Differences Among Majors

A degree in economics provides a foundation of finance, banking, business, and economics to enable graduates to choose from a diverse set of career paths where they can improve lives, resolve issues and affect policy.

Agricultural Business, Business Economics, and Economics students all develop skills in problem-solving, critical thinking, economic reasoning, leadership, communication, and innovative thinking. They find jobs in agricultural marketing, finance, business, or government. Others go on to study law.

So what are the differences among these majors? Read the summary below to help you discover the best path to fulfill your goals.

Agricultural Business

Business Economics Economics

The Agricultural Business major prepares students for advanced studies and for careers in agricultural finance, management in agricultural supply and marketing industries, commodity merchandising and research, business research and management, farm and ranch operations, commercial farm management and appraisal, sales and marketing, reporting and public relations, extension, international activities and government service.

The Business Economics major is a blend of both business and economics. Majors will be able to use both business and economic reasoning to think critically and address complex issues using tools and decision-making models of economics, business, math, and statistics to make decisions and communicate effectively. Economics teaches the abilities to think and reason clearly, to address complex issues using tools and decision-making models. It helps students develop understanding of the interaction of technology, human activity, and the environment. Students learn to apply economic concepts to make optimal choices among economic alternatives and communicate them to other professionals and the public.

Career Opportunities

  • Agricultural Finance
  • Commodity Merchandiser
  • Appraiser
  • Market Analyst
  • Public Relations
  • Research

Career Opportunities

  • Business analyst
  • Finance

 

Career Opportunities

  • Private Industry
  • Federal, State or Local Government
  • Business Management
  • Finance
  • Banking
  • Law School, Graduate School

Classes you'll take: Applied economics classes including:

  • Ag Markets
  • Farm/Small Business Management
  • Ag Finance
  • Ag, Food, Trade Policy

Classes you'll take: Business-focused classes including:

  • Money and Banking
  • Industrial Organization
  • Managerial Economics

Classes you'll take: Theoretical classes including:

  • Microeconomics
  • Macroeconomics
  • Econometrics
  • Labor Economics

Ready to join the Department of Economics?

Apply now or contact us to request more information about course requirements and our undergraduate programs!