Monday, November 8, 2010

Agriculture MBA Programs

Agriculture MBA Programs: Overview of Programs

A quick and effective way to learn about the complexities of modern farming would be to get an online agriculture MBA. Choosing to specialize in agriculture through an MBA would let you understand the business environment of this age old industry. The agricultural industry over the years has evolved to a great extent with the agricultural market becoming increasingly competitive in the era of free economies. To be a part of this thriving industry in the long run it is important to be familiar with the business principles and strategies that govern farm management. The agricultural sector still plays a key role in the development of today's economy. Consequently, demand is high for individuals who have a thorough knowledge of the business of agriculture. With the advent of MBA and the various specializations that it offers the study of agriculture has found a place of honor among aspirants who want a specialized MBA.

What is unique about getting an online MBA degree in agriculture? Agriculture today is not only about farming of crops. To learn to take business decisions, planning the budget and managing a number of farms simultaneously are some of the areas of expertise that an online MBA in agriculture aims to inculcate among the students. The ultimate aim for taking up an online MBA that focuses on agriculture is to make agricultural farms not only profitable but also competitive. The rise of corporate owned agricultural farms from individually owned farms is also a reason why specialization in agriculture is becoming sought after for those who are pursuing MBA degrees. The course of an online agriculture MBA stresses on production, distribution and marketing of agricultural products. Economics, finance, business strategy are the main focus areas of the online MBA program.

A Master of Business Administration (MBA) student in the field of agriculture learns the production and distribution process for foods and fibers, as well as related business principles. An agriculture MBA is often referred to as specializing in either agricultural economics or agribusiness.

Master of Business Administration in Agribusiness

Students enrolled in an MBA in Agribusiness program learn high-level business and finance management skills and how to apply such skills to the agricultural sector. Other topics include the latest farm operations management techniques and marketing strategies. These programs require two years to complete, and usually incorporate a research project or thesis.

Education Prerequisites

In general, MBA programs are competitive and have both academic and professional requirements. Work experience is closely examined during the admissions process; a minimum of two years is usually necessary. Additionally, scores from the Graduate Management Admissions Test (GMAT) are considered a key component of the application. Prerequisite courses in the plant and animal sciences, farm management, soil studies and economics may also be required prior to beginning graduate work.

Program Coursework

The MBA in Agribusiness program is comprised of traditional business and finance courses within the core curriculum, though several options focus upon agricultural economics. Specific professional topics include:
  • Agricultural markets
  • Agricultural pricing
  • Agricultural law
  • Futures trading
  • Agricultural economics
  • Farm management
  • Food Policy and Business Environment
  • Food Retail Management
  • Developing an Agribusiness Plan
  • International Agri-food Marketing

Popular Career Options
Graduates have numerous employment options available to them in private corporations and the public sector. Roles may include:
  • Agricultural manager
  • Marketing analyst
  • Bioterrorism consultant
  • Alternative energy consultant
  • Farm Management
  • Agricultural Finance Professional
  • Agricultural Entrepreneurship
  • Agricultural equipment Supplier
  • Trading in Agricultural Commodities

Continuing Education Information

Those with an MBA in Agribusiness who are seeking to continue their education may pursue a Ph.D. in Agribusiness with a specialization in management strategy, managerial economics or a variety of other areas. Most programs heavily emphasize research and graduates often pursue careers in academia. However, those holding a doctorate may also work for the government.

Universities offering Online Agriculture MBA

With the rise of online MBA degrees, several online universities and business schools across the globe have started to provide online agriculture MBA. Some of the well known institutes who have joined the league are:
  • Minnesota school of Business Online Purdue University
  • Robert Gordon University, UK
  • University of Guelph, Canada
  • VirginiaTech College of Agriculture and Life Sciences

Sources and Additional Information:


2 comments:

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