Master of Science in Agricultural & Applied Economics Professional Option

2 Years Blended Bachelors Program

University of Wisconsin Madison

Program Overview

The Master of Science in Agricultural and Applied Economics Professional Option at the University of Wisconsin–Madison is an accelerated, career-focused program that combines economic reasoning, data analysis, econometrics, and professional communication to prepare students for analytical roles across business, agriculture, government, and consulting. The STEM-designated program offers a practical pathway for students interested in data-driven decision-making, agribusiness management, economic research, and quantitative analysis, with opportunities to gain industry experience through a professional practicum or internship.

Curriculum Structure

The program requires 30 credits and is typically completed in approximately 15 months, although the department outlines flexible completion options. The curriculum includes two pathways: Course Plan A, focused on applied economics and quantitative analysis, and Course Plan B, focused on agribusiness management.

Year 1

Students develop their economic and analytical foundation through courses such as AAE 635: Applied Microeconomic Theory, AAE 636: Applied Econometrics I, and AAE 637: Applied Econometrics II. Students following the agribusiness pathway may take AAE 625: Agribusiness Economics and Management and AAE 719: Applied Business Economics, while AAE 720: Seminar in Quantitative and Applied Economics supports professional and analytical development.

Year 2

Students advance their technical expertise through AAE 718: Data Science for Agricultural and Applied Economics, applying data-driven methods to economic and business challenges. They complete AAE 724: Practicum for Applied Economists and AAE 723: Professional Development for Applied Economists, with AAE 899: Graduate Practical Training/Internship available as part of the recommended course plans, alongside approved electives in areas such as commodity markets, environmental economics, agricultural finance, and machine learning.

Focus Areas

Applied economics, econometrics, data science, quantitative analysis, agribusiness management, agricultural finance, commodity markets, international development, environmental and natural resource economics, energy economics, economic consulting, business analytics.

Learning Outcomes

Apply economic theory to real-world business and agricultural challenges.
Use econometric and statistical techniques to analyse economic data.
Apply data science and machine-learning methods to decision-making.
Evaluate agricultural markets, business performance, and resource allocation.
Communicate complex economic findings through professional reports and presentations.
Develop practical solutions through applied research and professional projects.
Demonstrate analytical, problem-solving, and professional communication skills.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation)

STEM designation: The program is STEM-designated, supporting eligible international graduates who meet applicable requirements to apply for the STEM Optional Practical Training extension in the United States. The department also partners with the National Association for Business Economics, and students may pursue the Certified Business Economist (CBE) credential. This credential is optional and is not automatic upon graduation.

Reputation (Employability Rankings)

Career preparation: The department identifies economic consulting, agribusiness, data analysis, businesses, nonprofit development organizations, and government as potential employment sectors. The department states that its broader Agricultural and Applied Economics programs are nationally well regarded; however, the MSPO itself is not separately ranked in the department's published FAQ. A program-specific graduate employment rate is not stated.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At the University of Wisconsin-Madison, the Master of Science in Agricultural & Applied Economics Professional Option offers students a unique opportunity to gain practical skills that are essential for success in the field. The program emphasizes experiential learning, allowing students to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world settings. With access to state-of-the-art facilities and resources, students can engage in hands-on projects, collaborate with peers, and connect with industry professionals.

Here are some key aspects of the experiential learning opportunities available in this program:

- Research Facilities: Students can utilize the Agricultural Research Stations, which provide access to diverse agricultural environments for field studies and experiments.
- Internships: The program encourages internships with local businesses, government agencies, and non-profits, allowing students to gain valuable work experience and professional connections.
- Software Tools: Students are trained in industry-standard software such as R, SAS, and STATA for data analysis, as well as GIS tools for spatial analysis.
- Group Projects: Collaborative projects are a core component of the curriculum, fostering teamwork and problem-solving skills as students tackle real-world economic issues.
- Field Trips: The program includes field trips to farms, agribusinesses, and research facilities, providing students with firsthand insights into the agricultural sector.
- Libraries and Resources: Access to the University of Wisconsin-Madison's extensive library system, including the Steenbock Memorial Library, which specializes in agricultural and life sciences.
- Institutes and Centers: Students can engage with the Center for Dairy Profitability and the Food Systems Research Group, which focus on applied research and outreach in agricultural economics.

Progression & Future Opportunities

The Master of Science in Agricultural & Applied Economics Professional Option at the University of Wisconsin-Madison prepares graduates for a variety of impactful careers in the agricultural and economic sectors. With a strong emphasis on practical skills and real-world applications, students can expect to find themselves in roles such as Agricultural Economist, Policy Analyst, Market Research Analyst, or Economic Consultant. The program equips you with the tools needed to analyze complex economic issues and make informed decisions that can drive positive change in the industry.

Here’s how the University of Wisconsin-Madison supports your journey toward a successful career:

- Career Services: The university offers dedicated career counseling, resume workshops, and interview preparation through the Career Exploration and Planning (CEP) office, ensuring you are well-prepared for the job market.
- Employment Statistics: Graduates of the program have a high employment rate, with many securing positions within six months of graduation. The average starting salary for graduates in this field is around $60,000, with potential for growth as you gain experience.
- University–Industry Partnerships: The program has strong ties with organizations such as the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection and various agricultural cooperatives, providing students with networking opportunities and internships that can lead to job placements.
- Accreditation Value: The program is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB), ensuring that your degree holds value in the job market and meets high educational standards.
- Graduation Outcomes: Alumni have gone on to work for leading firms and government agencies, contributing to policy development and economic analysis, which speaks to the program's effectiveness in preparing students for the workforce.

Further Academic Progression: After completing the MS in Agricultural & Applied Economics, you may choose to further your studies by pursuing a Ph.D. in Agricultural and Applied Economics or related fields. This advanced degree can open doors to academic positions, research roles, and higher-level consultancy opportunities, allowing you to contribute to the field at a deeper level. Additionally, you could explore specialized certifications or professional development courses to enhance your expertise and career prospects.