The Department shares the agroecology degree program with the Department of Plant Sciences. Students focusing more on the soil science aspects of agroecology are advised through the Department of Ecosystem Science & Management while those focused more on crop production and horticulture are advised through the Department of Plant Sciences.
Agroecology is an interdisciplinary program that uses an ecosystems approach to agriculture that considers an ecological web encompassing the soil environment, agronomic and horticultural plants, and diverse interacting forms of life including microbes, insects, and other animals. Agroecology strives to pull all components of plant based agriculture into a complete picture and to view the agroecosystem as a whole in the context of today's global economy and environment. The bachelor of science degree in agroecology is an innovative and highly practical degree program, and the first of it's kind in the nation.
A B.S. degree in agroecology, the study of agricultural ecosystems, prepares students for various careers in agriculture, natural resources, environmental and life sciences and for advanced graduate studies in specific sub-disciplines within these areas. It is a broad, interdisciplinary, undergraduate curriculum that combines and integrates courses in the plant, soil and insect sciences and is supported by a sound science based curriculum and general education. Students majoring in agroecology retain the option to emphasize a specific discipline and thereby balance the breadth of the curriculum with greater depth in such areas as biology, chemistry, crop science, entomology, environmental studies, natural resource management, soil science, plant pathology, weed science and horticulture. A liberal number of electives permits design of a program that best meets individual career and educational objectives. The agroecology program is well suited for students of urban or rural backgrounds who possess an aptitude for science and interest in agriculture, the environment, life sciences or natural resources.
The agroecology core curriculum is comprised of freshman through senior level courses which, like an ecological web, illustrate dynamic and complex interactions of plants, soils, insects and plant pests (diseases, insect pests, weeds) in the agricultural environment. Academic training is enhanced with experiential learning through research apprenticeships, summer internships and special agroecology capstone courses. Special emphasis is given to development of critical thinking and communication skills, problem solving and practical application of science. It is a richly interdisciplinary program to prepare productive citizens for "real world" situations and life-long learning.
Agroecology B.S. degree recipients are prepared for graduate school and advanced studies or careers with private and public institutions in such areas as: agricultural production or sales, research, product development, education, extension education, international programs, and scientific and technological support; and with professional titles such as: soil scientist, conservationist, entomologist, consultant, plant scientist, integrated pest management specialist, ecologist, research associate or technician, agronomist, biotechnician, and agroecologist.
UW PROGRAM After an introduction to agroecology, you will study in greater detail the components that make up the ecological web of agroecosystems in courses such as:
These courses, together with related course work in the natural sciences, form the foundation for the agroecology curriculum. To build on that foundation, you have a broad choice of advanced classes in the following disciplines:
Weed Science
Agroecology advisers work with you to design an individual program to meet your specific needs and interests. Excellent laboratories and greenhouse facilities, along with industry internships and research apprenticeships, provide practical experience and opportunities for you to learn by doing. Emphasis on communication and interpersonal skills, critical thinking, and problem solving ensures a high demand for agroecology graduates.
Many students in agroecology receive support from a well funded scholarship program. Ample opportunity also exists for part-time employment in research and service laboratories and the greenhouse facility.
As an agroecology graduate, you'll enter an excellent job market in America's largest single industry. Each year more than 10,000 new jobs requiring degrees in agriculture go unfilled. Agroecology prepares you for meaningful and financially rewarding careers at all levels of agriculture including:
You will also find career opportunities in:
A bachelor of science degree in agroecology is excellent preparation for entry into masters or doctoral programs in many fields.
If you have a strong interest in environmental sciences or natural resource management, you may pursue the bachelor of science in agroecology with a special option offered through the School of Environmental and Natural Resources at the University of Wyoming.
FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT:
Department of Plant Sciences
College of Agriculture
University of Wyoming
Dept. 3354
1000 E. University Ave.
Laramie WY 82071
Phone: (307) 766-3103
FAX: (307) 766-5549
E-mail: plantsciences@uwyo.edu
Department of Ecosystem Science & Management
College of Agriculture
University of Wyoming
Dept. 3354
1000 E. University Ave.
Laramie WY 82071
Phone: (307) 766-3114
FAX: (307) 766-6403
E-mail: esm@uwyo.edu
