Bachelor of Science in Agriculture - Agroecology Major

Agroecology is the interdisciplinary study of how agricultural production of plants and animals affects and is affected by the local environment. Agroecology emphasizes sustainable and environmentally friendly approaches to agricultural production. The agroecology major combines concepts of crop production with those of environmental protection to develop a balance between production and environmental issues. This major provides students the opportunity to specialize in ecological/sustainable aspects of crop production. Potential areas of employment include: farm and environmental consulting, organic farms, parks, lawn care and maintenance companies, agricultural supply companies, cooperative extension, and state and federal government support agencies. Major Learning Goals Agroecology is the study of relationships among organisms and habitats in agricultural ecosystems. Climate and soil properties, activities of other organisms, and management practices affect the growth and development of plants and animals, the composition of products from them, and other processes that sustain human life and the functioning of other ecosystems. Agroecology extends from organisms to landscapes and connects with economic, political, social, and cultural aspects of food and agricultural systems and their impacts on the biosphere. Principles of agroecology can be applied to the design and management of sustainable systems that meet human needs and provide other ecosystem services while minimizing their ecological footprint. Upon completion of the major students should be able to: Develop and implement sustainable agricultural production plans and systems. Diagnose and solve applied production problems in ways that minimize adverse local, regional and global impacts. Develop and communicate recommendations to address environmental, economic, and production outcomes in agriculture. Characterize and solve soil potential and plant health problems. Careers Crop or farm management specialist Agribusiness Cooperative extension Farm and environmental consultant