Program description
Agroecology specializes in the management and conservation of our natural and agricultural resources. Agroecologists develop environmentally friendly weed, insect and disease controls and also help farmers conserve their land and protect Canada’s wildlife and water supply.
The Bachelor of Science (Agroecology) is the ideal program for students with a passion for our planet. Students will learn the biological and physical components of ecosystems, and how to achieve economically sustainable agricultural production while conserving resources and maintaining the integrity of our ecosystems.
Program options
Degree options
B. Sc. Bachelor of Science (Agroecology) - 4 years
Minor options
- Animal Systems
- Entomology
- Food Science
- Plant Biotechnology
- Soil Science
- Programs in other faculties
Interesting courses and unique opportunities
Interesting courses
- Community Ecology
- Urban Agriculture
- Organic Crop Production
The Cooperative Education option integrates the student’s academic study with practical work experience in industry, government and the farming profession. To obtain the co-op designation, you must complete three 4-month work terms. Two of these can be during the summer. This program option will extend your degree time by one semester (slightly longer if a student takes more work terms in winter).
Exchange and travel opportunities
Exchange opportunities exist for agriculture students to study abroad in countries such as Sweden, Mexico, France, the U.S., China and India.
Professional opportunities
- Environmental Policy Analyst
- Soil Conservationist
- Wildlife Manager
- Environmental Consultant
The graduates are prepared for a wide variety of careers in industry, government and non-government organizations.
Degrees in Agroecology are very common in the U.S. and Europe, and are becoming more widely known in Canada. Employers now recognize a B.Sc. in Agroecology as an invaluable asset.
Admission requirements & prerequisites
Direct entry option
- Manitoba high school graduation with five full credits at the Grade 12 level, in courses designated S, G, or U.
- A minimum 85% average over the following, with no less than 60% in each course:
- English 40S
- Pre-Calculus Math 40S or Applied Math 40S
- Chemistry 40S, Physics 40S, Biology 40S, or Computer Science 40S
Advanced entry option
24 credit hours in U1 (or approved Bachelors program)
This entry option is open to students who have completed a minimum of 24 credit hours of university level study. Specific program requirements will vary; details of these requirements are available on each program’s application page.
High school prerequisites
High school prerequisites: Pre-Calculus Math 40S (min. 60%) or Applied Math (min. 70%), Biology 40S, Chemistry 40S are required
Many programs will require or recommend specific high school courses over and above their admission requirements. These high school prerequisites are not always required to enter the program, but they must be completed to enrol in certain university courses within it. If a student does not have a particular prerequisite when they enter the program, they may complete an equivalent upgrading course at university that will satisfy the prerequisite requirement.
More details on admission requirements, application dates and how to apply is available on the Faculty of Agricultural and Food Sciences apply for admission page.
What is unique about this program at the U of M?
Environmental issues have never been more important; from rising fuel costs to endangered wildlife, from weather disasters to global warming the need for professionals in this area is inevitable .
In their final year, Agroecology students complete a major research project, where they can choose their own subject. Students may choose to complete a laboratory study, field collection analysis and interpretation, or a review of policy and regulation. The project not only sets this degree apart, but it provides students with a completed report to show prospective employers.
Agroecology students at the University of Manitoba also benefit from the university’s ties with the National Centre for Livestock and the Environment, home to the longest-running organic farm trial in Western Canada.
Important links
Faculty of Agricultural and Food Sciences
Agroecology website
Graduate studies options
