The B.S. degree in Sustainable Agriculture emphasizes building healthy soil through crop rotations, organic soil amendments and erosion management. protecting water quality by reducing synthetic chemical use. managing pest and weed problems with integrated, ecologically sound approaches. increasing farm profits and income stability through diverse, community-based enterprises. using knowledge of scientific principles to propose and test farming practices that better mimic natural ecosystems. The University of Maine was the first in the country to offer a bachelor's degree in sustainable agriculture. The Sustainable Agriculture program, initiated in 1988, has been highlighted in the Chronicle of Higher Education. With this degree, students can find employment as a community food-based nonprofit organization employee. manager of an organic or sustainable farm. self-employed market or dairy farmer. research technician. sales and marketing professional for a food retailer, wholesaler, cooperative or direct marketing initiative (e.g., supermarket chain, producer cooperatives).