Agroecology

Today, agriculture is a technology intensive industry requiring individuals who understand the ecological concepts underlying the production of food and fiber as well as the technologies required to improve our food producing capability while protecting our environment and natural resources. The Agroecology major can help provide a strong conceptual framework of knowledge in plant and ecosystem sciences together with highly developed information management and integrative problem-solving skills built around real world situations. Activities which promote communication and team building skills will be emphasized. Students will work with a team of faculty from the four departments supporting the major; Departments of Crop and Soil Sciences, Entomology, Horticulture, and Plant Pathology.

There are two options in the major: Integrated Crop Management (ICM) and Plant Science. Education in the ICM option emphasizes the principles of plant and soil management and the basic sciences upon which these principles are based. Business management skills can be developed by appropriate course selection in the ICM option. The Plant Science option requires additional emphasis in the basic sciences (math, chemistry, physics, and biotechnology).

The Agroecology major requires two internships. The internships should be completed prior to the seventh semester in order to complete the major by the end of the eighth semester.

Why Major in Agroecology?
The introduction of precision ag technologies, biotechnology, and increased environmental awareness has created a demand for individuals with a broad based education and who can work as a team member to collect and use information to solve complex problems. The demand is expected to grow with the increased development and adoption of these technologies, society's continued concern for the environment and the growing need for the production of high quality food to meet society's needs.

Career Opportunities for Agroecology Majors
Students in the Agroecology major obtain a broad-based experience which prepares them for many employment opportunities in agriculture and related areas. The following are examples of career opportunities for graduates in Agroecology:

• agronomic and horticultural crop specialists with local, national, and international businesses and organizations,
• sales and marketing careers for seed and other agricultural supply industries,
• environmental and regulatory organizations which monitor best management practices,
• educational organizations such as cooperative extension, and
• positions in the management and operation of agronomic and horticultural crop production farms.

Graduates of the major may choose to enter graduate programs in agronomy, entomology, horticulture, plant pathology, or other plant science areas.

For additional information about this Agroecology, contact

    Dr. Paul Backman
    221 Buckhout Lab
    University Park, PA 16802

    Phone: 814-865-6687
    Email: pab24@psu.edu

Or visit the Agroecology Web site:
http://agroecology.psu.edu/