Take our intro course, Agroecology 103: An Introduction to the Ecology of Food and Agriculture fall 2025.
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Why study agroecology?
Agroecology works to make our food systems more sustainable. Agroecology addresses the economic, ecological, and social outcomes of food systems. We value and use traditional ecological knowledge, social and environmental justice, and holistic perspectives in pursuit of food systems that care for all.
Agroecology explores how the configuration, composition, and management of agricultural landscapes affects farming communities, ecological interactions, and economic outcomes. Our research often is place-based, collaborating with farmers, policymakers, and communities. We aim to improve food access, nutrition, and health.
We need more people who understand the complexities of food systems and agroecology helps address this need.
Careers in agroecology
A few areas agroecology majors may work in include:
- Agroecological policy, research, engagement, and education
- Land, farm, and/or garden management
- Local, national, and/or international agricultural industry (e.g., plant and animal breeding, farm landscape design, supply chain logistics, producer-led watershed groups)
- Governmental agencies (e.g., County Land & Water agencies, state departments of agriculture and natural resources, USDA-NRCS, USEPA)
- Non-governmental organizations (e.g., The Nature Conservancy, Clean Water Alliance, American Farmland Trust, Michael Fields Agricultural Institute, Savanna Institute, The Land Institute)
Here are a few Madison-area sustainability, food, and/or agriculture organizations often hiring or recruiting interns:
- Aldo Leopold Nature Center Internships
- Allen Centennial Garden Internships
- Corporate Sustainability Internship Program – Nelson Institute and Office of Sustainability
- Office of Sustainability Student Intern Program
- Olbrich Botanical Gardens
- The People’s Farm – Students for Sustainable Agriculture
- REAP Food Group
- Slow Food UW
- UW-Madison Arboretum
- CALS Career Services
- Handshake
- Morgridge Center for Public Service – volunteer opportunities
- Nelson Institute job board
- UW Student Job Center – “Agriculture and Natural Resources” or “STEM” job categories
Advising
Attend a virtual or in-person event to learn more about what UW-Madison has to offer. You can learn about upcoming events here: https://apps.admissions.wisc.edu/visitbucky/. Specific events that might be of interest are: College of Agricultural and Life Sciences (CALS) Information Sessions, Admissions Information Session AND Campus Tour, Transfer Visit Day and University Housing Tour.
Disability-related accommodations can be requested within the registration for each event. Please register and submit at least two weeks prior to an in-person event or three business days prior to a virtual event.
Kathryn Jones, Academic Advising Manager
Email: kjones26@wisc.edu
Phone: 608-807-7391