Grow the Future of Food and Farming
Where agricultural change, hands-on learning, and community impact come together
Turn your passion for the environment, agriculture, food systems, forests, and community economic development into a meaningful career. The B.S. degree program in Sustainable Development with a concentration in Agroecology and Sustainable Agriculture helps you understand and imagine how healthy farms, resilient forests, and sustainable food systems support people and the planet in Appalachia and beyond.
What You'll Learn
You'll gain a deep understanding of the ecological principles that shape sustainable agriculture while learning practical skills in regenerative farming, resilient gardening, ecological pest management, sustainable forestry, soil health, ecosystem stewardship, natural resources management, and food systems, including policy-making, markets, and community development. Beyond the field, you'll examine how community networks, nonprofit organizations, and governmental agencies help build and sustain thriving food systems.
Learning Beyond the Classroom
Cultivate real-world experiences at Appalachian State’s Blackburn Vannoy Teaching and Research Farm and in the Sustainable Development Civic Garden. Work directly with local farmers, extension educators, nonprofit organizations, and government agencies to tackle production and policy challenges while building practical skills.
Career Pathways
Graduates pursue careers in sustainable agriculture initiatives, organic farming, forestry, agricultural extension, conservation, natural resources management, agricultural policy, nonprofit leadership, and community development in the Appalachian region and around the world.
Become Part of the Solution
The challenges facing our food and agricultural systems require innovative thinkers, skilled practitioners, and leaders who understand the connections between healthy ecosystems, just and sustainable food production, thriving communities, and sustainable livelihoods.
As a student in the Agroecology and Sustainable Agriculture concentration, you'll join a community committed to building more resilient farm and food systems, stewarding our forests for the future, and sustainably managing natural resources. Whether you're interested in farming, conservation, community food systems, agricultural education, or nonprofit leadership, you'll gain the knowledge and hands-on experience to help create positive change.
If you're ready to turn your passion for the land, food, and the environment into meaningful action, the B.S. degree program in Sustainable Development with a concentration in Agroecology and Sustainable Agriculture can help you become part of the solution—locally, nationally, and globally!