Thesis:
The Thesis Option requires a minimum of 32 hours of graduate credit, including a thesis based upon original research work. The final oral examination covers both the coursework and thesis.
Course work includes:
- Microeconomic Theory
- Macroeconomic Theory
- Econometrics
- Analysis and Forecasting
- 6 credit hours of courses in Agricultural Economics
- 8 credit hours of research
- 3 credit hours of electives
The thesis option is recommended for those considering furthering their graduate studies or those who plan to enter careers focusing on research and analysis.
Non-thesis:
The Non-Thesis Option requires a minimum of 36 credit hours. Non-thesis students must complete a professional paper which shows evidence of an ability to complete an applied research project, including defining the project’s objectives, analyzing the problem, and writing the results in acceptable manuscript form. The final oral examination covers coursework and the professional paper.
Course work includes:
- Microeconomic Theory
- Macroeconomic Theory
- Econometrics
- Analysis and Forecasting
- 9 credit hours of courses in Agricultural Economics
- 3 credit hours of professional study
- 12 credit hours of electives
Graduates with the non-thesis option have careers in Agri-Finance, real estate and appraisal, commodity trading, and management positions.