Introducing the Certificate of Graduate Study in Agroecology at the University of Vermont

We are excited to share with you the new Certificate of Graduate Study in Agroecology (CGSA) at the University of Vermont. Agroecology is an approach that seeks to integrate ecological science with other academic disciplines and knowledge systems to guide research and action towards the sustainable transformation of our current agrifood system. The Certificate of Graduate Study in Agroecology (CGSA) is a 15-credit program that can be completed within one year. The curriculum encourages students to integrate ecological, social, and economic perspectives in developing practical solutions to contemporary problems within our agrifood system. The fully prescribed coursework consists of an introductory residential/online hybrid course, three foundational online classes, and a final synthesis seminar course. Students will join yearly cohorts to build community and expand the network among program participants. The certificate is designed so that you can live in your own food shed while learning lessons that you can apply anywhere.

The Certificate is composed of:

  • One hybrid course, which includes both face-to-face and online delivery
  • Three foundational online courses
  • Final synthesis seminar course

The courses are as follows and descriptions can be found in the UVM 2017-18 Course Catalog

Course 1: Introduction to Agroecology (PSS 311, 3 credits)*

Course 2: The Ecological Foundations of Agroecology (PSS 312, 3 credits)

Course 3: Participatory Action Research (PAR) & Transdisciplinary Approaches to Agroecology (PSS 313, 3 credits)

Course 4: Agroecology, Food Sovereignty, and Social Movements (PSS 314, 3 credits)

Course 5: Capstone Experience (PSS 315, 3 credits)

*Course 1, PSS 311, can be taken for credit or as a non-credit course. Please follow the link above for more information and details on how to register. 

Meet the Team:

 

V. Ernesto Méndez, Ph.D. 
Faculty Director, Agroecology and Livelihoods Collaborative
Areas of Focus: Agroecology, Food Security and Sovereignty, Rural Livelihoods, Agrifood Systems, Political Ecology, Participatory Action Research (PAR),  Environmental Conservation in Agricultural Landscapes

 

 

 

 

Martha Caswell, M.P.P. 
Research and Outreach Coordinator
Areas of Focus: Agroecology, community-based participatory action research, food justice, farmer livelihoods, agroecological approaches to climate change resilience, project design and management.

 

 

 

 

Vic Izzo, Ph.D.
Educational Coordinator and Lecturer
Areas of Focus: Evolutionary Ecology, Entomology, Sustainable Pest Management, Agroecology.

Claire Wiggin
Researcher and Program Coordinator
Areas of Focus: Urban agroecology, food justice, the intersections of gender & agriculture, community-based participatory action research, small-scale organic vegetable production, website & graphic design.

 

 

Questions? Contact us at: agroecol@uvm.edu

Sincerely,

The ALC Team

 

The Agroecology & Livelihoods Collaborative at the University of Vermont   117 Jeffords Hall  63 Carrigan Dr.  Burlington  VT   05405  USA