Class Central is learner-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Canvas Network

Intro to Permaculture Design

Oregon State University via Canvas Network

This course may be unavailable.

Overview

Learn an ethically based, whole-systems design approach to create sustainable human settlements and institutions. Although rooted in horticulture and agriculture, we’ll also touch on regional planning, ecology, architecture, and international development. 

Reviews

4.0 rating, based on 16 Class Central reviews

Start your review of Intro to Permaculture Design

  • I completed this course in May. It was focused and well structured. The course introduced and defined the ethics and principles which are the framework of permaculture design. It provided a wealth of information and training in the permaculture…
  • Vivian Sande Sanders
    I took this course in the spring of 2016 after buying a house in a rural, coastal town on a hillside in a region with over 60 inches of rain per year. I learned so much and spent more like 4 to 6 hours perday keeping up with all of the videos and…
  • Patricia Raymond
    Loved this class, bummed that the ratings are artificially low due to technical issues. I have taken it twice; first time didn't complete due to insufficient time (mine), second time reveled in the work. Learned so much, and am starting to implement the specific plans I developed at my new home. Planning to take again this session and further clarify. Needs to be taken with a class rather than alone as some of my best input came from classmates in a similar microclimate commenting on my work, or my reviews of their work. The supplemental websites and video were valuable, and you could partake as much as you wished.
  • Caitlin Kroeger
    I really enjoyed this class and I felt like I learned a lot. I found the recorded lectures to be easy to understand, of good/appropriate length, and well executed. The software tools they introduced students to during projects were very interesting and it was cool to pick a piece of land and see the concepts in motion. The "extra" articles and tools were thoughtfully chosen and added extra dimension to the course. I found that I did have to be serious about setting aside a good chunk of time each week to dedicate to this course. I personally would have liked a self-paced version. If you're thinking about taking this course, I would highly recommend it.
  • Anonymous
    Permaculture, a combination of the words permanent and agriculture, offers a unique approach to the practice of sustainable farming, ranching, gardening and living. Permaculture shows how to observe the dynamics of natural ecosystems. We can apply this knowledge in designing constructed ecosystems that serve the needs of human populations without degrading our natural environment (water, land, forests) etc. In Nature, Nature is always caring for the earth, caring for people, and reinvesting in the future. These basic ethics form a solid foundation on which humans can build a stable and sustainable future.
  • Anonymous
    I tried to complete the class but it was deactivated in the morning of 5/31 rather than at the end of the day. I had only a couple of activities to complete. Would be happy to change my review if you reactivate and allow me the day to finish the work. I invested alot of time in this and am disappointed I can not complete it. The online help files are not helpful at all.
  • Anonymous
    Been a Permaculture student for a while now, doing self study. I took the class and learned some new, useful stuff.

    Hopefully the requirements for the type of computer needed have been changed because I didn't have complete access to the all the material needed to finish the course. All of the publicly available computers in my area that I checked weren't fully compatible either.
  • Anonymous
    This is an excellent intro/crash cours of the concept and principles of Permaculture, it helped me great time to put hand on all elements I need to be aware of, for better designing and planning of my life, and the teaching team are really helpful and responsive. I highly recommend it to anyone and everyone.
  • Willy Corner
    i'm so excited to start this course, permaculture is the topo of the iceberg yo create a better relationship with mamaterra
  • Anonymous
    Been a Permaculture student for a while now, doing self study. I took the class and learned some new, useful stuff.

    Hopefully the requirements for the type of computer needed have been changed because I didn't have complete access to the all the material needed to finish the course. All of the publicly available computers in my area that I checked weren't fully compatible either.
  • Anonymous
    I am having trouble figuring out how to access the site. I can get to the syllabus so I understand what the objectives and assignments are but I can't figure out where I upload my site map or access the discussion area. HELP. I want to take this course and submit my completed work.
  • Anonymous
    Excellent course for anyone who wants to learn about Permaculture Design. The Interactive elements and activities in the course were very helpful. Thank you for offering this for free.
  • Anonymous
    Got locked out of login with canvas network does not recognize my passwords hard to finish the work if one cannot login.
  • Profile image for Erica Peak-nordstrom
    Erica Peak-nordstrom
  • Anonymous
    I'm currently inrolled in an organic/biodynamic farm in Wisconsin and I would like to know more about permaculture. I'm excited about the course.
  • Hi everyone! I'm from Spain and I'm excited about start this permaculture course. We have the roll to make big changes!

Never Stop Learning.

Get personalized course recommendations, track subjects and courses with reminders, and more.

Someone learning on their laptop while sitting on the floor.