Agroecology

The Agroecology M.S. Program at UW-Madison, created in 2007, trains students to research and engage with agricultural systems in a broader environmental and socio-economic context. Key to this endeavor is interdisciplinary expertise, which the Agroecology Program achieves through working with affiliated faculty members from nearly 20 departments across campus.

The combination of focused project work and interdisciplinary coursework is the greatest strength of the program.  Every student works closely with faculty on an individual project that results in a thesis or final project directed toward a scientific publication or a professional deliverable.  Meanwhile, our core curriculum brings together all students working across the disciplines to analyze food and agricultural systems from biophysical, social, and economic perspectives.  Our core courses have small enrollment (10-20 students) and high levels of interaction among students and between students and faculty.  A typical cohort consists of 8-10 incoming students.

The Agroecology Program offers a Master of Science degree with two tracks that differ in coursework requirements and the nature of the final project – the Research Track and the Public Practice Track.  Alumni of both tracks have had professional success in the public and private agricultural sectors, including positions in research, outreach, education, and project management.

Please contact the Graduate Coordinator, Caitlin Collies, if you are interested in applying or would like more information about the program.