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Starting this Fall, the University of the Virgin Islands School of Agriculture (SOA) will offer two new degree programs: associate degrees in horticulture and agroecology. The new degrees were approved by the UVI Board of Trustees during their quarterly board meeting on Saturday, June 19th .
UVI said students in the horticulture program will learn the science and art of producing fruits, vegetables, flowers, herbs, and ornamental plants, in addition to how to improve and market them. Agroecology seeks to enhance the interactions between plants, animals, humans, and the environment for sustainable and fair food systems.
The associates of applied science program in horticulture and agroecology are two-year programs that will prepare students for entry level jobs with the option to transfer and/or continue on to bachelor’s degree programs in agricultural sciences at UVI or other colleges and universities, the institution of higher learning said.
“The approval of these two new degrees is a great steppingstone for the School of Agriculture’s Academic Programs," said Usman Adamu, dean and director for the School of Agriculture. “This is just the beginning for growth and development that will have a positive impact on our students and the Territory.”
Some of the careers that are associated with agroecology include research assistants, garden coordinators, farm managers, soil and plant scientists. A horticulture career can lead to plant breeding, genetic engineering, landscape designs, farming, education, and more.
The SOA is also offering two certificate programs in agriculture business and agrotourism.
UVI said the SOA embraces its land-grant mission of providing innovative and cutting-edge research, teaching, and extension programs that respond to the educational, social, economic, and environmental needs of the citizens of the Virgin Islands and the Caribbean region.
For more information about all the above-mentioned programs, visit the School of Agriculture https://www.uvi.edu/academics/school-of-agriculture/default.aspx or email Marthious Clavier at [email protected] or call (340) 692-4090
