Program Snapshot
Next Start DateRolling Admissions | How OftenEvery Semester | Application | Learning FormatOnline |
VA Benefit EligibleYes | Duration1 Year | Time Commitment6-8 hours/week | CredentialCertificate of Graduate Study of Agroecology |
Overview
Find Solutions to Societal Issues Through the Lens of Our Food Systems
Rooted in “Participatory Action Research” (PAR), our program guides students to identify key questions and practice new methods for integrating data from multiple perspectives (farmers, academics, activists, policymakers, etc.). This is used to both better understand agrifood system issues, as well as search for solutions that show real promise to help resolve issues on the ground.
The fully prescribed coursework consists of four semester-long courses including the Transformative Agroecology course (ALE 6110), three foundational classes (ALE 6120, ALE 6130, ALE 6140); and a final online capstone course, designed for the application of newly developed knowledge and skills in a culminating experience/project that addresses an agroecological topic relevant to the individual student.
What Sets UVM Apart
Be Part of a Food Systems RevolutionVermont is a hub for food systems work and UVM is a trusted partner that provides pioneering research and thought-leadership. | Access Leading AcademiaBased within the Agriculture, Landscape, and Ecology Department at UVM and connected to the UVM Institute for Agroecology, the program provides students access to UVM’s academic ecosystem and people. | Learn OnlineThe full and micro certificates are an online, partially synchronous learning opportunity. |
In this program, you will:
- Learn from examples of agroecology from around the world to draw lessons learned and to find inspiration.
- Learn directly from agroecology researchers and actionists working actively on in local, national and international contexts
- Explore and develop your own practice as an agent of change.
- Integrate ecological, social, political and economic perspectives while investigating contemporary problems in our agrifood system
- Live in your own foodshed while learning lessons you can apply anywhere
- Connect theory to practice as part of a diverse and inclusive learning community
- Gain the knowledge you need to help farmers and communities realize the multiple benefits of agroecology, ensure better livelihood for farmers, and reverse the trends of climate crisis, biodiversity loss, inequity and hunger.
Admissions
Who is this program for?
- Graduate Students
- Activists, Practitioners, and Professionals seeking advanced learning in agroecology for graduate credit
- We believe that we learn best from a diversity of sources and a diversity of voices – online participation means you can join us from almost anywhere
Application process information here
Please note: all courses will be taught at a graduate level, with approximately 6-8 hours of work per week for each course.
Curriculum
What courses are required for the Full Certificate in Agroecology?
- Transformative Agroecology (ALE 6110)
- Ecological Foundations of Agroecology (ALE 6120)
- Participatory Action Research and Transdisciplinary Agroecology (ALE 6130)
- Agroecology, Food Sovereignity & Social Movements (ALE 6140)
- Agroecology Capstone (ALE 6150)
Instructors
Who will teach the courses?
