INFORMATION FOR PROSPECTIVE STUDENTS
Discover more by completing your agricultural economics graduate degree at purdue
The agricultural economics curriculum at Purdue University is in the tradition of the Land Grant College philosophy: knowledge for the improvement of the human condition. Sound judgment, rigorous analysis and ability to define and solve problems are the goals of the professional agricultural economist. Our program endeavors to create a challenging environment of scholarship, creativity and freedom of intellectual inquiry. Our graduates receive superb training in their specialty areas while also learning how to solve social and business problems.
About our programs & students
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.
Facilities for graduate study at Purdue’s Department of Agricultural Economics are outstanding. Graduate students receive office space in the Krannert Building where faculty members of the Departments of Agricultural Economics and Economics have their offices. Classrooms, the Management and Economics Library, and computer facilities area all located in the Krannert Building. This compact arrangement enables students to use their time efficiently and enhances opportunities for dialogue among faculty and graduate students.
Students come to Purdue with varied backgrounds. About 55 percent of the department's graduate students are U.S. citizens and come from all parts of the country. Included in this group are some who have had extensive experience overseas in the U.S. Peace Corps, in agriculture, agribusiness, and government agencies. Many transfer to Purdue from other land-grant institutions; others come from urban backgrounds, have attended liberal arts schools, or have returned to school after years of business experience. About 45 percent of the department's graduate students come from outside the United States. The department's graduate students usually represent about 25 countries. This rich mixture of student backgrounds contributes significantly to the breadth of students' professional training.
Students earning advanced degrees at Purdue have done well in the professional job market. Recent Ph.D. graduates have secured faculty appointments at various U.S. and foreign universities. Several graduates have taken positions with the USDA and other federal government agencies. Students from other lands often return to positions with high levels of responsibility in their home countries.
We have compiled a list of frequently asked questions that we receive from prospective graduate students.
Current graduate students share their experiences in the AgEcon Department.
Our graduate programs leading towards master's and doctor of philosophy degrees in Agricultural Economics are currently accepting applications for admissions.
Financial aid is available for study towards both the master's and Ph.D. degrees.
Students can specialize their studies in several areas including: Agribusiness Management and Marketing; International Trade and International Development; Applied Economics Quantitative Methods; and Resources, Environment and Sustainable Production.
Students completing the program of study towards a master's degree will receive instruction in intermediate economic theory, quantitative methods and policy analysis, as well as elective courses in their area of interest.
Take advantage of our unique, first-of-its-kind MJ-MS in Agricultural Economics to drive innovation and design solutions in the increasingly complex and emerging agricultural law field! This dual degree program consists of the Master of Jurisprudence (MJ) and Master of Science (MS) in Agricultural Economics, bringing together expertise from two highly ranked institutions (Purdue University and IU McKinney) to provide a unique educational opportunity in agricultural law.
The dual MS-MBA program is an integrated, degree-granting program of advanced study in management and is focused on the unique management challenges faced by managers with food and agribusiness firms. It is aimed to further develop the managerial abilities of future leaders in the food and agricultural industries featuring two world leaders in management and agribusiness- Indiana University's Kelley School of Business and Purdue University's College of Agriculture.
For students looking obtain a high profile marketing and management position in the Agribusiness sector.
Students completing the program of study towards a Ph.D. degree will receive instruction in advanced economic theory, quantitative methods, and practical application of theory and methods, as well as elective courses in their area of interest.
Students come to Purdue’s Department of Agricultural Economics from around the world with 40-50 percent of our graduate students coming from outside the United States.
Here is a list of recent MS and PhD student research topics, advisors and job placements.
The Ag Econ Graduate Student Organization (Ag Econ GSO) is a graduate student-lead initiative that works to bring the Ag Econ student body together; to promote academic and social communication among all Ag Econ students; to provide a forum in which Ag Econ students can voice their concerns and expectations; and to act as a liaison between the Ag Econ student body, administration, and faculty members.