The Master of Science in Agricultural and Resource Economics, Plan B, offered by the Department of Agricultural and Resource Economics, is a program of study consisting of 30 credit hours in coursework, plus the preparation of a technical paper. Completion of this degree implies a mastery of fundamental microeconomic theory and econometrics, with an ability to conduct applied economic research under supervision. Graduates are competitive for employment in the public and private sectors as analysts, consultants, researchers, and other occupations involving analytical skills. Our students have gone on to rewarding careers in federal agencies such as the National Park Service, U.S. Department of Agriculture, State Departments of Agriculture, NGOs, and the private sector. The program provides a solid foundation for the students wishing to pursue higher level graduate studies (Ph.D.), but it is particularly well suited for students seeking to directly enter the workforce or international students planning to return to their own country after obtaining the degree.

Effective Fall 2020

Core Courses
AREC 506/ECON 506Applied Microeconomic Theory3
AREC 507Applied Welfare and Policy Analysis3
AREC 535/ECON 535Applied Econometrics3
ECON 501Quantitative Methods for Economists3
Methods Courses
Select one from the following:3
AREC 615
Optimization Methods for Applied Economics
AREC 635/ECON 635
Econometric Theory I
Field Courses
Select one group from the following:3-6
Group A:
AREC 540/ECON 540
Environmental and Natural Resource Economics
Group B:
AREC 605
Agricultural Production and Cost Analysis
AREC 610
Agricultural Marketing and Demand Analysis
Electives
Electives 19-12
Research
Technical Paper Required 2
Program Total Credits:30

A minimum of 30 credits are required to complete this program.

1

 Select courses with approval of advisor.

2

 Students in Plan B must write a technical paper.