Agroecology

A holistic approach to the science of sustainable agriculture!

Ready to grow your future? Agroecology could be for you! You may be wondering, "What is agroecology?" Agroecology is an interdisciplinary study of the ecology of the entire food system encompassing ecological, economic, and social dimensions. It's a comprehensive approach to agriculture that considers crop production and yield, along with the sustainability of the ecosystem and community to address food system challenges. Southwestern is the only institution in Oregon with an Agroecology program, making it unique and innovative.

Whether you’re looking to enter the workforce or are already in the farming industry, Southwestern has both degree and certificate pathways for you to learn applied skills... no prerequisites required! In our two-year degree program, students gain a broad understanding of the various aspects of ecology and agriculture, with the health and well-being of local populations and the workforce. For students just looking to take a few classes and gain some credentials, Southwestern offers various certificates to help develop skills for working in the wide filed of agriculture.

Be part of a program that not only educates, but actively contributes to the region's sustainable future. Connect with local farmers/ranchers, watershed councils, landscapers, turf managers and employers creating pathways to practical, field-based employment.

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Degrees & Certificates

Specific overview, class descriptions and courses you’ll take for this degree.

Agroecology Degrees & Certificates

Grow gardens, build soil and connect with community with a holistic approach to agriculture encompassing ecological, economic and social dimensions.

- Agroecology, Associate of Applied Science
- Agroecology One Year Certificate

GROW YOUR FUTURE

Hands-on careers in various industries

Practical, field-based training

Contribute to a sustainable future

MEET OUR GRADUATES

Agroecology Graduate

Irelyn Gibbs

For Irelyn Gibbs, Southwestern felt like the right place from her very first visit. “The first thing that I loved about Southwestern was how nature is integrated into the campus infrastructure,” she says. “On the first tour I took, I saw deer, the lake, and other wildlife, which was really cool.” As someone who loves the outdoors and wanted to study plants and natural ecosystems, the setting was a natural fit.

Coming from Albany, Oregon, Irelyn chose Southwestern specifically for its Agroecology program, along with student housing and the opportunity to continue playing soccer. Through the program, she built her knowledge of plants, habitat restoration, native species, and biodiversity.

The experience also changed what Ireland saw as possible for her future. “Originally I wasn’t planning to continue my education after getting my associate’s, but my instructor, Maria, made me realize I had a lot of potential to continue my education, and that I could be successful at a bigger university.”

Now, Irelyn is transferring to Oregon State University to pursue a bachelor’s degree in horticulture. She hopes to eventually work in a nursery or greenhouse growing native plants and use what she’s learned to help create healthier ecosystems. “I’m really passionate about plants, so I want to gain as much experience as I can.”

MEET OUR PARTNERS

Valley Flora Farm

“The Agroecology degree program at Southwestern is a remarkable asset to our community. There are very few programs like it in the country. We’re excited about the positive impact it’s having on local agriculture and food systems.”
–Zoë Bradbury DeSurra, Founder and Co-owner

Pacific Power Foundation

image of man smiling at camera with garden in background

“The Pacific Power Foundation is honored to support the new Agroecology program and the opportunities it will provide to students. The program aligns well with the foundation’s mission to support the growth and vitality of the communities that we serve.””
–Sam Carter, Regional Business Manager

POSSIBLE AGROECOLOGY CAREERS

Agronomist
Culinary Manager – Farm-to-Table
Ecological Restoration Technician
Entrepreneur
Farm Manager
Landscaping Entrepreneur
Rancher
Turf Manager
Watershed Technician

…and more!

MEET YOUR INSTRUCTOR

Assistant Professor of Agroecology

Maria Farinacci

You’ll find Maria Farinacci in the garden. She’s working hard to continue to grow Southwestern’s Instructional Garden for another cohort of Agroecology students. Maria, Assistant Professor of Agroecology, teaches courses such as Gardening the South Coast, Fungal Ecology, Plant Biology and others in the Agroecology and Natural Resources programs.

Maria is a graduate of Ohio University with a Bachelor’s of Science in Plant Biology, with a focus on soil science and a minor in Anthropology. Since graduating college, Maria has been working in various fields related to natural resources, working on farms and ranches, watersheds and fish research, and teaching community mycology and mushroom cultivation courses.

Maria has been living in Coos Bay since 2016 – up the Coos River with her husband, two dogs, and one cat. She enjoys surfing, learning about wild flora, fauna, funga, and (of course) gardening. She enjoys collaborating with community partners with the Agroecology program, connecting with local growers, and sharing the joys of ecology and growing food with others.