Business, society and government have changed immensely in the past decade, and the pace of change is quickening.

 Firms are under relentless competitive pressures to reduce cost and add value. In this new climate, leaders need to be disciplined in critical thinking, commitment and the ability to inspire. They lead their companies into successful business alliances and relationships.

The master's degree requirements in agricultural economics may be completed in one of two ways:

• Students can complete of a minimum of 30 semester credit hours, including preparation of a thesis for which 6 credit hours are awarded. The 30 credit hour program with thesis is structured to prepare students for careers in research or analysis, or to continue into a Ph.D. program.

• Students also have the option of a minimum 36 credit hour program, which requires a paper rather than a thesis. This program allows for flexibility because of its fewer formal requirements. This program is geared to prepare students for careers in public service, commerce, and industry.

Students in both the 30 and 36 credit hour programs are required to take a final oral examination covering the subject matter in the major field and/or thesis material.

Note

• Candidates in the thesis program are required to take a final oral examination covering the thesis and the subject matter in the major field and the minor field when a minor is selected.
• Candidates in the no-thesis program are required to demonstrate evidence of scholarly effort by completing a creative component consisting of a written paper and an oral defense. The written paper will be on a topic provided by the student’s advisory committee relating to the student’s field of study.