Agricultural and Applied Economics

专业介绍

Agricultural and applied economics (AAE) majors learn about the principles of economics and how to apply them to real-world problems and public policy debates. This training equips students to analyze the economic factors impacting a wide range of issues, including environmental challenges and sustainability, energy and climate change, globalization and trade, business economics and finance, global poverty and hunger, community and regional economic development, biotechnology, and food systems.

A degree in agricultural and applied economics helps students prepare to work as environmental economists, environmental managers, agricultural economists, policy and business analysts, researchers, managers, consultants, and auditors with nonprofit organizations, government agencies, co-operatives, multinational firms, agribusiness companies, financial institutions, and the food or retailing industry. Students also go on to pursue graduate-level degrees in economics, public policy, business, or law.

Learn through hands-on, real-world experiences

Students are encouraged to apply their course learning to real life through research projects, independent studies, and internships with guidance from faculty and staff members. During their final year, majors complete a senior capstone course where they work closely with fellow students on a semester-long project and also hear from program alumni. 

Build community and networks

Students get to know faculty and instructors through the courses they take, and they can build their networks by participating in student organizations and the department’s commodity trading challenge team.

Individuals selected for the Renk Scholarship Program, operated by the Renk Agribusiness Institute, receive mentorship and financial support, as well as internship and networking opportunities.

Customize a path of study

AAE students customize their academic experience to fit their career goals by selecting one of four concentrations within the major: environmental economics, development economics, managerial economics, or applied economics.

Make a strong start

A number of first-year seminar courses are available to help new students understand academic programs, access student services, and develop time management and study skills. 

Gain a global perspective

Many AAE majors study abroad to gain an international perspective and prepare to participate in today’s global economy. Students can explore studying abroad as an AAE major utilizing the AAE Major Advising Page. Students work with their advisor and the CALS study abroad office to identify appropriate programs.