. It enhances environmental quality by protecting the diversity of plants and animals, contributes to local economies, and improves societal quality of life by protecting natural resources and providing safe, healthy food products.

Courses

The program includes a range of courses, such as:

SOS 102: Quantitative Reasoning for Sustainability

Introduces quantitative reasoning as applied to questions encountered in the domain of sustainability science.

SOS 211: Calculus and Probability for the Life and Social Sciences

Introduces probability and calculus, used to study natural and social phenomena.

SOS 212: Systems, Dynamics and Sustainability

Introduces the evaluation and construction of mathematical models used in the life and social sciences.

SOS 110: Building a Sustainable World

Lays the groundwork for understanding the fundamental geological, biological, and social processes that maintain the world's viability.

SOS 111: Sustainable Cities

Introduces technological, social, and cultural principles and innovations for cities under the notion of sustainability.

SOS 220: Systems Thinking

Introduces systems thinking and complexity science, with an emphasis on analytical relevance for thinking about sustainability issues.

SOS 310: Equity, Justice and Sustainability

Introduces the "social justice" aspects of sustainability science and practice.

SOS 311: Future Thinking and Strategies

Offers a critical introduction to future-oriented theories and methods.

Career Opportunities

Upon graduating, students are prepared to take on a variety of potential career opportunities, including:

• Agricultural Manager
• Certified Health Education Specialist (CHES)
• Community Health Worker
• Environmental Protection Specialist
• Food Scientist
• General Manager (GM)
• Procurement Specialist
• Regulatory Affairs Manager
• Sustainability Specialist

Admission Requirements

To be admitted to ASU, students must hold a high school diploma or equivalent and have completed at least 14 of the following courses:

• Four years of math
• Four years of English (non-ESL/ELL courses)
• Three years of lab sciences
• Two years of social sciences
• Two years of the same second language
• One year of fine arts or career and technical education Applicants must meet at least one of the following:
• Top 25% in their high school graduating class
• 3.00 GPA in competency courses
• ACT score of 22 for Arizona residents (24 nonresidents) or SAT Reasoning score of 1120 for Arizona residents (1180 nonresidents)

Tuition and Fees

Students can estimate their full-time or part-time tuition fees using the university's calculator. Most students receive financial aid, which can reduce out-of-pocket costs.

Accreditation and Rankings

ASU is a global university recognized for its commitment to innovation, research, and high-quality academic programs. The university has been recognized with peer-reviewed honors from U.S. News & World Report and receives accolades from other prestigious organizations. ASU is ranked:

• #1 university in the U.S. in pursuit of United Nations Sustainable Development Goals
• #1 “Cool Schools” for sustainability by Sierra Club for campus sustainability
• #1 in the U.S. for innovation for 11 consecutive years, ahead of Stanford and MIT
• Top 10 best online bachelor’s programs

Conclusion

The Online Bachelor of Science in Sustainable Food Systems at Arizona State University provides students with a comprehensive education in sustainability and sustainable food systems. With a range of courses and specializations, students can gain the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in a variety of career opportunities. The program is designed to prepare students to address the global sustainability crisis with innovative solutions.