M.S. in Agricultural and Resource Economics

2 Years On Campus Masters Program

University of California Davis

Program Overview

The Master of Science in Agricultural and Resource Economics at UC Davis combines advanced economic theory, quantitative analysis and applied research to examine challenges involving agriculture, food markets, natural resources, environmental policy and economic development. The program suits students interested in economic research, policy analysis, agricultural markets and sustainability, offering thesis and non-thesis study options to support different academic and professional goals.

Curriculum Structure

First Year: Students build advanced analytical skills through Microeconomic Analysis I (ARE 204A), Microeconomic Analysis II (ARE 204B) and Applied Econometrics I and II (ARE 256A and ARE 256B). They also take Demand and Market Analysis (ARE 258), developing the ability to apply economic theory and statistical methods to real-world market and policy questions.

Specialised Study: Students choose field courses aligned with their interests, including Development Economics (ARE 214), Economics of Agriculture (ARE 223), Economic Analysis of Resource and Environmental Policies (ARE 275) and Optimization with Economic Applications (ARE 252). These subjects develop expertise in agricultural markets, economic development, resource management and the evaluation of public policy.

Focus Areas

Agricultural economics, resource and environmental economics, economic development, econometrics, market analysis, agricultural policy, natural resource management, applied microeconomics and quantitative research.

Learning Outcomes

Apply advanced economic theory, analyse agricultural and resource markets, use econometric methods to evaluate data, assess environmental and agricultural policies, conduct independent research, interpret economic evidence, evaluate market behaviour and communicate research findings to academic, government and industry audiences.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation)

The program is classified as a STEM-designated degree, reflecting its emphasis on quantitative methods and economic analysis. This designation may be relevant to eligible international students seeking a STEM OPT extension, subject to current immigration rules and individual eligibility. A separate professional accreditation is not specified for the degree.

Reputation (Employability Rankings)

UC Davis's Department of Agricultural and Resource Economics is recognised for research in agricultural economics, economic development, and environmental and natural resource economics. The department reports that its Ph.D. program ranks among the world's leading programs in these fields; this recognition should not be interpreted as a specific ranking for the M.S. degree.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

UC Davis combines rigorous economic theory with quantitative research and applied analysis of agricultural, environmental and resource-related challenges. Students develop skills in econometrics, market analysis and policy evaluation, with opportunities to contribute to faculty research and Cooperative Extension projects. Key learning opportunities include:

Applied Econometrics (ARE 256A and ARE 256B): Apply regression analysis and related quantitative techniques to investigate economic relationships and evaluate real-world data.
Demand and Market Analysis (ARE 258):
Research Thesis: Under Plan I, conduct independe Examine consumer and producer behaviour, market power and empirical approaches to analysing markets.
nt research, develop a research question and communicate findings through a thesis.
Comprehensive Examination: Under Plan II, demonstrate mastery of the program's core economic theory, econometrics and applied coursework.
Cooperative Extension Research: Explore applied research concerning California agriculture, natural resources, environmental challenges and economic development.
Agricultural and Environmental Policy Analysis: Investigate food security, agricultural markets, resource use and the economic effects of public policy.
Interdisciplinary Research: Engage with quantitative approaches that draw on economics, statistics and related fields, depending on research interests and project availability.
Academic Research Resources: Access faculty guidance and departmental academic resources to support research development and advanced economic analysis.

Progression & Future Opportunities

The M.S. in Agricultural and Resource Economics prepares graduates to analyse economic data, evaluate public policy and investigate challenges involving agriculture, markets, sustainability and natural resources. Its combination of economic theory, econometrics and applied research can support careers in government, research organisations, international development, consulting and agricultural industries. Potential career paths include agricultural economist, economic research analyst, policy analyst and environmental economics analyst.

Career Development: UC Davis career resources can help students explore employment opportunities, strengthen professional application materials and prepare for careers in research, policy and industry.
Research Opportunities: Faculty-led projects and Cooperative Extension research can help students develop experience in agricultural markets, resource economics, environmental policy and economic development.
Industry and Government Applications: Graduates can apply economic analysis to agricultural businesses, food systems, public agencies, environmental organisations and international development initiatives.
Employment Statistics and Salaries: A verified employment rate or salary figure specifically for graduates of this M.S. program is not stated in the available official program information.
STEM Designation: The program's STEM classification may offer an additional benefit to eligible international students seeking practical training opportunities in the United States, subject to current immigration regulations.
Graduation Outcomes: Graduates can pursue applied research, economic consulting, policy analysis and analytical roles in public and private organisations. Career opportunities will depend on research experience, quantitative skills and employer requirements.

Further Academic Progression: Graduates can pursue a Ph.D. in Agricultural and Resource Economics, Economics, Environmental Economics or a related discipline. Doctoral study is particularly suitable for students interested in advanced research, university teaching, economic modelling or leadership in policy research. Graduates can also consider a joint M.S./M.B.A. pathway where eligible, combining economic expertise with business and management training.