University of Delaware

What you'll study

The programme is built around a core of agricultural sciences and business disciplines, delivered within a four‑year curriculum that blends classroom learning, lab work and applied field experiences. Early years cover foundational subjects such as microeconomics, macroeconomics, college algebra or calculus, introductory plant and animal science, and statistics. Core major modules typically include:

• Agribusiness Management: farm and agribusiness enterprise management, strategic planning and decision‑making for food and fibre businesses.
• Agricultural Finance and Accounting: financial analysis for agricultural operations, cost accounting, budgeting and investment appraisal.
• Marketing and Commodity Markets: agricultural marketing, commodity trading, pricing, and supply and demand analysis.
• Production Systems: fundamentals of crop and livestock production to give managers a working understanding of on‑farm practices and constraints.
• Risk Management and Policy: risk analysis, crop and livestock insurance, agricultural policy and regulation at regional and national levels.
• Supply Chain and Food Systems: logistics, distribution, food safety and value‑chain management from producer to consumer.
• Quantitative and Analytical Tools: applied statistics, econometrics, spatial analysis/GIS applications and use of decision support software.

Students normally complete general education requirements alongside major courses and choose electives or minors in areas such as entrepreneurship, environmental science, sustainable agriculture, or international development. The degree emphasises experiential learning: students undertake laboratory and field practicum, internships with agribusinesses or extension programmes, and a senior capstone or research project that applies business tools to real agricultural problems.

Entry requirements

Entry is based on a completed secondary school qualification (or recognised international equivalent). Applicants are expected to have a strong grounding in mathematics and science: algebra and precalculus are recommended, and courses in biology or chemistry are beneficial. Successful candidates typically demonstrate:

• Good secondary school academic performance, especially in quantitative subjects.
• Evidence of interest in agriculture, business or related extracurricular activities — for example, FFA, 4‑H, farm experience, internships or business competitions.
• For applicants whose first language is not English, proof of English language proficiency through an approved test or qualifying pathway.

The University of Delaware also admits transfer students from community colleges; applicants should check specific articulation agreements and submit college transcripts. Admissions decisions consider the whole application, including recommendations and personal statements describing career goals and relevant experience.

Career prospects

Graduates leave prepared for a wide range of roles across agriculture and the broader food system. Typical career paths include:

• Farm or ranch manager and production supervisor.
• Agribusiness manager, sales or marketing specialist for input suppliers, food processors or distributors.
• Commodity trader or analyst in grain, livestock or soft‑commodity markets.
• Financial analyst, loan officer or risk manager specialising in agricultural lending and insurance.
• Supply chain and logistics coordinator for perishable goods.
• Policy analyst or extension specialist working with government agencies, NGOs or cooperative extension services.
• Entrepreneurship and consultancy in precision agriculture, sustainable food systems or value‑added products.

Many graduates also progress to postgraduate study in agricultural economics, business, environmental management or law, or enter professional training and certification programmes to specialise further.

Why study at University of Delaware

The University of Delaware offers this programme within its College of Agriculture and Natural Resources, combining strong academic teaching with practical, regionally relevant experience. Students benefit from access to on‑campus research facilities and off‑campus research and demonstration sites that support hands‑on learning and applied research in crop and animal systems. The college has established links with local and regional agribusinesses, extension services and industry partners, helping students secure internships and employment.

Small class sizes in upper‑level courses, faculty with applied industry and research experience, and the university’s proximity to Mid‑Atlantic agricultural markets give students exposure to diverse production systems and supply‑chain issues. Career services, alumni networks and cooperative extension resources further support professional development and job placement after graduation.