Program Overview
The Agroecology M.S. program at UW–Madison trains students to analyze agricultural systems within a broader environmental and socioeconomic context. The program offers two tracks: Public Practice, which focuses on facilitating discussions and negotiations at the interfaces of agriculture and other sectors of society, and Research, which emphasizes original research and scholarship. Students benefit from interdisciplinary expertise from nearly 20 departments across campus, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of agroecological systems.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
Created in 2007, the Agroecology M.S. program at UW–Madison trains students to research and analyze agricultural systems within a broader environmental and socioeconomic 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.
Program Objectives:
- Analyze tradeoffs of different agricultural systems embedded within the greater complexity of socio-ecological systems.
- Consider and synthesize concepts of systems, ecology, and public process.
- Learn to engage in careful consideration of the social, economic, and environmental outcomes of different industrial and biological processes.
- Understand the potential of inclusive participatory processes in research and analysis of agroecological systems.
- Recognize and apply principles of ethical and professional conduct in their coursework, research, and communications in the field of agroecology.
Outline:
- The Public Practice track trains facilitators to enable broader discussion and negotiation at the interfaces of agriculture and other sectors of society. The goal of this "action-in-society" track is to train analysts to increase understanding about the roles of agricultural systems in multi-functional landscapes, and the public policy that shapes these roles.
- The Research track addresses the need for continued research and scholarship in order that discussions and negotiations are well informed. Students will have the opportunity to obtain experience in the scholarship of original research, culminating in the writing of a thesis.
- Core Curriculum:
- Agroecology Field Study
- The Farm as Socio-Environmental Endeavor
- The Multifunctionality of Agriculture
- Agroecology Seminar
- Cross-Training Electives: Students will select courses to fulfill their cross-training electives in the categories below.
- Ecology
- Social Science
- Data Analysis
- Agricultural Science
- Research and Thesis
Teaching:
The program is supported by the interdisciplinary agroecology cluster, which hired three faculty members in 2002: Michael Bell in community and environmental sociology, Claudio Gratton in entomology, and Randall Jackson in agronomy.
University of Wisconsin–Madison
Overview:
University of Wisconsin–Madison is a public research university located in Madison, Wisconsin. It is known for its strong academic programs, extensive research enterprise, and vibrant campus life. The university is guided by the Wisconsin Idea, a philosophy that emphasizes the importance of using knowledge to improve the lives of people beyond the campus.
Services Offered:
The university offers a wide range of services to students, including:
Academic Support:
Academic advising, tutoring, writing centers, and career services.Student Life:
Student organizations, recreational facilities, cultural events, and health services.Technology:
Access to computer labs, online resources, and software.Housing:
On-campus residence halls and off-campus housing options.Financial Aid:
Scholarships, grants, loans, and work-study programs.Student Life and Campus Experience:
Students at UW–Madison can expect a vibrant and engaging campus experience. The university boasts a diverse student body, a wide range of student organizations, and a lively social scene. The city of Madison offers a variety of cultural attractions, restaurants, and entertainment options.
Key Reasons to Study There:
Strong Academic Programs:
UW–Madison is home to a wide range of academic programs, including highly ranked programs in engineering, business, medicine, and the humanities.Research Opportunities:
The university is a leading research institution, offering students opportunities to participate in groundbreaking research projects.Wisconsin Idea:
The university's commitment to public service provides students with opportunities to make a positive impact on the world.Vibrant Campus Life:
UW–Madison offers a lively and engaging campus experience with a diverse student body, a wide range of student organizations, and a variety of cultural events.Location:
Madison is a beautiful and vibrant city with a strong sense of community.Academic Programs:
UW–Madison offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs across various disciplines, including:
Engineering:
The College of Engineering is highly ranked and offers programs in areas such as computer science, electrical engineering, and mechanical engineering.Business:
The Wisconsin School of Business is known for its strong programs in finance, marketing, and entrepreneurship.Medicine:
The School of Medicine and Public Health is a leading institution in medical research and education.Humanities:
The university offers a wide range of programs in the humanities, including English, history, philosophy, and art history.Other:
Athletics:
UW–Madison is a member of the Big Ten Conference and has a strong athletic tradition.Alumni Network:
The university has a large and active alumni network, providing students with valuable connections after graduation.Sustainability:
UW–Madison is committed to sustainability and has a number of initiatives to reduce its environmental impact.Language Proficiency Requirements:
Every applicant whose native language is not English or whose undergraduate instruction was not in English must provide an English proficiency test score and meet the Graduate School minimum requirements.
