Michigan State University

What you'll study

This programme blends core management disciplines with agriculture-specific content. Typical coursework covers agricultural finance and farm management, agribusiness marketing, commodity and futures markets, supply chain management for food systems, and risk management. Students also take applied quantitative modules such as microeconomics for managers, econometrics or applied statistics, and decision analysis.

Programme formats commonly include a choice of thesis or non-thesis (project/practicum) tracks. The non-thesis option emphasises an applied capstone, practicum or internship with an agribusiness, food company, cooperative or government agency. The thesis option focuses on independent research under the supervision of faculty from the Department of Agricultural, Food, and Resource Economics and may be followed by publication or progression to doctoral study.

Examples of typical modules and topics:

• Agribusiness Finance and Investment
• Farm and Agribusiness Management
• Agricultural Marketing and Consumer Behaviour
• Commodity Markets, Hedging and Risk Management
• Supply Chain and Logistics for Food Systems
• Applied Econometrics and Forecasting
• Agricultural Policy and Trade
• Sustainability and Natural Resource Management
• Capstone Project, Practicum or Thesis

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution in agriculture, economics, business, natural resources or a related field. Admissions typically consider the overall academic record and preparation in quantitative subjects; coursework in microeconomics, statistics or accounting is advantageous.

Common application components include a CV or résumé, academic transcripts, a personal statement describing objectives and fit with the programme, and letters of recommendation. Standardised tests such as the GRE may be requested or optional depending on the applicant's background and department policy. International applicants must demonstrate English proficiency through recognised tests unless exempt.

Relevant professional experience in agriculture, food systems, commodity trading or agribusiness can strengthen an application, particularly for candidates pursuing the non-thesis/practicum track.

Career prospects

Graduates leave prepared for managerial and analytical roles across the agricultural and food sectors. Typical career paths include positions as agribusiness managers, farm or operations managers, commodity market analysts, supply chain and logistics specialists, and marketing or product managers for food companies.

Other opportunities exist in banking and finance (agribusiness lending and risk analysis), government and policy agencies (agricultural policy, trade and regulation), cooperatives and producer organisations, international development and NGOs, and extension services. Graduates with a research focus may continue to doctoral study or move into research roles in universities, think tanks or industry R&D.

Why study at Michigan State University

Michigan State is a leading land-grant institution with a long history in agricultural research, extension and education. The Department of Agricultural, Food, and Resource Economics brings together faculty with expertise in agri-food systems, commodity markets, natural resource economics and business analytics.

Students benefit from applied research centres and campus resources, such as outreach through MSU Extension, the Centre for Regional Food Systems, and established industry partnerships that support internships and capstone placements. The university's location and alumni network offer access to Midwest agricultural enterprises, food processors and policy institutions, while career services and faculty mentoring help translate learning into employment.

Overall, the programme emphasises applied skills, real-world experience and interdisciplinary collaboration, preparing graduates to address commercial and policy challenges in contemporary agricultural and food systems.