COURSE CURRICULUM

The Master’s program in Agriculture, Nutrition, and Food Systems is a research-focused graduate degree designed to prepare students for advanced work in agricultural science, food systems, nutrition, and related interdisciplinary fields. The program centers on core academic and research training, beginning with foundational graduate courses such as Introduction to Agriculture, Nutrition, and Food Systems Graduate Studies and a recurring departmental seminar that supports ongoing academic engagement, professional development, and exposure to current research. A major component of the degree is the Master’s Thesis, which requires students to conduct original research under faculty supervision, demonstrating the ability to apply scientific methods, analyze data, and contribute new knowledge to the field. Beyond the core requirements, students must develop competencies in two critical areas: experimental design and analysis, as well as scientific communication. These competencies ensure that graduates are able to design rigorous studies and effectively communicate scientific findings in both written and oral formats. Students select approved courses such as scientific writing, grant writing, or scientific communication to strengthen their ability to present research professionally, while courses in experimental design or sociological research methods help them build strong analytical foundations. In addition, each student, in consultation with their graduate committee, defines specialized areas of interest and selects electives aligned with their research goals, allowing flexibility to tailor the degree toward specific career paths in agriculture, nutrition, policy, or food systems research. The program also emphasizes professional development through seminar presentations, including multiple opportunities to present research findings publicly, as well as expectations for participation in conferences and teaching or mentoring experiences. Students are required to complete a written and oral defense of their research proposal, maintain ongoing academic progress, and participate in annual evaluations that include self-assessment, goal setting, and professional documentation such as a CV and activity narrative. Overall, the degree is structured to develop independent researchers and professionals capable of addressing complex challenges in agriculture and food systems through evidence-based, interdisciplinary approaches.