Two bucket systems with plant growth.

Indoor Farming Foundations

One male student and one female student work with the produce growing in upright hydroponic indoor farming stations.

Why wait for the right season?

Dive into the high-tech world of indoor agriculture and learn to master the elements. This course isn't just about growing plants, it's about engineering the perfect environment. From climate controls to optimizing energy efficiency, you’ll discover how to maximize productivity and build a sustainable food future all from the inside out.

Students will get to grow fresh food in the lab and learn about:

  • Resilient Farming Practices 
  • Food Sovereignty  
  • Urban Agriculture
  • Hydroponic Farming
  • Optimal Grow Conditions

This is a different kind of farming: no dirt, no unpredictable weather, and no waiting for the sun to come out. Controlled Environment Agriculture is where engineering meets sustainability. In this course, you aren’t just a gardener - you’re an architect of an entire ecosystem. If you want to build a more resilient food future and learn the how and why behind plant growth, join us in this lab that’s redefining what it means to be a grower.

Student works on vertical system

"Having this knowledge I feel closer with nature, which is important."

Kristana Velazquez

CEA, '26

Course begins August 24th

  • Mondays & Tuesdays from 10-11:40 AM
  • Runs from August 24th-December 12th
  • Classes located in the recently renovated Jacobetti Complex
  • Students will enroll in both the lecture and lab sections of the course

This course is under the Scientific Inquiry (SCI) general education requirement.

 

Contact Information

For credit seeking students:

Lehren Olk-Szost

Assistant Professor of Controlled Environment Agriculture

For additional questions, please see your Student Success Advisor or email tos@nmu.edu