Organic Education: The Role of the University System

In response to growing student interest over the last decade, an increasing number of public and private colleges and universities have established courses, certificates, and degree programs in sustainable and organic agriculture.  These programs employ a multitude of strategies to link the practical training needs of organic practitioners with the academic component, including the incorporation of working organic student farms, internship programs, community service elements, and coursework.  Over the past decade, organic-related courses often have seen high enrollment from  students across broad majors and colleges; this trend continues to be observed as food and sustainability issues remain in the forefront of the public consciousness.   Student Organic Farms have played an important role in bringing students together around the topic of practical training in organic production. The management and funding of student farms varies widely among institutions, as does the degree to which the farm is integrated within the organic curriculum.  Balancing the multiple goals of the farm with respect to student learning and participation remains a challenge in these endeavors.