Agricultural Economics

The Bachelor of Science in Agricultural Economics at Kansas State University offers students a comprehensive education that combines economic theory, agricultural sciences, and business practices to prepare them for a wide range of career opportunities within the agriculture and natural resources sectors. This program is designed to develop students' analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills, enabling them to address complex issues related to farm management, rural development, agricultural policy, and international trade. Students receive a solid foundation in microeconomics, macroeconomics, statistics, and econometrics, along with specialized coursework in topics such as agricultural marketing, agribusiness management, commodity futures markets, and environmental economics. The program emphasizes practical application through internships, research projects, and involvement with industry professionals, ensuring graduates are well-equipped to meet the dynamic challenges of the global agricultural economy. Career prospects for graduates include roles in farm management, agricultural consulting, government agencies, agribusiness firms, financial institutions, and international organizations. Kansas State University's strong ties with industry partners and its active research centers provide students with valuable networking opportunities and access to cutting-edge developments in agricultural economics. Furthermore, students have the option to pursue minors or specializations in areas such as agricultural finance, rural sociology, or international agriculture to tailor their education to specific career goals. The program prepares students not only for immediate employment but also for advanced studies in economics, law, or related fields. With a focus on sustainability, innovation, and economic resilience, the Agricultural Economics program at Kansas State University aims to cultivate leaders who will contribute meaningfully to the development of sustainable agricultural systems and rural communities worldwide.

The Bachelor of Science in Agricultural Economics at Kansas State University offers students a comprehensive education that combines economic theory, agricultural sciences, and business principles to prepare graduates for diverse careers in the agriculture and food industries. The program is designed to develop analytical skills, economic reasoning, and practical knowledge necessary to address complex issues related to agricultural production, marketing, policy, and resource management. Students will explore topics such as commodity markets, international trade, agribusiness management, environmental economics, and rural development, equipping them with a versatile skill set applicable to various roles within the agricultural sector and beyond. The program emphasizes experiential learning through research projects, internships, and involvement in student organizations, providing real-world experiences that enhance employability. Additionally, the curriculum includes courses in finance, accounting, statistics, and communication, ensuring graduates are well-rounded and prepared for leadership positions. Graduates of the Agricultural Economics program at Kansas State University are prepared for careers in agricultural consulting, farm management, policy analysis, commodity trading, marketing, and government agencies, or they may choose to pursue advanced degrees in economics or business. The program benefits from the university’s strong links to the agricultural industry, offering students access to cutting-edge research, industry experts, and networking opportunities. With a focus on sustainability, innovation, and global agriculture, the program aims to develop professionals capable of contributing effectively to the agricultural economy and addressing worldwide challenges related to food security, environmental conservation, and rural development.

Program requirements for the Bachelor of Science in Agricultural Economics at Kansas State University include completing a minimum of 120 credit hours, with a combination of general education, core, and elective courses. Students must fulfill university-wide graduation requirements, which encompass writing proficiency, diversity and inclusion coursework, and a minimum of 31 upper-division credits. The core curriculum involves courses such as Introduction to Agricultural Economics, Principles of Microeconomics and Macroeconomics, Agricultural Markets and Prices, and the Economics of Natural Resources. Additionally, students are encouraged to pursue specialized electives in areas like agricultural policy, international trade, or agricultural finance to tailor their education to specific interests. A foundational requirement includes completing a quantitative methods course, such as Statistics or Econometrics, to develop analytical skills essential for economic analysis. Many students participate in experiential learning through internships, cooperative education programs, or research projects to gain practical industry experience. The program also emphasizes communication skills; thus, students often complete coursework in professional writing and presentations. To graduate, students must maintain a satisfactory GPA, typically at least 2.0 overall, and meet all departmental and university standards. Some programs within the department may suggest or require minors or additional certifications, such as certificates in International Agricultural Development or Business. Furthermore, students are advised to consult with academic advisors regularly to ensure their course selections align with their career goals, whether in government agencies, private industry, or further graduate studies. The curriculum is periodically reviewed and updated to reflect the latest economic theories, technological advances, and industry demands to ensure students are well-prepared for the evolving agricultural sector.

Want to improve your English level for admission?

Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.

• ✔️ Flexible study schedule
• ✔️ Experienced teachers
• ✔️ Certificate upon completion

📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.

Enroll in the course

The Agricultural Economics program at Kansas State University offers a variety of financing options to support students throughout their academic journey. Tuition fees for in-state undergraduate students are approximately $10,000 per year, while out-of-state students pay around $25,000 annually. Graduate students may incur different costs depending on their program and assistance options. Kansas State University provides several financial aid opportunities, including scholarships, grants, work-study programs, and assistantships. Prospective students are encouraged to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to determine eligibility for federal aid programs. Scholarships specific to the College of Agriculture include the Agriculture Scholarship Program, which awards merit-based funds to outstanding students pursuing degrees in agricultural sciences, including Agricultural Economics. Graduate students can apply for research and teaching assistantships, which often include a tuition waiver and a stipend to offset living expenses. External funding sources such as private foundations and industry partnerships also offer scholarships and fellowships for students in the field of agricultural economics. The university’s financial office provides detailed guidance on payment plans, loan options, and budgeting advice to help students manage their educational costs effectively. It is recommended that students explore all available resources early in their academic planning to maximize financial support and minimize debt. Additionally, students should consult with academic advisors and the university’s financial aid office for personalized assistance in securing funding. Kansas State University is committed to making education accessible by providing comprehensive financial assistance tailored to meet the needs of diverse student populations interested in Agricultural Economics.

Agricultural Economics at Kansas State University offers a comprehensive curriculum designed to prepare students for diverse careers in the agricultural sector, food systems, natural resource management, and related fields. The program combines economic theory, business principles, and practical applications to provide students with a solid understanding of how agricultural markets operate, how policies impact production and distribution, and how economic principles can be applied to solve real-world problems in agriculture and rural development.

Students in the Agricultural Economics program have opportunities to engage in hands-on learning experiences, including internships, research projects, and collaborations with industry partners. The program emphasizes the development of analytical skills, quantitative methods, and communication abilities essential for success in the agricultural and resource-based sectors. Coursework covers subjects such as microeconomics, macroeconomics, farm management, commodity markets, international trade, environmental economics, and policy analysis.

The program also offers specializations and minors that allow students to focus on areas such as agribusiness management, international development, or natural resource economics. Faculty members are distinguished experts in their fields, providing mentorship and guidance through research and practical experiences. The university's facilities support experiential learning, including access to state-of-the-art laboratories, data analysis tools, and agricultural research farms.

Graduates of the Agricultural Economics program at Kansas State University find employment in various roles including farm management, commodity marketing, policy analysis, consulting, and roles within government agencies, private industry, and non-profit organizations. They are equipped to contribute to sustainable agricultural practices, food security initiatives, and rural economic development. The program also prepares students for further education, including graduate studies in economics, public policy, or agricultural sciences.

Overall, the Agricultural Economics program at Kansas State University is designed to develop competent professionals equipped with the economic expertise and practical skills necessary to address the challenges and opportunities facing modern agriculture and rural communities. The program’s interdisciplinary approach aligns with the university’s commitment to excellence in research, teaching, and extension services, fostering innovation and leadership among its graduates.