3 ECTS credits
75 h study time
Offer 1 with catalog number 4023854ENR for all students in the 1st semester at a (E) Master - advanced level.
Agricultural and food systems are closely linked to ecological, social and ethical issues. In this course, students are introduced to agroecology as a science, practice, and social movement. Students learn the basic principles of applying a systems approach to designing and studying agricultural systems and food production chains. The course covers the food system as a whole, from care of the soil, to the design of agricultural systems, to the organization of societies. It explains how agro-ecosystems that imitate nature in form and function can provide food and many other needs, while addressing the climate, biodiversity and nutrient crisis.
Study material:
• Powerpoint slides of the lectures (available on CANVAS)
• Relevant scientific articles and opinion pieces (available via CANVAS).
The student:
Understands the fundamental aspects of sustainable agriculture, agroecosystem management and sustainable food systems.
Understands structure and function of complex agroecosystems.
Understands some of the most important methods in agroecology, such as agroforestry, food forests, permaculture, alley cropping, sylvopasture …
Is able to explain why agroecological methods are beneficial for the climate, biodiversity and nutrient crisis.
Is able to identify the main perennial plants that are used in agroforestry.
The final grade is composed based on the following categories:
Other Exam determines 100% of the final mark.
Within the Other Exam category, the following assignments need to be completed:
The exam score will be determined by a formative oral presentation with discussion during the HOC (1/4) and a written exam (3/4).
This offer is part of the following study plans:
Master of Bioengineering Sciences: Cell and Gene Biotechnology: Medical Biotechnology (only offered in Dutch)
Master of Bioengineering Sciences: Cell and Gene Biotechnology: Agrobiotechnology (only offered in Dutch)
Master of Bioengineering Sciences: Cell and Gene Biotechnology: Synthetic Biotechnology (only offered in Dutch)
Master of Bioengineering Sciences: Chemistry and Bioprocess Technology: Food Biotechnology (only offered in Dutch)
Master of Bioengineering Sciences: Chemistry and Bioprocess Technology: Sustainable Chemical Biotechnology (only offered in Dutch)
Master of Bioengineering Sciences: Chemistry and Bioprocess Technology: Micro- and Nanobiotechnology (only offered in Dutch)
Master of Biology: Ecology and Biodiversity (only offered in Dutch)
Master of Biology: Ecology and Biodiversity
Master of Biology: AR Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degree in Tropical Biodiversity and Ecosystems