Discover Guatemala Through the Lens of Sustainable Agriculture
Note: AGRI 325 Sustainable Agriculture and Food Security in Guatemala is taught in odd-numbered summers. The course will next be offered in summer 2027. Please check back for application instructions and deadlines.
AGRI 325 is a 3-credit intensive course that offers a unique, immersive learning experience in Guatemala, where you'll explore tropical cropping systems—from industrial export crops to subsistence farming—while engaging directly with local farmers, professionals, and professors. This 3-credit intensive course blends academic insight with cultural discovery, including visits to ancient Mayan ruins and vibrant towns like Antigua Guatemala.
No Spanish? No problem—discussions are translated, and support is available for those interested in staying longer through a credited McGill internship. Whether you're passionate about food systems, environmental issues, or global development, this course offers hands-on learning and unforgettable experiences that can shape your academic and career path.
The course is developed and offered in collaboration with Universidad Rafael Landívar.
Information for IDS and Arts students
International Development Studies students
This course is an approved substitution for the IDS program and can be counted as a Complimentary Thematic course in the IDS programs (Major, Minor, Honours and Joint Honours).
Arts students
If you are considering taking this course, you should note that this course is considered outside of Arts and Science. There is a Faculty of Arts restriction on how many courses you are allowed to take outside of Arts and Science.
Program details
Teaching staff
Dr. Julie Major, agr (Tropical Agriculture)
Mr. Simon Brault, agr (Agricultural Economics)
Cost
$1,969.06 CAD in summer 2025. May be subject to change in 2027.
Included: All accommodation, meals, and ground transportation for all course-related activities. Accommodation is in hostels or hotels, and meals are eaten at restaurants (mostly) or in communities in the field.
NOT included: Airfare, tuition, immunizations, health insurance, travel from and to the airport in Guatemala City, and personal expenses.
Funding opportunities
McGill students may apply for a need-based bursary to help cover the program cost.
How to apply
AGRI 325 Sustainable Agriculture and Food Security in Guatemala is taught in odd-numbered summers. The course will next be offered in summer 2027. Please check back for application instructions and deadlines.
Application instructions
- Complete the online application form (not currently available)
- Email a cover letter to julie.major [at] mcgill.ca (Dr. Julie Major) explaining your motivation to participate in the course, and your preparedness for intensive travel and living with a group for 2 weeks (cover letter should be no longer than 1 page)
- For non-McGill students only: include a legible copy of your academic transcript, with your application documents. Applications are considered on a rolling basis.
What do our students have to say?
AGRI 325 was an amazing opportunity to gain exposure to the study of agriculture and food security in context. In fact, the experience compelled me to study environmental law. This course has given me invaluable perspective that I will always carry with me in my work in the environmental field.”
(Giovanni Antonucci (B.A. Environment McGill, J.D. Candidate Syracuse University College of Law)
"This course doesn't only provide you with a deep understanding of sustainable agriculture & food security, it also allows you to discover a country through a truly unique lens combining diversity in local cultures and landscapes."
(Maxime Lakat, B.Com candidate)
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View photos from past trips