Students earning a master’s in sustainable food systems will develop an understanding of today’s health, agriculture and environmental policymaking processes. You’ll study the interconnected factors of food policy. You’ll also learn how natural resource conservation ensures healthy agricultural, food and environmental systems. Graduates of the food systems master’s program will have knowledge of how American agriculture affects and is affected by global food trends and policies.
There are two required week-long immersive experiences. The first is in Arizona. You’ll engage with and learn from farmers, ranchers and supply chain businesses about how food and agriculture policies and programs impact their operations. The second is a seminar in Washington, D.C. You’ll gain knowledge of leadership theories, develop leadership skills and engage in conversation with influential food policy leaders from a variety of sectors. |
These courses are intended as guidelines. Speak to your guidance counsellor to see what courses are offered at your school.
Applicants are eligible to apply if they have earned a bachelor's or master's degree from a regionally accredited institution. Desired candidates will have experience working in a field related to food and agriculture.
Applicants must have at least a 3.00 cumulative GPA (scale is 4.00 = "A") in the last 60 semester hours of a student's first bachelor's degree program. Or applicants must have at least a 3.00 cumulative GPA (scale is 4.00 = "A") in an applicable master's degree program.
If applicants have a lower GPA, they may address it in their statement of intent. They should describe contributing circumstances through their personal experiences. The admission committee will consider these applicants for admission.
The admission committee will consider lower GPAs for provisional admission. Provisional admission applies to applicants with desirable work experience and/or good reasons why their GPA was low. If provisional, the student must maintain a B or better in the first semester of the program.
All applicants must submit:
Graduate admission application and application fee.
Official transcripts.
Personal statement.
Up-to-date curriculum vitae or resume.
Two letters of recommendation.
All candidates must provide a statement of intent that should not exceed 600 words. The statement should answer the three questions below.
What key research questions do you wish to address and/or what problems do you wish to solve as part of your plan of study?
How will your background contribute to your success in the program? |
| Additional Admission Requirements: | Ideal applicants are active professionals in the food and agriculture industry. Students hail from private companies of all sizes, government agencies, university agriculture extensions, philanthropies, nonprofits and trade associations. Farmers and ranchers interested in the future of sustainable food policy would also find value in this program.
International applicants will need to meet ASU’s English proficiency requirements. Additionally, applicants should have the equivalent of a TOEFL Score of 100 or greater to meet course prerequisite requirements for the program. |
* We make every attempt to provide accurate information on prerequisites, programs, and tuition. However, this information is subject to change without notice and we highly recommend that you contact the school to confirm important information before applying.