College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences
Agricultural Economics (M.S.)
College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences
Agricultural Economics (M.S.)
Turn Data into Decisions: Launch Your Career Career in Agricultural Economics at NMSU
The Master of Science in Agricultural Economics program at New Mexico State University equips students with rigorous training in economic theory, quantitative analysis, and applied research. Ideal for those holding degrees in agriculture, environmental or general economics, agribusiness, or related fields, this interdisciplinary program — hosted by the Departments of Agricultural Economics and Agricultural Business and Economics and International Business — prepares future leaders to address challenges in agricultural production, natural resource management, environmental policy, and food systems.
Through core coursework in micro/macro theory, production economics, and econometrics, alongside electives like international trade, commodity markets, agribusiness management, and resource policy, students gain the expertise to evaluate and solve real-world economic issues. Graduates emerge with the analytical skills needed for careers in industry, government agencies (USDA, EPA, USAID, BLM), NGOs, or further academic research.
Admission Deadlines
March 1 (fall admission) and November 1 (spring admission)
- Total credits: 33
Delivery Format
In-person
Career Pathways
Graduates of the Master of Science in Agricultural Economics program at New Mexico State University (NMSU) gain a robust set of analytical, economic, and decision-making skills tailored to the complexities of agriculture, natural resources, and food systems.
- Senior agricultural economist
- International development economist
- Director of rural development programs
- Lead market analyst
- Senior food security analyst
Degree questions, answered
Have questions about the Master of Science in Agricultural Economics? Fill out our inquiry form.
Why choose a M.S.in Agricultural Economics at NMSU?
Choosing NMSU’s MS-AEEC means investing in a master’s program that balances rigorous theory with real-world applicability. Here’s why it stands out:
- Strong Core plus Flexible Electives — The curriculum begins with economic fundamentals (micro, macro, econometrics, production economics), then gives you flexibility to focus on what matters to you: trade, agribusiness, resource policy, marketing, or environmental economics.
- Applied Research and Practical Skills — With opportunities for thesis-based research, internships or applied projects, you’ll build hands-on experience, making you job-ready upon graduation.
- Wide Industry and Policy Relevance — Your training applies to agriculture, natural resources, food systems, commodities, environment, trade, and more — offering flexibility to pivot across sectors depending on your interests
- Strong Foundation for Advanced Study — If you aspire to a Ph.D. or roles in research and academia, the program offers rigorous preparation in economic theory and econometrics, making you well-prepared for further graduate work or analytical roles.|
- Legacy and Expertise in Agriculture and Resource Economics — NMSU’s department draws on broad expertise in agriculture, water and natural resources, trade, and agribusiness — giving you a breadth of perspectives and mentorship for complex global challenges.
No GRE Required**
We’re removing barriers to graduate education, which is why we don’t require the GRE.
Completion of the Master of Science degree in agricultural economics requires completion of a minimum of 33 graduate credit hours. 21 of the credits must have one of the following three prefixes: AEEC, ECON, or ECDV. 24 of the credits must be associated with course numbers greater than 500/5000. Prospective graduate students must have at least a 3.0 undergraduate GPA.
**Students with a GPA less than 3.25 must complete the GRE or the GMAT exam.
Take classes like:
- RGSC 509 - Approaches to Rangeland Research
- AEEC 5120 - Microeconomic Theory
- AEEC 5130 - Macroeconomic Theory
- BFIN 511 - Financial Derivative Markets
- AEEC 5140 - Agricultural Policy
Ready to take the next step?
Request Information
Scholarships and Financial Aid
At NMSU, we strive to offer competitively priced tuition to keep your tuition costs affordable. If you need financial aid, we’re ready to work with you to determine the best ways to finance your education.
Financial assistance includes loans, grants, and scholarship opportunities. To apply, use NMSU’s convenient Scholar Dollar$ one-stop scholarship application, which serves all students in the NMSU system.
NMSU students are also eligible for loans and grants. The first step in applying for financial aid is to complete a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Learn more about financial aid opportunities at NMSU.
Contact Financial Aid
Phone: 1-888-729-6678
Email: financialaid@nmsu.edu
Accreditation
New Mexico State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, an institutional accreditation agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. Specialized accreditation from other accrediting agencies is also granted for some programs. NMSU’s accreditation ensures that your education meets high-quality standards and that your credits are transferable.