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Sustainable Food Systems ,Minor

Sustainable Food Systems, Minor


Agriculture, Community, Environment, Farm, Health, Nutrition, Supply Chain, Sustainability, systems, urban

Food is a critical part of daily life. In this minor, you will explore topics like sustainable agriculture, improving access to quality food, the impact food has on health and how policies impact these systems. The tools you master will enable you to drive sustainable, positive changes to local and global food systems.

Description

Food and sustainability are becoming increasingly relevant issues to employers in fields across the public and private sectors. Food systems can be complex and particularly vulnerable to multiple threats. This minor in sustainable food systems allows students to gain a general understanding of these complex systems and lays the groundwork for them to create positive change.

In two required courses, students learn the fundamentals of sustainable food systems and what shapes a sustainable plate. Students also have the opportunity to take food systems electives from diverse academic units that are also addressing challenges to food system sustainability. It encourages students to cover a breadth of topics and perspectives related to food system issues such as sustainable agriculture, food justice and sovereignty, agriculture policy and governance, agribusiness, food systems leadership and food culture.

Students completing the minor will have a strong orientation toward problem-solving and systems thinking and will demonstrate proficiency in critical, analytical and creative thinking by developing, communicating and applying practical solutions to food sustainability challenges. Students also will be able to assess and analyze the role of culture and society in shaping food systems.

At a glance
Program requirements

Students must complete 18 credit hours (12 of which must be upper division) of the specified courses with a grade of "C" (2.00) or better in each course. At least 12 credit hours must be taken at ASU.
Required Courses -- 6 credit hours
Tier 1: Culture and Ethics (Choose two) -- 6 credit hours
Tier 2: Science and Society (Choose two) -- 6 credit hours
Prerequisite courses may be needed in order to complete the requirements of this minor.

Enrollment requirements

GPA Requirement: 2.00

Incompatible Majors: BS in sustainable food systems

Other Enrollment Requirements: None

Current ASU undergraduate students may pursue a minor and have it recognized on their ASU transcript at graduation. Minor requirements appear on the degree audit once the minor is added. Certain major and minor combinations may be deemed inappropriate by the college or department of either the major program or the minor. Courses taken for the minor may not count toward both the major and minor.

Attend online
ASU Online

ASU offers this program in an online format with multiple enrollment sessions throughout the year. Applicants may view the program’s ASU Online page for program descriptions and to request more information.

Global opportunities
Global experience

With more than 300 Global Education program opportunities available to them, students of all majors, including programs in the College of Global Futures, are able to tailor their experience to their specific interests and skill sets. Whether in a foreign country, in the U.S., or online, students build communication skills, learn to adapt and persevere, and are exposed to research and internships across the world, increasing their professional network

Students can find programs specific to their interests on the College of Global Futures Study Abroad webpage and additional opportunities and information on the ASU Global Education Office website. These sites also include additional information about applying for funding to support global travel.

Career opportunities

A minor in sustainable food systems complements a variety of bachelor's degrees, expanding career opportunities related to food in sectors such as business, engineering, technology, science, nutrition, education and government.

Knowledge of sustainable food systems is applicable across diverse career paths, including agriculture, public health, community development and policy advocacy. Graduates with this minor become catalysts for positive change, fostering equity and sustainability in various fields. Whether it's promoting urban farming initiatives, enhancing consumer goods or shaping public health policies, their expertise stands out among job applicants.

By incorporating sustainable food systems into their education, students not only broaden their career horizons but also contribute to a more sustainable, equitable and healthier future. This minor equips graduates with invaluable skill sets that are relevant and impactful in many career contexts.

Contact information

School of Sustainability | WCPH 4th floor
cgfadvising@asu.edu
480-727-6963

What are accelerated programs?
Accelerated programs allow students the opportunity to expedite the completion of their degree.

3 year programs

These programs allow students to fast-track their studies after admission and earn a bachelor's degree in three years or fewer while participating in the same high-quality educational experience of a 4-year option. Students should talk to their academic advisor to get started.

Accelerated master's

These programs allow students to accelerate their studies to earn a bachelor's plus a master's degree in as few as five years (for some programs).

Each program has requirements students must meet to be eligible for consideration. Acceptance to the graduate program requires a separate application. Students typically receive approval to pursue the accelerated master’s during the junior year of their bachelor's degree program. Interested students can learn about eligibility requirements and how to apply.
What are concurrent programs?
Concurrent degrees allow students to pursue their own personal or professional interests, earn two distinct degrees and receive two diplomas. To add a concurrent degree to your existing degree, work with your academic advisor.
What are joint programs?
Joint programs, or jointly conferred degrees, are offered by more than one college and provide opportunities for students to take advantage of the academic strengths of two academic units. Upon graduation, students are awarded one degree and one diploma conferred by two colleges.

What constitutes a new program?
ASU adds new programs to Degree Search frequently. Come back often and look for the “New Programs” option.
What are online programs?
ASU Online offers programs in an entirely online format with multiple enrollment sessions throughout the year. See https://asuonline.asu.edu/ for more information.
What is the Western Undergraduate Exchange (WUE)?
The Western Undergraduate Exchange (WUE) is a program in which residents of western states (other than Arizona) may be eligible for reduced nonresident tuition. See more information and eligibility requirements on the Western Undergraduate Exchange (WUE) program.

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