Bachelor of Science in Agroecology

The Department of Plant Sciences offers a Bachelor of Science degree in Agroecology jointly with the Department of Ecosystem Science and Management, and three minors. Minors offered by Plant Sciences include Agroecology, Horticulture, and Plant Protection. The minor in horticulture includes courses in landscape design, plant materials and their propagation, organic food production, turfgrass science, and greenhouse design and management. The minor in Plant Protection includes courses in agronomy, plant genetics, plant pathology, and weed science. These minors allow students within many bachelors programs to obtain an added emphasis in areas that enjoy strong employment opportunities. The Bachelor of Science degree program in agroecology is an interdepartmental major involving faculty in the Departments of Plant Sciences and Ecosystem Science and Management. An agroecology minor is also available. The goal of Agroecology is to promote the adoption of more sustainable agricultural practices in the United States and abroad. The program is intended to provide students with the following knowledge and skills: Writing, oral communication, and math skills sufficient for success as an agricultural professional or for admission to graduate study to a related graduate degree program. Sufficient knowledge of physics, chemistry, geology, cell biology, physiology, genetics, evolution, and ecology for participation in modern agriculture. Practical knowledge and skills that include using computer technology for writing and analyzing data, using geographical information systems, conducting chemical and biological analyses of soil and water, diagnosing plant health problems, identifying plants and insects, and the general practice of horticulture and agronomy.