Online Ecological Agricultural Systems Degree :: Accredited Universities

The Bachelor of Ecological Agricultural Systems explores the connection between social, ecological and business skills and knowledge to produce graduates well suited to a wide range of roles.

CSU's Bachelor of Ecological Agricultural Systems places an emphasis on people and their perceptions and how these impact on the natural world. The course takes natural and social ecology as its foundation stone and develops applied scientific and management approaches to working with people and nature.

The course is structured around four foundational principles:

ecological thinking
ecological ethics
ecological literacy
ecological practice

Entry Requirements

To be admitted into the course, prospective students need to indicate their likelihood of success through: previous studies, and other attainments and experience.

Other Fees

Overseas examination fees ($100/course)

Textbooks

Student Services and Amenities Fee (Max. $281/year)

Incidental unit costs

Notes

Practical component requires students to visit and talk with farmers.

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In today’s world of complex food and agriculture systems, we need leaders. Our Master of Science in Sustainable Food Systems program prepares future leaders in the burgeoning food movement with a graduate level interdisciplinary understanding of sustainable agricultural production, and a deep knowledge of the economic, ecological, and social forces driving food systems.

At Green Mountain College, we’ve been teaching about sustainability for over fifteen years. Our distance MSFS program -- built on the success of the College’s undergraduate major in sustainable agriculture and on the surging interest in food and agriculture in the U.S. and beyond -- is fully accredited by the New England Association of Schools & Colleges (NEASC), and is designed to provide students with the skills to conduct in-depth interdisciplinary investigations into the complex arena of their own bioregional food systems. Our MSFS students graduate with the knowledge and confidence to become leaders and join a cutting-edge community ready to make a difference.

The Masters of Science in Sustainable Food Systems is the first distance learning program of its kind in the country. We recognize that people working in changing food systems tend to be rooted in place, and the MSFS program allows students to remain committed to their communities and professions. Not only do students explore their own bioregional foodsheds, but they also contrast their findings with students from other parts of the U.S. and abroad, enhancing their understanding of food system dynamics and leverage points for change.

Here is what makes Green Mountain College’s MSFS program so unique:

Low-Residency Requirements Reduces Travel Time and Expense

Leading Faculty

College is Recognized for Environmental Leadership

Student Variety

Proven Online Learning System and Small Classes Facilitate Learning

Entry Requirements

Admission to the MSFS program is based on a review of the following:

All undergraduate and graduate level transcripts. A bachelor's degree in a relevant field is preferred. Most entering graduate students will have completed a bachelor's degree in food and nutrition, agriculture, business & marketing, environmental studies, food studies, policy, or other related discipline. (GPA of at least 3.0 is preferred).

Current résumé or curriculum vita.

Three letters of reference.

A personal essay answering the following questions: (1) Why the prospective student wants to pursue an MS in Sustainable Food Systems; (2) How the advanced degree aligns with career goals; (3) How the student will manage completing personal, professional, and academic priorities during his/her advanced course of study.

Evidence of two or more years of work experience in the field of study is preferred. We do not accept students directly from undergraduate programs unless there are significant extenuating circumstances.

GRE or GMAT scores (not required).

Other Fees

Notes

One residency period is required in each of two years.

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This professional doctorate involves one-third coursework comprising the Master of Sustainable Agriculture and two-thirds research dissertations. Students' research will be supervised by leading researchers from the University and be applied in nature.

The Doctorate of Sustainable Agriculture aims to increase the capacity of the students to develop their own philosophical and ethical views on sustainable agriculture.
Students will learn to collaborate with others in learning, undertake cooperative project work with farmers and others in the rural sector, and integrate their studies in ecologically-sustainable agricultural production systems, business management, self-management and social behaviour.

Students graduate with enhanced analytical and creative thinking skills through the application of their learning to real world issues and become autonomous or self-directed learners who are competent in research areas relating to their choice of study.

Entry Requirements

Applicants wishing to enrol directly into the Doctor of Sustainable Agriculture must have completed an Honours degree, Class 1 or Class 2 (Division 1), a Master degree with Credit average, or Master of Philosophy, and have at least three years relevant professional experience.

Students who complete the Master of Sustainable Agriculture with a Credit average are eligible to apply to progress to the Doctor of Sustainable Agriculture.

Intending applicants should contact the Sub-Dean, Graduate Studies to discuss the proposal before submitting the prescribed application form. In addition, applicants must complete a form describing their area of interest, which should accompany their application. Please phone info.csu on 1800 334 733 or email inquiry@csu.edu.au for the contact details of the appropriate person.

Admission to candidature is subject to approval by the Board of Graduate Studies.

Other Fees

Overseas examination fees ($100/course)

Textbooks

Student Services and Amenities Fee (Max. $281/year)

Incidental unit costs

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