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Master of Science in Agricultural and Resource Economics
The Master of Science in Agricultural and Resource Economics provides training in fundamental microeconomic theory and econometrics applied to policy-relevant issues in agricultural economics, environmental economics, and natural resource economics.
Students learn to perform applied economic research and prepare for careers in the public and private sectors as analysts, consultants, researchers, and other occupations involving analytical skills.
Program Overview | Curriculum | Application Information | Faculty Research | Objectives and Outcomes | Contact Us
Program Overview
The Master of Science in Agricultural and Resource Economics prepares students to apply microeconomic theory, econometrics, and quantitative methods to policy-relevant issues in agricultural economics, food systems, environmental economics, and natural resource economics.
The program provides a solid foundation in microeconomics and quantitative methods, coupled with direct experience in applied economic research. Completion of the degree implies a mastery of fundamental microeconomic theory and econometrics, with an ability to conduct applied economic research under supervision.
What makes this program unique:
- Training in fundamental microeconomic theory and econometrics
- Applied economic research focused on policy-relevant issues
- Study of agricultural economics, food systems, environmental economics, and natural resource economics
- Preparation for public and private sector careers
- Thesis-based Plan A program
- Foundation for students interested in pursuing doctoral degrees
- Faculty and departmental support for student development, practical experiences, and applied research
Curriculum
The Master of Science in Agricultural and Resource Economics, Plan A consists of 30 credit hours, including the preparation and defense of an original M.S. research thesis.
Plan of Study
Core Courses
- AREC 506 / ECON 506 — Applied Microeconomic Theory — 3 credits
- AREC 507 — Applied Welfare and Policy Analysis — 3 credits
- AREC 535 / ECON 535 — Applied Econometrics — 3 credits
- ECON 501 — Quantitative Methods for Economists — 3 credits
Methods Courses
Students select one of the following:
- AREC 615 — Optimization Methods for Applied Economics — 3 credits
- AREC 635 / ECON 635 — Econometric Theory I — 3 credits
Field Courses
Students select one group from the following for 3–6 credits.
Group A
- AREC 540 / ECON 540 — Environmental and Natural Resource Economics
Group B
- AREC 605 — Agricultural Production and Cost Analysis
- AREC 610 — Agricultural Marketing and Demand Analysis
Electives
- Electives — 3–6 credits
Thesis
- AREC 699 — Thesis — 6 credits
Total Program Credits: 30
Application Information
Students interested in the Master of Science in Agricultural and Resource Economics should review the Agricultural and Resource Economics Graduate Program page and the Graduate School information for program details.
Admission Requirements
Application Deadlines
- Fall Semester: August 1
- Spring Semester: December 15
- Summer Semester: March 15
*Deadlines may vary depending on applicant status.
How to Apply
Students should:
- Review the sequential degree program requirements.
- Complete the SDP application created by the partnering undergraduate and graduate programs.
- Follow application timing and requirements defined by the partnering programs.
- Visit the CSU Graduate School website to learn more about the program.
Tuition & Support
- $643 per credit (online tuition; same rate worldwide)
- Federal financial aid and scholarships may be available
- Additional financial resources can be accessed through CSU Online and the Office of Financial Aid
Student Employment
Graduate assistantships (GTA, GRA, GSA) and hourly positions may be available. Students should contact their advisor and department graduate coordinator for current opportunities.
Faculty and Research
Students in the Master of Science in Agricultural and Resource Economics program work with faculty in agricultural economics, food systems, environmental economics, natural resource economics, agribusiness management and finance, livestock systems, consumer choice, and the economics of water, land, and the environment.
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CSU’s new home for Colorado agriculture, student aspirations and agricultural innovation for global impact.
Objectives and Outcomes
The Master of Science in Agricultural and Resource Economics prepares students to conduct applied economic research, communicate economic analysis, and apply theoretical and quantitative tools to agricultural and natural resource problems.
Program Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion, students will be able to:
- Conduct impactful economic analysis using quantitative tools to solve problems relevant to their sub-discipline specialty.
- Demonstrate competency in the theoretical and quantitative foundations needed to enter and complete a Ph.D. program in applied economics.
- Communicate economic concepts, analysis, and findings in both oral and written forms across a wide range of professional settings.
- Support the teaching of economic theory and methods as applied to agricultural and natural resource problems.
Career Pathways
Graduates pursue roles in:
- Policy Analyst
- Economic Consultant
- Research Analyst
- Public Utilities Manager
- Resource Economist
- Financial Specialist
Related interest areas include:
- Food Systems
- Production Economics
- Agricultural Marketing
- Environmental Economics
- Water Resource Management
- Wildfire Economics
- Climate Change Policy
Contact Us
Ready to learn more about the graduate programs at CSU’s College of Agricutlural Sciences? Connect with a program advisor today.
Grad Layout Update Test Form
Come to the Table
Become part of our agricultural community and experience hands-on learning while building relationships. Bring your creativity, ideas and lived experiences. Leave with the confidence to collectively solve the grand challenges of sustaining our natural resources and feeding the world.
CONTACT
301 University Ave.
Colorado State University
Fort Collins, CO 80523-1101
Phone: 970-491-6274
Fax: 970-491-4895
Dean’s Office
Employment | Equal Opportunity | Privacy Statement | Accessibility Statement | Disclaimer
© 2022 Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado 80523 USA
Come to the Table
Become part of our agricultural community and experience hands-on learning while building relationships. Bring your creativity, ideas and lived experiences. Leave with the confidence to collectively solve the grand challenges of sustaining our natural resources and feeding the world.
CONTACT
301 University Ave.
Colorado State University
Fort Collins, CO 80523-1101
Phone: 970-491-6274
Fax: 970-491-4895
Dean’s Office
Employment | Equal Opportunity | Privacy Statement | Accessibility Statement | Disclaimer
© 2022 Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado 80523 USA
Come to the Table
Become part of our agricultural community and experience hands-on learning while building relationships. Bring your creativity, ideas and lived experiences. Leave with the confidence to collectively solve the grand challenges of sustaining our natural resources and feeding the world.
CONTACT
301 University Ave.
Colorado State University
Fort Collins, CO 80523-1101
Phone: 970-491-6274
Fax: 970-491-4895
Dean’s Office
Employment | Equal Opportunity | Privacy Statement | Accessibility Statement | Disclaimer
© 2022 Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado 80523 USA
Come to the Table
Become part of our agricultural community and experience hands-on learning while building relationships. Bring your creativity, ideas and lived experiences. Leave with the confidence to collectively solve the grand challenges of sustaining our natural resources and feeding the world.
CONTACT
301 University Ave.
Colorado State University
Fort Collins, CO 80523-1101
Phone: 970-491-6274
Fax: 970-491-4895
Dean’s Office
Employment | Equal Opportunity | Privacy Statement | Accessibility Statement | Disclaimer
© 2022 Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado 80523 USA