Our environmental science degree program in food systems and sustainable agriculture answers the growing call to evaluate and redesign our food and farming systems. This program prepares students to develop innovative, sustainable food production and distribution approaches that protect the environment and improve access to healthy food. Students learn in the classroom and through hands-on projects in the community, developing the skills to make a difference for people and the natural world.

CURRICULUM

Students studying Food Systems & Sustainable Agriculture build upon a solid foundation of environmental science, gain experience in designing and managing agricultural ecosystems, develop quantitative skills in evaluating ecosystem processes and services, and practice making management and policy recommendations based on available data.

Electives

Suggested Sequence of Courses

The below sequence of courses is meant to be used as a suggested path for completing coursework. An individual student’s completion of requirements depends on course offerings in a given term as well as the start term for a major or graduate study. Students should consult their advisor for assistance with course selection.

School of Environmental Sustainability Graduation Requirements

All SES students are required to complete a foreign language requirement and a writing intensive requirement. The SES language requirement can be fulfilled by 1) earning college credit at the 102-level or above; or 2) demonstrating proficiency via the SES foreign language proficiency examination. The SES writing intensive requirement is fulfilled by successfully completing two Loyola WI courses (max of one per semester). Writing intensive courses have a “W” in the section number. 

Additional Undergraduate Graduation Requirements

All Undergraduate students are required to complete the University Core, at least one Engaged Learning course, and UNIV 101.  SCPS students are not required to take UNIV 101.  Nursing students in the Accelerated BSN program are not required to take core or UNIV 101.  You can find more information in the University Requirements area.

LEARNING OUTCOMES

• Explain the components of food systems and their complex interactions across spatial and temporal scales.
• Articulate the physical, psychological, cultural, and spiritual significance of food to individual and community wellbeing.
• Using multiple methods of analysis, evaluate the environmental and equity impacts of different food system practices to reveal points of leverage for social-ecological change.
• Engage knowledge, skills, and values through experiences that advance sustainability, resilience, and justice within food systems.

SES Shared Learning Outcomes

All SES majors share the following Program Learning Objectives, in addition to their unique major-specific Program Learning Objectives:

1. Articulate the foundational principles of natural and social sciences and humanities essential to solving environmental problems.

2. Critically evaluate the accuracy and credibility of information relating to environmental topics.

3. Employ knowledge and skills to design and implement solutions that contribute to a just and sustainable world.

4. Exemplify the values of environmental and social justice through actions to care for our common home and one another.