Where appropriate, case studies will be used extensively to illustrate and demonstrate applications of these tools. Thus, industry issues can be explored concurrently with the teaching of a basic set of business tools. The specialization core focuses on the unique aspects and issues facing agribusiness industries. Subjects include strategic management and business policy in an ever-changing, globalized industry, environmental issues and their impact on agribusiness, and the impact of government policy on agribusiness. The importance of written and verbal communications and formal presentations is recognized in all courses.
Approved electives allow students to tailor their studies to fit their own interests and goals.
The electives will range from examining strategies for agribusiness firms to maintain and increase their competitive position in a globalized market, to effective strategies for dealing with erratic prices and varying yields on the farm. Students may choose from a number of different courses from across the university to increase their breadth of knowledge and understanding. The project paper will be a capstone project for all students. It will be the equivalent of a two-semester course, taken in the second and third semesters of the program. The subject and content will be jointly determined by students and their advisory committees.