Master of Science in Sustainable Agriculture (MSSA)

Core Courses (12 units)

MSSA 500: Foundations of Sustainable Agriculture (3 units)
This course provides a rigorous exploration of the principles, theories, and practices underpinning sustainable agriculture. It examines the historical evolution of farming systems, ecological interactions in crop and livestock production, and contemporary strategies for environmental stewardship. Emphasis is placed on integrating soil, water, and biodiversity management into holistic production systems that enhance resilience, productivity, and sustainability. Students critically evaluate case studies of successful sustainable farming models and are trained to apply ecological and agroecological concepts to real-world agricultural challenges.

MSSA 501: Research Methods and Data Analysis in Agriculture (3 units)
A comprehensive study of research design, methodological frameworks, and quantitative and qualitative data analysis as applied to agricultural science. The course addresses experimental and observational research, participatory action research, and mixed-method approaches. Emphasis is placed on sampling design, statistical inference, interpretation of agronomic data, and the use of software tools for data management and analysis. Students develop the skills necessary to design, implement, and critically evaluate research projects that contribute to sustainable agricultural innovation and evidence-based decision-making.

MSSA 502: Agroecology and Natural Resource Management (3 units)
This course investigates the ecological foundations of agricultural production systems with emphasis on sustainable management of natural resources. Students study soil-plant-animal interactions, nutrient cycling, agro-biodiversity, and ecosystem services. The course examines strategies for soil conservation, integrated pest and nutrient management, and water resource optimization. Through case studies and field applications, students are trained to design farming systems that maintain productivity while conserving ecosystems and supporting long-term sustainability.

MSSA 503: Agricultural Communication and ICT for Extension (3 units)
This course emphasizes the development of communication strategies and the use of information and communication technologies (ICT) in agricultural extension and farmer education. Students learn principles of adult learning, knowledge transfer, and participatory communication. The course addresses digital tools, online platforms, social media, and data visualization techniques for effective dissemination of agricultural innovations. Students are prepared to design extension programs that enhance adoption of sustainable practices and strengthen farmer engagement.

Specialization Courses (18 units)

MSSA 601: Climate-Smart Agriculture and Resilient Farming Systems (3 units)
An advanced exploration of agricultural strategies for adaptation and mitigation in the context of climate variability. Students study climate-resilient cropping systems, water-saving techniques, agroforestry, and risk management approaches. Emphasis is placed on integrating scientific principles with local knowledge to develop resilient, productive, and environmentally sustainable farming systems. The course prepares students to plan, implement, and evaluate adaptation interventions that support both farm productivity and ecosystem health.

MSSA 602: Sustainable Crop Production and Soil Health (3 units)
This course provides an in-depth analysis of crop production systems emphasizing sustainability, soil fertility management, and integrated pest management. Topics include crop rotation, cover cropping, organic amendments, soil microbiology, and nutrient optimization strategies. Students critically examine approaches that maintain soil health, improve yields, and reduce environmental degradation, while applying modern agronomic principles to diverse cropping systems.

MSSA 603: Sustainable Livestock and Integrated Farming Systems (3 units)
A comprehensive study of sustainable livestock production and its integration with crop systems. Students explore feeding strategies, pasture management, animal welfare, and environmental considerations in livestock farming. The course emphasizes nutrient recycling, synergistic crop-livestock interactions, and integrated farming designs that enhance resource use efficiency and reduce ecological footprints.

MSSA 604: Agri-Business and Value Chain Management (3 units)
This course addresses the economic and managerial dimensions of sustainable agriculture. Students examine market dynamics, supply chain optimization, agribusiness models, and financial planning. Emphasis is placed on value addition, entrepreneurship, and the development of sustainable business strategies that improve farmer livelihoods while promoting responsible resource use. Case studies provide practical insights into scaling sustainable agriculture innovations within competitive and constrained markets.

MSSA 605: Innovation and Technology Transfer in Sustainable Agriculture (3 units)
Students study the processes and strategies for developing, adapting, and disseminating innovative agricultural technologies. The course focuses on participatory approaches, stakeholder engagement, adoption of precision agriculture tools, and the use of ICT for knowledge transfer. Students are trained to facilitate technology uptake in rural communities, enhance productivity, and support sustainable development objectives.

MSSA 606: Agricultural Policy, Governance, and Rural Development Strategies (3 units)
This course provides a critical examination of national and international policies affecting agriculture, natural resource management, and rural development. Topics include policy formulation, governance mechanisms, sustainability standards, and program evaluation. Students analyze policy impacts on rural livelihoods and agricultural practices and develop recommendations for interventions that promote food security, equitable development, and environmentally responsible farming.

Thesis Requirement (6 units)

MSSA 698/699: Master’s Thesis in Sustainable Agriculture (6 units)
The thesis represents the culmination of the student’s academic program. Under faculty supervision, students undertake original research addressing a significant problem in sustainable agriculture or rural development. The thesis process includes the development of a research proposal, comprehensive literature review, methodological design, fieldwork or data collection, analysis, and presentation of findings. The final manuscript must demonstrate academic rigor, contribute novel insights to the discipline, and provide practical implications for sustainable agricultural practice, policy, or innovation. Students defend their work in a formal oral examination.