Business Administration with Agri-Business Emphasis

The Bachelor of Business Administration with an emphasis in Agri-Business at Southern Arkansas University offers students a comprehensive education designed to prepare them for successful careers in the dynamic agricultural and business sectors. This program combines core business principles with specialized knowledge in agricultural industries, equipping graduates with the skills needed to navigate and lead in the agribusiness environment. Students will engage in coursework covering essential areas such as finance, marketing, management, and economics, all tailored to agricultural contexts. The curriculum emphasizes the development of practical skills through case studies, internships, and hands-on projects, enabling students to apply theoretical concepts to real-world situations. Additionally, the program promotes a strong understanding of agricultural commodities, supply chain management, and commodity trading, essential for careers in farm management, agribusiness consulting, or agricultural finance. Students will benefit from the university’s experienced faculty who bring industry insights and research expertise, fostering an environment of academic excellence and professional growth. The program also offers opportunities for student involvement in relevant clubs and industry partnerships, enhancing networking and experiential learning. Graduates of this degree will be well-prepared for careers in various sectors including agricultural production, marketing, sales, and management, or to pursue advanced studies in related fields. The emphasis in Agri-Business ensures that alumni possess a unique blend of business acumen and agricultural knowledge, making them highly competitive in the growing agricultural markets regionally and nationally. With access to modern facilities, resources, and dedicated career services, students are supported throughout their academic journey to achieve their career aspirations in the vibrant field of agribusiness.

The M.B.A. curriculum is designed primarily for graduates of a Bachelor of Business Administration program, but graduates of other programs can enter the program by completing a 24-hour prerequisite program.

The M.B.A. Agri-Business program consists of 33 hours of course requirements. The program is available fully online. A student can complete courses fully online or through a combination of online and night classes. Qualified students may enter the program any semester during the 2-year rotation.

MBA with Agri-Business Emphasis Requirements (33 hours)

• Accounting for Decision Making
• Agriculture Markets and Prices
• International Trade of Agriculture Products
• Agricultural Policies
• Management of Agricultural Production
• Managerial Finance
• Strategic Planning and Analysis
• Human Behavior in Organizations
• Business Analytics
• Strategic Marketing
• Enterprise Resource Planning

A student may be admitted into the MBA program if he/she holds a bachelor’s degree or equivalent from an accredited college or university regardless of the undergraduate field of study. Should a student have an undergraduate degree other than business, prerequisites would include:

• Six hours of principles of accounting (sophomore level or above),
• Three hours of business finance or financial management (junior level or above),
• Three hours of statistics (at the junior level or above),
• Three hours of principles of marketing (at the junior level or above),
• Three hours of micro- economics (sophomore level or above), and
• Three hours of organization theory and behavior or principles of management (junior level or above).

The Business Administration with Agri-Business Emphasis program at Southern Arkansas University offers various financing options to support students throughout their studies. Undergraduate students enrolled in this program can apply for federal and state financial aid, including Pell Grants, which do not require repayment and are designed to assist students with demonstrated financial need. Additionally, students are encouraged to explore scholarships offered by the university, regional organizations, and private foundations that recognize academic achievement, leadership, and potential in business and agricultural fields. Southern Arkansas University provides a range of scholarship opportunities specific to business students, helping to reduce the overall cost of attendance.

Apart from scholarships and grants, students can consider federal student loans, which are available through the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). These loans often feature favorable interest rates and flexible repayment plans, making higher education more accessible. Work-study programs are also available, allowing students to gain work experience while earning money to finance their education. These jobs are typically on-campus and related to the student’s field of study, such as internships or assistantship roles within the university’s business or agricultural departments.

The university also supports payment plans that allow students and families to divide tuition and fee payments into manageable installments over the semester or year, reducing financial burden. For international students, there may be additional scholarship opportunities and private loan options, although eligibility criteria will vary.

Students are advised to begin their financial planning early by completing the FAFSA annually, seeking advisement from the financial aid office, and exploring all available resources to minimize educational expenses. The university emphasizes transparency in its financial aid process, providing clear guidance on application processes, deadlines, and required documentation. Overall, Southern Arkansas University aims to make business education accessible through a comprehensive array of financing options tailored to meet the diverse needs of its students.

The Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration with an emphasis in Agri-Business at Southern Arkansas University offers students a comprehensive education designed to prepare them for careers in the agricultural and business sectors. The program combines foundational courses in business principles with specialized classes that focus on the unique aspects of agriculture-related industries, equipping students with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills. Students have the opportunity to learn about farm management, agricultural marketing, finance, and supply chain logistics, which are vital for success in today’s dynamic agricultural economy. The curriculum emphasizes the development of critical thinking, leadership, and communication skills, enabling graduates to thrive in diverse roles within the agri-business sector.

The program is structured to provide hands-on learning experiences, including internships, projects, and interactions with industry professionals, allowing students to apply their knowledge in real-world settings. Southern Arkansas University also emphasizes the importance of ethical practices and sustainability in agriculture, ensuring that students are prepared to address contemporary challenges such as environmental impact and resource management. The faculty members are experienced educators and industry experts who bring practical insights into the classroom, fostering an engaging learning environment. Additionally, the program offers various support services, career development resources, and networking opportunities to help students transition from academic environments to professional careers successfully. Overall, the Business Administration with an Agri-Business emphasis at Southern Arkansas University is designed to cultivate skilled, innovative, and responsible professionals ready to contribute effectively to the agricultural and business communities locally, nationally, and internationally.