Jun 15, 2026  
2026-2027 University Catalog 
    
2026-2027 University Catalog

Agricultural Economics, MS

Location(s): West Lafayette, Online, Hybrid


About the Program


The Master of Science program in Purdue’s Department of Agricultural Economics provide excellent preparation for students seeking professional positions in higher education, public service, and private industry. The 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. Coursework 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

Required Courses (15 credits)


Thesis Research (12 credits)


Program Requirements - Non-Thesis


36 Credits Required

Required Courses (15 credits)


Other Core Courses (6 credits)


In addition to the courses below, Professional MS students must complete a Capstone Project. Check with the Graduate Coordinator for details.

Selectives (30 credits)


Choose at least ten courses from the Selectives list above, under Program Requirements - Thesis. 

Research Course (3 credits)


Concentrations


Departmental concentrations:

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

Interdisciplinary concentrations:

Program Learning Outcomes


GPA Requirements


All courses appearing on the Plan of Study must 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.