Brookings Main Campus
Prepare to be a decision maker impacting regional, national, and global economies.
The agricultural economics specialization combines core economics classes with in-depth analysis of local, national and global agricultural, food and environmental issues. Coursework focuses on topics relating to agricultural research, government policy, international trade and development, environmental research and analysis. Graduates tend to work as an extension specialist, commodity broker, ag statistician or go into graduate studies.
Is it for you?
This program will be a good fit if you:
- Enjoy math and working with numbers.
- Involved in 4-H, FFA or other agriculture-related activities.
- Interested in agriculture and environmental policy analysis.
- Enjoy research and theory.
- Interested in graduate or law school.
Career Opportunities
- Agricultural finance
- Commodity risk management
- Graduate study
- Policy/international trade
- Production agriculture
Recent Employers
- Farm Credit Services of America
- First Dakota National Bank
- South Dakota Governor's Office of Economics Development (GOED)
- U.S. Department of Agriculture Farm Service Agency
- Advantage Land Company
Internship Opportunities
- Crop insurance intern
- Farm marketing consultant intern
- Grain origination intern
- Loan officer intern
- Accounting intern
Suggested Certificates
Suggested Minors
Suggested Accelerated Programs
Clubs and Organizations
- Economics Club
- National Agri-Marketing Association (NAMA)
- Investment Club
- Finance, Insurance and Real Estate (FIRE)
Undecided or still deciding on a major and future career?
If you are uncertain about your major and have questions about career planning, you are not alone. Choosing a major or career can be a very difficult decision. The exploratory studies program may be a good fit if you are unsure of your major and career focus. Entering the university in the exploratory studies program will help you gain confidence and valuable insights on majors and minors available at SDSU and future career choices.
In addition, FOCUS 2 Career, a self-guided assessment, education and career planning program, will help you reflect on your values, interests, personality traits and skills to provide valuable insight as you explore major and career choices. SDSU students may access FOCUS 2 Career by using their student email and password. After completing FOCUS 2 Career, you may find it helpful to discuss your results with a career coach in the Office of Career Development.