Welcome to the UC System-wide Agroecology Field Quarter
Course Overview
The Agroecology Field Quarter Summer 2026 is a full-time, 7-week residential and traveling course running from July 6th to August 21st. Open to students from UC campuses and beyond, the program accommodates up to 20 participants and offers a unique blend of faculty instruction and experiential learning, with emphasis on site visits and immersive fieldwork experiences.
Key Features Include
- Field Study: Engage in hands-on learning on organic farms and community-based projects.
- Collaborative Learning: Work closely with a cohort of peers, professionals, and mentors.
- Site Visits: Explore academic institutions, farmers, and organizations leading agroecology research and extension efforts in the Central Coast, Central Valley, and San Francisco Bay Area.
- Site Visits: Learn directly from farmers and community leaders.
- Workshops: Participate in engaging, practical sessions on agroecology practices.
- Networking: Build lasting relationships with professionals and peers.
Courses Offered
Participants will enroll in three UC Santa Cruz Summer Session classes and a lab, earning a total of 17 academic units through the Environmental Studies Department:
- ENVS 133C: Agroecology Practicum (5 Units)
- ENVS 130A: Agroecology and Sustainable Agriculture (5 Units)
- ENVS 130L: Agroecology and Sustainable Agriculture Laboratory (2 Units)
- ENVS 130C: Field Experiences in Agroecology and Sustainable Food (5 Units)
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for:
- Students passionate about agroecology, organic farming, and equitable food systems.
- Underrepresented students seeking an inclusive, hands-on learning environment.
- Individuals eager to gain practical experience and connect with professionals in organic agriculture.
- Students wanting to complete a high number of unites and upper division courses over the summer, shortening time to graduation.
- Students wanting to take advantage of tuition savings with Summer Session limiting tuition expense to the first 10 units, over summer.
Why Choose the Agroecology Field Quarter?
- Dive into hands-on activities that integrate theory and practice.
- Connect with farmers, researchers, and community leaders.
- Develop the skills and knowledge to navigate a career in agroecology, organic farming and equitable food systems.
- Be part of a supportive cohort that values equity-centered education, diverse backgrounds and critical perspectives.
Course Outcomes
- Increased confidence in pursuing careers in organic agriculture and extension.
- Practical knowledge of equitable farming and food systems.
- A supportive community of peers and mentors.
- Tools to approach agricultural challenges with innovation and inclusivity.
Application Details
- Duration: 7 weeks (July 6 to August 21, 2026)
- Locations: Central Coast, including UCSC and regional farms, Central Valley including Fresno, Sacramento and UC Davis, and SF Bay Area, including UC Berkeley.
- Eligibility: Open enrollment to undergraduate students of all backgrounds and campuses within the UC and beyond. Requires preparation for upper division coursework.
- Application Process: Click here to complete interest form
Hear from Past Students
“This course gave me what I needed to know I’m on the right path. The hands-on experience and inclusivity made all the difference in my journey.” - Student from 2024 cohort
“The program helped me connect with inspiring professionals and see real-world applications of what I’ve learned.” - Student from 2024 cohort
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Contact Us
For more information, please reach out to Maria Orozco
Email: mdlorozcoramirez@ucanr.edu
UCSC Summer Session Enrollment and Cost Info
Course Flyers
General flyer 8.5 x 11"
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