Online Bachelor of Science in Sustainable Food Systems
Gain a strong foundation in sustainability and sustainable food systems with Arizona State University’s Bachelor of Science in sustainable food systems program online. Using a holistic systems approach, this degree covers the complex connections between food, policy, economic opportunity, natural resources and social equity.
Quick facts
Next start date: 06/29/2023
Total classes: 31
Weeks per class: 7.5
Total credit hours: 120
Degree questions, answered.
Have questions about the Sustainable Food Systems (BS)? Fill out this form and we’ll get in touch!
Why study sustainable food systems
The current food systems landscape is changing. By 2047, the world population will reach its carrying capacity of 9.6 billion people. With farmers representing less than 1% of the American population, the creation and implementation of sustainable ways of growing food is more important than ever.
This online sustainable food systems degree prepares you to understand the current landscape and participate in shaping it from an interdisciplinary perspective. Upon graduation, you’ll be equipped to take on meaningful career opportunities and address the global sustainability crisis with innovative solutions.
As part of the educational mission of the Swette Center for Sustainable Food Systems, this program is offered as a collaboration with the School of Sustainability, College of Health Solutions and Morrison School of Agribusiness.
The skills you'll gain as a sustainable food systems major
Throughout this program, you’ll learn how to assess, analyze and create policies and processes related to food security, sustainable agriculture, climate change, food equity and economic development.
Will my diploma say ‘online’?
No, Arizona State University’s diplomas don’t specify whether you earn your degree online or in person. All diplomas and transcripts simply say “Arizona State University.”
Sustainability and food system courses
The courses in this program were developed by former U.S. Deputy Secretary of Agriculture Kathleen Merrigan. Celebrated by Time Magazine as one of the 100 Most Influential People in the World in 2010 for her impact in the food and agriculture industry, Merrigan designed these courses to provide you with a holistic understanding of sustainable food systems. Throughout your studies, you’ll cover a wide range of subjects, including agriculture, nutrition, policy, planting, production, economics, environmental and societal issues. Courses may include:
SOS 182: Water Planet (SQ)
SOS 326: Sustainable Ecosystems
SOS 220: Systems Thinking
SOS 231: Careers in Sustainability
SOS 111: Sustainable Cities ((HU or SB) & G)
SOS 110: Sustainable World (SB)
SOS 310: Equity, Justice and Sustainability
SOS 311: Future Thinking and Strategies
Sustainable food systems jobs
Upon graduating from this program, you’ll be prepared to take on a variety of potential career opportunities. Depending on your area of focus and interests, career examples may include, but aren’t limited to:
Agricultural Manager
Certified Health Education Specialist (CHES)
Community Health Worker
Environmental Protection Specialist
Food Scientist
General Manager (GM)
Procurement Specialist
Regulatory Affairs Manager
Sustainability Specialist
Learn from national leaders in agriculture and sustainability
ASU’s School of Sustainability recruits faculty from the finest minds and practitioners in sustainability science, business, governance and mission-driven organizations. They cover a vast array of disciplines, such as business and policy, renewable energy and environmental science. Through use-inspired research, our faculty strives to make our world more sustainable.
Learn from national leaders in agriculture and sustainability
ASU’s School of Sustainability recruits faculty from the finest minds and practitioners in sustainability science, business, governance and mission-driven organizations. They cover a vast array of disciplines, such as business and policy, renewable energy and environmental science. Through use-inspired research, our faculty strives to make our world more sustainable.
How to apply
first-year student
You are considered a first-year student for application purposes if you have not attended college at all, or have fewer than 12 transferable credit hours (with a minimum 2.50 cumulative GPA).
Don't meet admission requirements?
You can still gain admission to ASU through Earned Admission. Through this pathway, you can demonstrate your ability to succeed at ASU by completing online courses with a 2.75 GPA or higher.
To begin, submit an application to ASU. An enrollment coach will reach out with more information if the Earned Admission Pathway is right for you.
Don't meet admission requirements?
You can still gain admission to ASU through Earned Admission. Through this pathway, you can demonstrate your ability to succeed at ASU by completing online courses with a 2.75 GPA or higher.
To begin, submit an application to ASU. An enrollment coach will reach out with more information if the Earned Admission Pathway is right for you.
Study food systems at the nation's first School of Sustainability
ASU is a global university recognized for its commitment to innovation, research and high-quality academic programs. Our university has been recognized with peer-reviewed honors from U.S. News & World Report. We’ve also received accolades from other prestigious organizations, showcasing our commitment to excellence across all disciplines.
#1
university in the U.S. in pursuit of United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
#1
“Cool Schools” for sustainability by Sierra Club for campus sustainability.
Top 10
#1
in innovation for 8 consecutive years, ahead of Stanford and MIT.
Tuition calculator
Use our calculator to estimate your full-time or part-time tuition fees for this program prior to any financial aid. Keep in mind that most of our students receive financial aid, which can reduce out-of-pocket costs. Learn more.
Tuition calculator
Use our calculator to estimate your full-time or part-time tuition fees for this program prior to any financial aid. Keep in mind that most of our students receive financial aid, which can reduce out-of-pocket costs. Learn more.
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