Undergraduates
Agroecology & Sustainable Food Systems Major
Students can choose from career-focused pathways, including:
Agroecology Research and Production
- Sustainable crop production
- Soil and environmental science
- Agricultural research
- Graduate school preparation
- Food access and food justice
- Community development
- Local and regional food systems
Urban Horticulture
- Urban agriculture
- Green infrastructure
- Sustainable landscape and food production systems
Agroecology Minor
Agroecology instruction provides students with a fundamental understanding of agriculture and its interaction with natural and social systems. Students selecting the Agroecology minor will gain an understanding of modern production agriculture from an ecological and sociological perspective, obtain new skills in analyzing agricultural systems, and gain the knowledge to design a plan for change.
| Required Courses | ||
| PB/AEC 360 | Ecology | 4 |
| CS 230 | Introduction to Agroecology | 3 |
| CS 430 | Advanced Agroecology | 4 |
| Elective Courses | ||
| Select one course from at least two of the groups | 6 | |
Courses
CS 230 Introduction to Agroecology (3 credit hours)
This course will examine the biological and physical attributes of farming systems and their associated ecological and social impacts in temperate and tropical regions. It will address the ecological consequences of indigenous food and fiber production systems, conventional agricultural systems and “alternative” systems that incorporate biological pest control and natural nutrient inputs. Students will examine several case studies that integrate their understanding of concepts.
Prerequisite: BIO 105 or BIO 181 or BIO/ZO 160 or BO 200 or BO 250 or HS 201 or CS 213
GEP Global Knowledge, GEP Interdisciplinary Perspectives
Typically offered in Fall and Spring
CS 430/CS 530 Advanced Agroecology (4 credit hours)
This course applies agroecological principles and critical thinking to evaluate various agroecosystems. Students will examine food, fiber, and other commodity production systems for security, productivity, and sustainability and address the simultaneous need to protect natural environments and the biodiversity on which agroecosystems depend. Topics include discussion of national and international government policies, research programs, and education programs that influence the future application of agroecosystem principles.
Prerequisite: CS 230
Typically offered in Spring only
Agroecology Club
The Agroecology Club at North Carolina State University is dedicated to building a close community within the club, University, and local surrounding areas, that care deeply about agroecology and its values involving sustainable food systems. We are also passionate about education and providing service to the University and local community in the field of agroecology.
Join the Club
NCSU undergraduates from all majors are welcome!
When? Biweekly at 6:30 pm
Where? Every other meeting will be on campus (2125 Williams Hall) or at the Agroecology Education Farm. Reminders with the location are sent out via email, if you would like to be added please email [email protected]
Dues: $15/ semester or $30/year, cash or Venmo
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Questions or comments? Send us an email: [email protected]