Discover our Agriculture and Food Systems Bachelor of Science program, offering a flexible curriculum focused on modern sustainable agricultural practices and food systems management.

Introduction

In today’s rapidly evolving world, the need for sustainable agricultural practices and efficient food systems has never been more critical. The Sustainable Agricultural Education provided by the Agriculture and Food Systems B.S. program at the University of New Hampshire (UNH) equips students with the knowledge and skills necessary to address the pressing challenges in agriculture and food production. Whether you’re passionate about farming, research, or agricultural management, this program offers a comprehensive pathway to a rewarding career.

About the Agriculture and Food Systems B.S. Program

The Agriculture and Food Systems (AFS) major at UNH is designed to offer a unique, interdisciplinary experience that blends biology, ecology, economics, and social sciences. This approach ensures that graduates are well-prepared to meet society’s food and fiber needs sustainably.

Curriculum and Emphasis Areas

The AFS B.S. program emphasizes systems thinking, allowing students to tailor their education to specific interests within sustainable agriculture. Students can choose from emphasis areas such as:

Agroecology: Focuses on ecological principles applied to agricultural systems.
Horticulture: Covers the cultivation of plants for food, medicinal purposes, and aesthetic value.
Animal Agriculture: Explores sustainable livestock management and dairy practices.
Agricultural Policy and Entrepreneurship: Prepares students for roles in policymaking and business management within the agricultural sector.

With 128 credits required for graduation, the curriculum includes foundation courses, a student-designed emphasis area, electives, and a capstone experience. This structure ensures a broad-based education while allowing for specialized knowledge in chosen fields.

Hands-On Learning and Research Opportunities

UNH prides itself on providing extensive hands-on learning experiences. Students gain practical skills through:

State-of-the-Art Research Facilities: Access to dairy farms, greenhouses, and a brewing science lab.
Experiential Courses: Manage and care for animals, engage in crop production, and participate in food production field experiences.
Undergraduate Research: Collaborate with faculty on impactful research projects, such as reducing nitrogen pollution in dairy farming or evaluating sustainable crop cultivars.

These opportunities not only enhance learning but also prepare students for real-world applications in sustainable agriculture.

Why Choose Sustainable Agricultural Education?

Addressing Global Challenges

Sustainable agricultural education is pivotal in addressing two critical global challenges:

Chronic Diseases: Unhealthy diets and lack of physical activity contribute to the rise in non-communicable diseases. Sustainable food systems promote healthy eating through the production of nutritious and environmentally friendly foods.
Food Security and Environmental Impact: Traditional farming practices often lead to soil degradation and loss of biodiversity. Sustainable agriculture focuses on regenerative practices that enhance soil health, conserve water, and maintain ecosystem balance.

By pursuing this education, students become part of the solution, ensuring food production meets the needs of a growing population while preserving natural resources for future generations.

Career Prospects

Graduates of the AFS program are well-equipped for diverse career paths, including:

Agricultural Business Management and Entrepreneurship: Launch and manage agricultural enterprises with a focus on sustainability.
Agricultural Research: Conduct studies to improve crop yields, animal health, and sustainable practices.
Policy Making: Develop and implement policies that support sustainable food systems and agricultural practices.
Education and Outreach: Educate communities and stakeholders about sustainable agriculture and nutrition.

The program’s comprehensive education ensures that graduates can thrive in various roles within the agricultural and food sectors.

Industry Connections and Innovations

Collaborations with Leaders like Bayer

The AFS program aligns with industry leaders such as Bayer, which is committed to leveraging life sciences to develop innovative health and agricultural solutions. Bayer’s initiatives in sustainable agriculture, including regenerative practices and biotechnology, complement the educational experiences at UNH. By collaborating with companies like Bayer, students gain insights into cutting-edge technologies and industry best practices, enhancing their readiness for professional roles.

Leveraging Modern Technologies

The integration of digital health platforms and biotechnology in the program mirrors the advancements in the agricultural sector. Students learn to utilize data analytics, digital management systems, and biotechnological tools to optimize agricultural practices. This technological proficiency ensures that graduates are prepared to implement innovative solutions that promote sustainability and efficiency in food production.

Success Stories from the Program

Student Achievements

The AFS program boasts numerous success stories, highlighting the impact of sustainable agricultural education:

Ella Henzel-Cronin ‘25: Conducted research on reducing nitrogen pollution in dairy farming, contributing to more sustainable livestock practices.
Olivia Camara ‘24: Combined her passions for agriculture and photography to focus on sustainable dairy management, preparing for a successful career in the dairy industry.
Rachel Dubanoski ’15: Transitioned from engineering to pursue sustainable agriculture, now serving as an assistant farm manager and applying her knowledge to real-world farming practices.

Alumni Impact

Graduates of the program have gone on to make significant contributions in various fields, from managing agricultural businesses to influencing policy and conducting vital agricultural research. Their success underscores the effectiveness of the program in preparing students for impactful careers.

Conclusion

The Agriculture and Food Systems B.S. program at UNH offers a robust and flexible education in sustainable agricultural practices and food systems management. By combining interdisciplinary coursework with extensive hands-on experiences and industry collaborations, the program ensures that graduates are well-prepared to tackle the global challenges of food security and environmental sustainability.

Call to Action

Embark on a journey towards a sustainable future in agriculture and food systems. Explore the Agriculture and Food Systems B.S. Program and discover how you can make a difference in the world. For more information on innovative health and agricultural solutions, visit Bayer.