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Agri business is a valuable extension of a standard business degree
in many markets, and offers students a chance to learn about
public policy, business models, agribusiness marketing, and the
basics of agricultural economics. Agricultural business and
economics help to organize business processes and procedures for
agribusiness firms in accordance with federal and state
guidelines. Students completing an agri business degree may also
receive hands on training through a cooperative work placement
program or internship as part of their educational career. Each
degree program can continue into graduate studies or
specializations for research.
Why Earn an Agri Business Degree?
Agricultural business professionals can pursue a wide range of careers in
Agricultural Economics, Agricultural Business and Business Administration. Even
though a standard business degree offers a strong foundation for a career in
this growing industry, the specializations with an agribusiness degree enable
students to learn about natural resource economics, production management, farm
and ranch management, and commodity trading. Students who wish to pursue a
specialization beyond the standard degree program can choose areas
of agricultural management, international agriculture, or agricultural supply.
What Is Agricultural Economics and Business?
Agricultural economics takes into account three critical areas; these include
finance, accounting, and supply control management. Many basic business
principles are used to understand the scope of agricultural economics, and
students with an agribusiness degree can work in a position where they are
required to extend decision-making and problem solving in the areas of
agricultural production. Agricultural economics requires the ability to read
reports, conduct statistical analysis, make effective decisions based on
patterns and trends, and design strategic business models.
Agricultural business allows students to enter management levels within the
industry. They may be in charge of food systems regulation, environmental
policymaking, agricultural equipment production, along with general agricultural
management procedures. Agricultural business combines basic management training
with specialized studies in horticulture, trade, and food supply.
Skills Needed for a Agricultural Business Career
A successful career requires basic business skills, as
well as the ability to understand systems and processes within the
industry. For example, agricultural supply training provides students with
information on the retail and wholesale aspects of trading; this may lead to
agri-business sales, management, or learning emergency response. Agricultural
business and management training teaches students how to operate successful
farms and stay ahead in the industry by making use of the latest developments in
technology. An agricultural economics career also focuses on the challenges of
protecting natural resources - all while making the business
profitable.
Key skills needed for a successful career include:
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Strong communication skills
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Agricultural mathematics
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Strong decision-making skills
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Understanding systems-based thinking and concepts
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Direct application of basic mathematics and accounting principles
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Computer skills
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Proficiency in marketing and finance
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Understanding the importance of natural resources
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Strategic planning
Career Options With an Agribusiness Degree
An agri business degree can open up multiple opportunities in the field of
agricultural business, agricultural economics, and related enterprises within
the field. The most common types of positions
include:
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Agricultural Production Management
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Food Systems Analyst
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Agricultural Marketing
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Agricultural Economics Statistician
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Natural Resource Protection Management
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Public Policy Management
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Agricultural Finance Analyst or Management
An agribusiness degree can lead to work with government programs and
agencies, community cooperatives, philanthropic organizations, food supply
firms, financial service firms, or marketing firms.
Programs and Courses in Agricultural Business and Economics
Common programs and courses include:
- Animal
Science
- Communications
- Agricultural Business Management
- Natural
Resource Management
- Food
Supply and Statistics
- Agricultural Finance
- Farming
Equipment, Production, and Supply
Agri Business Degree Requirements
Both an associate's degree program and a bachelors degree are available through
most colleges and universities. An agribusiness
degree can be earned through the School of Agriculture and/or an extension of
the School of Business and related departments. Students may also have a chance
to choose a concentration or specialization such as:
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Agricultural Education
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Plant and Soil Science
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Animal and Poultry Science
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Agricultural Production and Manufacturing
Most degree programs include a cooperative or internship
requirement. This enables students to work side-by-side with an agricultural
business professional, where they can gain significant
experience before entering the field. Today's competitive job marketplace
requires students to learn how to formulate public policies, keep with
technology and trends, and make effective decisions. Learning how to maximize
natural resources is another fast-growing area, and offers many
opportunities for students interested in policymaking and public welfare.
Employment Prospects and Career Outlook with an Agri Business Degree
Employment prospects look promising,
as the technological and business developments of the industry demand skilled
professionals within the field. Agricultural research, especially in the fields
of agricultural economics and agricultural business policy, is especially
valuable to the government sector and both public and private firms. Many farms
and large-scale operations need professionals who can help build
and lead their organization in the global market. With the increasing costs
associated with trade and marketing within the industry, skilled industry
leaders are becoming even more valuable.
Qualified professionals with an
agribusiness degree can expect to earn between $45,239 and $70,140.
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