Bachelor's Degree in Sustainable Agriculture and Community Food Systems
OVERVIEW
Who is this program for?
A bachelor's degree in Sustainable Agriculture and Community Food Systems is ideal for students passionate about environmentally conscious farming practices, food security, and building resilient local food networks. This program prepares graduates for careers in sustainable farming, food policy, agricultural consulting, or community-based food organizations, equipping them with the skills to promote environmentally friendly agriculture and address food access and sustainability issues at local, regional, and global levels.
Program Overview
The world needs ambitious change-makers to maximize and maintain global food production in an ethical, effective manner. Hungry for change? From farm to fork, you’ll grow to understand the complex social and scientific factors that influence food systems worldwide. Ultimately, you will use this knowledge to impact non-profit, human service, and agricultural industries around the world. In this interdisciplinary program, you will explore the three pillars of Sustainable Agriculture: environmental stewardship economic profitability social responsibility Students will customize their degree by choosing from two tracks: Farming Systems: students focus on sustainable production methods and biophysical systems with courses in animal science, plant science, entomology and more. Community Food Systems: focus on issues related to food systems including food security and hunger issues with courses in nutrition, global issues, policies and more. Hands-On Experience Our program emphasizes experiential opportunities to give students practical, real-world skills. Students are required to complete an apprenticeship with the UK CSA farm where they learn to grow, harvest, and distribute organic vegetables. On the outskirts of Lexington, we own and operate a horticulture research farm where students and professors produce a variety of fruits and vegetables for research and consumption. It is also home to our nonprofit Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) project that provides organic produce to the Lexington community. As our student, this is just one of the many hands-on learning opportunities you’ll have. Come learn more about this program, campus life, and chat with an advisor, schedule a campus visit. Virtual visits may be necessary in some cases.
Related Careers
The Sustainable Agriculture and Community Food Systems degree will prepare you for opportunities in conservation, agriculture, and business in addition to a variety of job opportunities in Extension and the non-profit sector.
• Agronomist
• Apiarist
• Conservation specialist
• Distillation Sciences
• Educator
• Entrepreneur
• Extension agent
• Farm manager
• Non-profit management
• Research scientist
Admission Requirements
- Official High School Transcript with Pre-College Curriculum: View transcript requirements on the Undergraduate Admission webpage.
- Test Scores (optional): ACT or SAT scores can be submitted but are not required for university admission.
Any "Program Specific Requirements" that display below are specific to the program and will be required for admission to the program.
Application Requirements
Completed applications include an official high school transcript, application fee ($50 domestic/$60 international) and optional official ACT/SAT score (the University of Kentucky is test-optional for admission and scholarships through the 2028-29 academic year).
Application Deadlines
Freshman
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Early Action
- 12/01/2025 Apply early to be considered for Lewis Honors College, scholarships, or on-campus living.
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Regular Decision
- 02/15/2026
Transfer
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Fall Scholarship
- 06/15/2025 Apply early to be considered for scholarships.
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Fall
- 08/01/2025
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Spring
- 11/15/2025
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Summer
- 04/15/2026
FIND OUT EXACTLY
What You'll Learn
Degree requirements, course descriptions and academic policies for all programs are detailed in the University Catalog.
Get a Head Start with an
Accelerated Pathway
This program is part of the Accelerated Master's Pathways program. If you plan to obtain a related master's degree, this program can save you time and money with dual credit hours when you sign up.
Attend an Upcoming Event for this Program
These events are designed to answer your questions and give you a glimpse into what it’s like to be a part of our program.
Register NowI want to use food to build connection points for people to fix things in their communities.
Hannah Magney
Sustainable Ag Student
Explore Financial Aid Options
Undergraduate degree-seeking students have access to a variety of financial aid options, including scholarships, grants, work-study programs, and student loans, designed to make education more affordable.
Get Involved!
Students who get involved in activities outside of the classroom tend to do better academically and develop meaningful relationships with others at UK. Our network of student organizations and activities has something for everyone, from academic to professional to fun!
Join the Martin-Gatton CAFE Living Learning Program
Live in a community full of others who share your interests in agriculture, food and environment! Community members also gain access to specialized programs that foster relationships, professional growth, and community.
Get More Information
Complete the form to get the latest updates on this program, including special events and application deadlines.
Discover your Future
At the University of Kentucky, we provide personalized support, innovative resources, and countless opportunities to help you turn your aspirations into achievements.
