College of the Atlantic's approach to food systems engages students in examining the many social, cultural, political, ecological, and economic implications of the ways our food is perceived, produced, and consumed. From rural development to the politics of globalization, from land conservation to local food systems and social justice, students use interdisciplinary perspectives to understand, critique, and work to improve global and local food systems.

Professors in a range of disciplines including politics, botany, anthropology, business and chemistry contribute classes and expertise to the curriculum. Students can explore the global politics of agricultural biotechnology, the state of the Mayan milpa on Mexico's Yucatan Peninsula, the history, policy and culture of the fishing industry, or how to start your own food business. In addition to studying food systems, students also gain hands-on experience in small-scale farming at our own Beech Hill Farm with its six acres of organic vegetable production. Classes in organic gardening, botany, chemistry and ecology provide a scientific foundation for understanding agricultural production.

COA's Transatlantic Partnership with the University of Kassel in Germany and the UK's Organic Research Centre, established in 2008 through the generous support of the Partridge Foundation, offers numerous internship, research and graduate study opportunities for students, and brings international expertise to COA courses. In addition, our international study programs in Latin America, including Mexico's Yucatan Peninsula, offer opportunities to study agro-ecology and food systems in the tropics.

A focus on Sustainable Food Systems facilitates development of skills that are useful to students who choose to work in fields such as food and agriculture policy, community development, public health, land conservation, community food security, global and local activism, agriculture education, food service, food business and small-scale farming.

Sustainable Food Systems Partnerships

Transatlantic Partnership with the University of Kassel in Germany and the UK's Organic Research Centre

Healthy Acadia

Maine Organic Farmers and Gardeners Association (MOFGA)

Maine Farmland Trust

Maine Coast Heritage Trust

New England Farmers Union