Agroecology Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences

Overview

The Agroecology programme from Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences offers a head start for students who seek to work with development or research for agriculture. 

Farming and food production are ecologically, economically and socially important in all societies. Worldwide there is a need for academic experts that can deal with land use systems that are complex, multifunctional and rapidly changing. This programme investigates the social, economic and environmental barriers and opportunities for small scale and sustainable agricultural production. Some examples of subjects are: agronomy in a systems ecology perspective; farm production integrated with nature conservation and production of ecosystem services; the sociology of farming and agriculture. 

The programme is based on learning through experience, which means that the complexity of real life situations is the starting-point for study activities.  The programme uses real-life case material, for students to test and practice their ongoing acquired knowledge and skills. 

The programme contains theoretical bases and methodologies for agroecological and interdisciplinary analyses needed to contribute to sustainable development of livelihoods based on local renewable resources. The programme emphasises the relationship between biological resources and human societies. 

The programme has an international focus based upon educational partnership between SLU and universities in Ethiopia and Uganda. Diverse cultural backgrounds and academic experiences among students are both encouraged and regarded as constructive for the overall training process.

UN's sustainable development goals in the education

SLU's educations creates knowledge which contributes to the goals for sustainable development, both in Sweden and internationally. 

Future

A master's degree with a major in Agricultural Science provides the opportunity to work with development projects, national as well as international. Other possible jobs can be exercise of authority, counseling, teaching and consulting assignments. Employers may be authorities, nonprofit organizations (NGOs), educational organizations and consulting business. These studies can also provide opportunities for post graduate studies.