Urban food systems programming expands to better serve working professionals

Wednesday, June 21, 2023 | Written by Beth Jones and Greg Tammen

OLATHE — Kansas State University and faculty at its Olathe campus are making it easier for community leaders around the world to increase access to fresh produce and economic prosperity in their towns or cities by providing a fully online master’s degree program in urban food systems beginning this fall.

The online professional track creates a more convenient and flexible learning opportunity for working professionals living far from the Kansas City metro area or with limited availability to attend on-site classes. The program also offers a thesis track on site at K-State Olathe.

The professional track is ideal for those working in nonprofit, community organizations or businesses who want to increase food access and food sustainability in their local or regional communities.

“Anyone who has a bachelor’s degree and an interest in learning more about urban food systems is welcome to join our program,” said Eleni Pliakoni, professor of urban food production and postharvest handling and director of the degree program. “We are proud of the fact that many of our students do not have a background in horticulture and enjoy the learning environment that this diversity provides.”

Because of the track’s flexible delivery and the multidisciplinary nature of the program’s students and content, professionals in fields not typically associated with urban food production, such as sociology or public health, will find the degree beneficial, Pliakoni said.

Additionally, graduates of the urban food systems program have a 99% job placement rate.

“Students can pursue a variety of diverse career options when they choose to study urban food systems," said Pliakoni. “Many of the students go into extension or may work at farming - or food related nonprofit organizations. Students can even use their new skills to run a farm or nonprofit. Of course, some students will opt to continue with the Ph.D. program and go the academic route.”

The master’s degree in horticulture with an emphasis in urban food systems equips graduates with the knowledge and skills necessary to help increase the availability and nutritional quality of fresh produce grown in and around the urban environment. Students also learn how urban food production can affect and contribute to local economic development.

In addition to this master’s degree, K-State also offers a 12 credit graduate certificate in urban food systems that provides a systems-level deep dive into urban food systems and the cultural, environmental and economic roles that influence them.

Make sure you read our Q and A with Eleni Pliakoni to learn more about her work.

You can also learn more about the urban foods program at olathe.k-state.edu/urbanfood.