Try everything: What CFANS students are learning this fall
October 6, 2026
At the University of Minnesota, students can try everything on the way to becoming anything — and in the College of Food, Agricultural and Natural Resource Sciences (CFANS), that journey begins with immediate, immersive discovery. Here are a few of the courses CFANS students are taking this fall on their path to finding their purpose.
Hands-on learning: Applied agricultural practices
ANSC 1205: Animal Handling: Livestock
Learn how to safely and responsibly work with livestock. The course introduces students to animal handling techniques and the behaviors, facilities and equipment involved in caring for animals.
AECM 3051: Agricultural Construction, Power and Safety
Learn practical skills used in agricultural construction and power systems, with an emphasis on safe practices. Students get hands-on experience with the tools, equipment and technology used in agricultural settings.
Exploring global sustainability: Climate, energy and development
ESPM 3251: Natural Resources in Sustainable International Development
Explore how natural resources, environmental challenges and sustainable development intersect around the world. This course takes a global look at the ways communities manage resources and work toward a more sustainable future.
BBE 1201: Renewable Energy, Climate Change, Society, and the Environment
How can renewable energy help address climate change? Explore the science, technology and social dimensions of renewable energy and consider how energy choices shape people and the environment.
Plant and pollinator health: Environmental well-being
PLPA 1005: Plants get sick too
Plants get diseases, too. Explore the causes and effects of plant diseases and learn how plant health can influence agriculture, ecosystems and the food we depend on.
ENT 1909: Bees: Ecology, Health, and Conservation of Diverse Pollinators
Discover the world of bees and other pollinators, from their ecology and health to their role in our ecosystems. Explore the challenges facing pollinators and the conservation efforts working to protect them.
Sustainable Communities: Housing, Food and Urban Agriculture
ESPM 3601: Sustainable Housing: Community, Environment, and Technology
What makes a home sustainable? Explore the connections between housing, technology, communities and the environment while considering how we can create more sustainable places to live.
FDSY 1016W: Growing Food and Building Community: Urban Agriculture in the Twin Cities
Take your learning into the Twin Cities and explore how growing food can strengthen communities. This course examines urban agriculture and the people, places and systems that make it possible through on campus and field trip learning experiences.
Food and Flavor: Science You Can Taste
FSCN 1251: Chocolate Unwrapped: How Science Turns Cacao into Delight
What turns cacao into chocolate? Unwrap the science behind one of the world's favorite foods and explore the processes, ingredients and chemistry that transform cacao into a familiar treat.
HORT 1031: Vines and Wines: Introduction to Viticulture and Enology
Explore the science behind grapes and wine, from growing vines to producing the finished product. This course introduces students to both viticulture, the science of grape production, and enology, the science of winemaking.
Ready to try everything? Visit CFANS this fall or learn more about applying to the University of Minnesota.
