Background

Organic farming plays a prominent role in research and teaching at the University of Hohenheim. Teaching and research, in line with the idea of the organism and its interdisciplinary nature, are not covered by one single institute but are rather coordinated and organized by the Center for Organic Farmer. This approach encourages interdisciplinary work between the institutes and promotes systems thinking in students. Consequently, teaching related to organic farming is usually conducted in an interdisciplinary way, i.e. experts teach aspects of plant and animal production as well as aspects of processing and economics which are of particular importance for organic farming or differ from other agricultural systems.

The Organic Agriculture and Food Systems Master’s program is designed and structured according to these principles and covers the entire food chain from field to table. All courses are offered in English in order to account for the growing worldwide interest in organic farming.

Almost all institutes and departments at the university are involved in research related to organic farming. Research as well as proposals for research funding are coordinated by the Center for Organic Farming. Scientists are thereby supported in their application process and with possibilities to cooperate.

For teaching and experimental research in organic farming, the organic research station Kleinhohenheim is located close to campus (about 3 km) and provides a variety of infrastructure, including fields (about 60 ha), buildings, machinery and personnel. This allows for going beyond a theoretical understanding of organic farming by illustrating problems in a practical context and provides the opportunity for students to experience organic farming in practice.