Description

Learn how to create sustainable, productive, and beautiful human environments using natural ecosystems as models. Permaculture is an evolving and expanding design system for ecological living, integrating plants, animals, buildings, people, and communities. Through experiential, participatory, field-based, and classroom learning, participants will explore the relationships between personal, social, and ecological sustainability in the rich context of life at the Sirius Community - an educational and spiritual ecovillage in scenic western Massachusetts.

This intensive three-week course balances rigorous and engaged academic learning with hands-on fieldwork, site visits and design practice. The academic curriculum focuses on design as an ecological process, assessing natural systems, and weaving integrated solutions to local and global problems. Faculty guide students through the design of projects beginning with interviews of clients, needs assessment, development of real solutions, and culminates in a formal permaculture design and presentation. Class and research time will be in Sirius' beautiful Octagon meeting room as well as in the gardens, forest, homes and orchards which surround it.

Highlights

* Visit urban farms, Community-Supported Agricultural (CSA) projects, Eco-homesteads.
* Learn about green and natural building techniques, appropriate technology, sustainable organic agriculture and their viability in different setttings.
* Be part of the 4th Annual Regional Permaculture Gathering at Nuestras Raices urban farm.
* Become a Certified Permaculture Apprentice eligible to become a Permaculture Designer after two years of applied experience.

Degree Level

Bachelors Degree (Undergraduate)

Subject Areas

• Agricultural Sciences
• Ecology
• Environmental Management
• Environmental Studies
• Landscape Architecture
• Urban & Regional Planning

Cost in US$:

2,100

Program Fees Include:

* Tuition only.
* Room & board varies: (295 USD - 1000 USD) Shared room, camping, & commuter options.
* Academic Credit through UMass Amherst is 335 USD

Experience Required

no

This Program is open to

Worldwide Participants.

Typical Living Arrangements

• Group living

Participants Travel

Independently or in Groups

Typically Participants Work

Independently or in Groups of 8 - 15

Scholarships are Available

Living Routes offers need-based Scholarships to all who qualify and apply. To apply for our scholarships, please complete the Living Routes Financial Aid Application (Feel free to call to request one by mail). Applications for financial assistance will be reviewed only after you have been accepted into a program and will not be official until we receive your deposit confirming your participation.

Application Process Involves

• Phone/Video Interview
• Written Application

Post Services Include

• Alumni Network
• Job and Internship Network