Food Systems Modeling & Analysis

Course Description

Agriculture and food industries are a subject of growing interest in terms of their resource requirements, ecological impacts, and sustainability. With a focus on local and regional food systems in the United States, this course will provide a foundation in some of the methods of modeling and analysis used to study food systems. We will address several types of approaches, generally building in complexity, starting with net balances of production and consumption and continuing through modeling carrying capacity, foodshed analyses, system dynamics, and integrated transdisciplinary modeling. Students will learn what types of questions are best addressed through modeling approaches, the methods used to conduct food systems models, and the data required to complete the analyses. In addition, they will have opportunities to conduct simple analyses through in-class exercises. Finally, students will learn how models might be relevant to the development of policy related to local and regional food systems or dietary changes to reduce environmental impact. Prerequisite: NUTR 0231: Fundamentals of GIS or an equivalent course with instructor’s consent and graduate standing or instructor consent.

Basic Enrollment Requirements: Unofficial Transcript - Bachelor's + 3.0 GPA. You will be contacted after registration for required evidence of immunization. 

Instructor Approval: During registration, you will be asked to explain how you meet the pre-requisites for this course and to describe any relevant experience. The instructor will use this information to confirm your enrollment or will otherwise be in touch with you. 

Refund Policy: The refund policy for Courses at Tufts offerings is dependent on the course length. Please refer to the section details to confirm any exceptions to the standard refund policy. The refund policies are viewable here: https://universitycollege.tufts.edu/policies#Refunds 

Remission Eligible: Yes; all university policies apply.