Agricultural Economics, MS

About the Program

The Master of Science and Doctor of Philosophy programs in Purdue’s Department of Agricultural Economics provide excellent preparation for students seeking professional positions in higher education, public service, and private industry. Each program is founded on a strong base in economic theory and quantitative research tools. This training is combined with coursework focusing on applications of theory and analytical methods to problem-solving, in any of the areas of specialization a student chooses. Coursework usually is followed by a research experience that develops the student’s ability to apply skills learned in the classroom.

Master’s students can pursue a traditional thesis or professional non-thesis option. The traditional track is research-oriented and leads to the completion of a thesis. This track prepares students for careers in business, consulting, finance, government and non-governmental organizations. The Thesis Research M.S. also provides the necessary foundation to prepare a student for more advanced graduate work in pursuit of a Ph.D. Exact opportunities for research vary depending upon a student’s choice of specialty area, available topics for research, and faculty interest. 

The second track is the Professional Master’s in International Agribusiness, a non-thesis degree program for individuals looking to obtain a high profile marketing and management position in the Agribusiness sector. Graduates find fulfilling careers working with international clientele in the dynamic and rapidly growing international Food and Agribusiness Industry. The International Agribusiness master’s degree is available either in-residence or fully online. The fully online option includes two certificate options built into the program.

See below for each set of requirements for the thesis or non-thesis option.

Program Website

Program Requirements - Thesis

36 Credits Required

Program Requirements - Non-Thesis

36 Credits Required

Concentrations

Departmental concentrations:

• Agricultural Law (online & residential)
• International Agribusiness for Professionals (online & residential)
• Food and Agribusiness Management (hybrid & residential)

Interdisciplinary concentrations:

• Computational Science and Engineering Concentration (GR)  (residential only)
• Interdisciplinary Ecological Sciences and Engineering Concentration (GR)  (residential only)
• Ingestive Behavior Concentration (GR)  (residential only)
• Peace Corp Msts Intl - IESE (residential only)

GPA Requirements

The Graduate School requires that all courses appearing on the Plan of Study be passed with a grade of C- or better.

Graduate Programs Disclaimer

• The student is ultimately responsible for knowing and completing all degree requirements. Students should consult with their advisor/department for more information.
• Not all graduate programs may be actively recruiting students and course modality availability may vary. 
• Please refer to the Explore Graduate Programs website for a list of currently available graduate programs.
• Transfer credit policy: Credits earned for graduate study at other universities (both domestic and international) may be applied toward an advanced degree. Only credit hours associated with graduate courses for which grades of B- or better were obtained will be eligible for transfer. Any additional conditions under which credit transfers may be made are determined by the various departments.
• Comparative information about Purdue University and other U.S. educational institutions is also available through the College Navigator tool, provided by the National Center for Education Statistics, and through the U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.