Ecological Agriculture

The Ecological Agriculture Specialization provides a holistic understanding of how agro-ecosystems work, combining science and innovation with a respect for natural systems and biodiversity. You will learn all about the relationships between soils, water, plants, insects, animals, humans and other components of agro-ecosystems. 

This specialization is where agriculture and ecology/environment interact. Ecological agriculture addresses both the practical and theoretical issues that arise from this interaction, including ecosystem dynamics and the role of agriculture in rural and urban landscapes. This specialization strives to view agro-ecosystems in the context of today's global economy, social systems and environment. You will learn how ecological concepts and principles can be applied to the design and management of sustainable agro-ecosystems. 

Through coursework, field trips, practical labs, and internship opportunities, you will learn about agriculture's environmental and social contexts and how to develop workable solutions to sustainable food production challenges. 

If taken as a specialization, it must be combined with a major in the BSc(AgEnvSc). The recommended major is Agro-Environmental Sciences

• Canadian citizenship or Canadian permanent residency
• 23 years of age or older by the start of classes (21 years of age for the Faculties of Management and Music)
• No high school, college or university level studies within the last five years that would constitute a basis for admission
• Two letters of reference
• Mature Student Statements:
  • Letter of Intent, including description of all educational experiences
  • Complete resume of employment and other activities, highlighting points relevant to the application
• In some cases, an interview may be required
• Demonstrate academic potential by successfully completing a minimum number of specific courses (see 'Minimum grades & prerequisites' below) within the three-year period prior to admission and no later than May 15th of the year of application for the intended program (May 1 for some programs). These courses, which may be completed at CEGEP or university, will also fulfill prerequisites for the intended program. 

This program will provide you with crucial knowledge in ecological and environmental sciences along with hands-on skills that will help you to thrive in positions within government, private industry, or academic research. 

You could become a professional: 

• Urban Agriculture Coordinator
• International Agricultural Developer
• Agronomic Specialist
• Researcher
• Farm Manager

1. Know your deadlines.

   Mark your calendar with these important dates regarding your application. 

2. Decide what to study.

   Use the program finder tool to explore over 300 undergraduate programs and find your best match. 

3. Make sure you're eligible.

   Admission to most programs is based on grades only. In this step, you'll find:
   • How your academic record is reviewed
   • The grades that gained entrance to your program in previous years
   • The prerequisites for your program

4. Get ready to apply.

   As of October 1, you can apply. Complete each step of the pre-application to-do list, including:

   • Understand the deadlines that apply to you
   • Prepare your academic documents
   • Identify supporting documents you'll need to provide

5. Submit your application.

   Review our tips on how to apply and see what the application fees will be. Remember that you can apply to two programs.

6. Apply for an entrance scholarship.

   Look into entrance scholarships early! The deadline is usually a week after your application deadline. This page provides information about entrance scholarships, bursaries, and other funding opportunities.

7. Submit documents and keep in touch.

   We'll connect with you by email to let you know when to upload supporting documents, if required. In this step, you'll see:
   • How to follow your applications status
   • Supporting documents you may need to prepare
   • How to submit supporting documents, including self-reporting your grades