College of Agriculture, Urban Sustainability and Environmental Sciences (CAUSES)

TV special featuring UDC-CAUSES and mother-daughter duo Laurita and Lauren Portee explore education, innovation, and community engagement in Washington, D.C., highlighting programs in urban agriculture, food systems, environmental science, sustainability, nutrition, and community wellness.

Formed in 2010, the College of Agriculture, Urban Sustainability & Environmental Sciences (CAUSES) was established as a land-grant college at the University of the District of Columbia. Through applied teaching and research, our mission has been to improve the lives and economic opportunities of residents in our area and beyond. From hands-on learning to cutting-edge research, UDC-CAUSES offers academic degree and community education pathways for every stage of your journey.

Academic Programs: Bachelor's through Doctoral degrees
Community Workshops: Online, Hybrid & On-Campus
Research Initiatives: Urban Farms, Labs & Green Roof
Community Resources: Land-grant Centers & Urban Food Hubs
Farmers Markets
Summer Camps & Youth Development Programs

Apply Now!CAUSES AT-A-GLANCE

Featured Events

Save the Date for UDC and DCBIA 2026 Project at East Capitol Urban Farm.

DCBIA Community Improvement Day 2026

In partnership with UDC and the District of Columbia Building Industry Association (DCBIA) 2026 Project, 200–300 volunteers, architects, and contractors will reunite and complete renovations to East Capitol Urban Farm. In 2015, DCBIA and UDC built ECUF, which is the largest urban farm in the district.

The legacy shared by the two organizations fosters a commitment to community service. This initiative ensures that the Ward 7 community resource continues to thrive and maintain its role as a hub for urban agriculture, environmental education, and community connection.

volunteer at this event

Academic Programs

Land-Grant Centers

People at the UDC-CAUSES Van Ness Farmer's Market

Center for Urban Resilience, Innovation and Infrastructure

Center for Urban Resilience, Innovation and Infrastructure (CURII) provides relevant and innovative applied research and education to make our cities and communities more resilient, equitable, and sustainable. CURII thought leadership helps urban communities become more sustainable and resilient.

Learn more about CURII

Center for Urban Agriculture and Gardening Education

Center for Urban Agriculture and Gardening Education (CUAGE) seeks to expand academic and public knowledge of sustainable farming techniques that improve food and water security. The center also seeks to improve the health and wellness of people in the local community and worldwide.

Learn more about CUAGE

Center for Nutrition, Diet and Health

The Center for Nutrition, Diet and Health (CDNH) offers high-quality, research-based community outreach programs that combat systemic urban nutrition and health issues. CNDH is dedicated to educating residents on the benefits of a healthy lifestyle and preventing obesity, heart disease and other health threats.

Learn more about CNDH

Healthy Cities, Healthy People

About UDC-CAUSES

Mission and Vision

Learn about our mission and student experience!

Mission and Vision

Welcome from the Dean

Welcome to the University of the District of Columbia's College of Agriculture, Urban Sustainability and Environmental Sciences!

Read the Dean's Message

Faculty and Staff

Connect with our world class faculty and staff!

Faculty and Staff

UDC Resources

In addition to the degrees and land-grant center opportunities, we encourage you to access our college's resources from media and research reports to workshops and other forms of training. For more information about CAUSES, call 202-274-7124 or email [email protected].