About
Agricultural Economics is the study of how societies use available resources to meet the needs of people. Agriculture represents the single largest use of the earth's resources—a major driving force in the world's economy. Agricultural economists study agriculture from a business context which involves where products are being consumed, developed, financed, grown, marketed, processed, regulated, researched, taxed and transported.
- 4 year degree
- Full-time program
- You can enter this program directly from high school
- You can begin this program off-campus
What you will learn
You will examine agriculture issues of environmental quality, food safety, management of biotechnology and globalization from a business context. You will study a supply chain perspective of science, technology, production practice, product handling, product marketing systems and uses for Saskatchewan-produced grain.
You will also learn about natural resource use from the management and policy perspective; problems affecting Western Canadian agriculture; and farm and agricultural business operations management.
A first-year schedule sample
Although there is a great deal of overlap between first year courses for most AgBio programs, it is important to consult the Course and Program Catalogue and contact an academic advisor for information about course selection prior to registration. Here's an example of what a first year in the degree program might look like:
| Course | Description |
|---|---|
Fall Term |
|
| AGRC 111 | Discovery in Plant and Soil Sciences |
| AREC 220 | History of Indigenous Agriculture in Canada |
| BIOL 120 | The Nature of Life |
| CHEM 112 | General Chemistry I: Structure Bonding and Properties of Materials |
| ECON 111 | Introductory Microeconomics |
Winter Term |
|
| AGRC 112 | Animal Agriculture and Food Science |
| AGRC 113 | Agri Food Issues and Institutions |
| BIOL 121 | The Diversity of Life |
| ECON 114 | Introductory Macroeconomics |
| GEOG 130* | Environment Health and Planning |
* These are elective courses. You'll have a number of courses to choose between.
The Course and Program Catalogue has the complete and official listing of required classes and their descriptions for this program.
Here are just a few of the classes you take while you complete this degree:
AREC 322: Agricultural Finance
An introduction to investment feasibility analysis, business finance and risk theory. Considerable attention is given to developing spreadsheet applications including investment feasibility analysis, bid price models, machine replacements, leasing versus buying and business portfolio/diversification applications.
AREC 342: Industrial Organization of Agricultural Markets
Describes the current structure of the agricultural industry as well as any changes taking place. Analytical methods including pricing models, measures of market structure, and game theory are developed to help understand and assess firm and industry behavior. Various empirical perspectives and linkages to theory are also introduced. This knowledge is used to examine topical issues like price discrimination, advertising, auctions, cartels and vertical integration/mergers as practiced by firms or industries associated with the agricultural sector.
AREC 315: Application of Microeconomic Theory to Agriculture
A calculus-based treatment of microeconomic theory as it applies to optimal resource allocation in agriculture, individual consumer choice, and the behaviour of competitive markets.
Career skills
You will graduate with excellent industry-endorsed scientific training and a foundation of marketable career skills. Our strong ties with industry and our reputation for producing well-rounded, quality graduates means that many businesses look here first when hiring employees.
Small class sizes
AgBio offers a setting that combines the advantages of a full-scale university with the benefits of a small, specialized program. The small class sizes in third and fourth year and supportive atmosphere allows you to get to know your instructors and fellow students, and to build a network of personal and business contacts.
Research
We are committed to finding solutions to sustainably feed a hungry and growing world. Our five departments provide a foundation for our broad array of research activities, both basic and applied. We have over a century of innovative products and practices that have transformed the world.
Opportunities to get involved
AgBio has one of the campus’s most active and spirited student bodies. There are several student clubs in the college to join to enhance your university experience.
Collaborative environment
Our faculty and researchers actively collaborate across the university, as well as nationally and internationally. We have created strong, productive partnerships with numerous governments, private enterprises, producer groups, research centres, and industry associations to develop a sophisticated network for applied science, business and policy development. Outreach, technology transfer and information sharing is an important part our research.
Graduates of degree programs in the College of AgBio are eligible for Professional Agrologist (P.Ag.) membership in the Saskatchewan Institute of Agrologists, allowing them to engage in the practise of Agrology.
Careers
The job market for economists is remarkably consistent - regardless of economic ups and downs, experts are always in demand. Graduates with Agricultural Economics training are actively recruited into the job market, finding positions locally, nationally and internationally in
- agriculture policy analysis
- market analyst
- business management
- intellectual property
- international development and trade
- marketing
- natural resource and environmental economics
- price analysis and community development
As well, the College of Agriculture and Bioresources has strong ties with industry and a reputation for producing well-rounded, quality graduates means that many businesses turn here first when recruiting employees.
Graduates are eligible to receive P.Ag. status for practise in the profession of agrology.
Tuition estimates
| Canadian students | International students | |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition | $8,113 | $39,267 |
| Student fees | $1,121 | $1,121 |
| Books | $1,500 | $1,500 |
| Total | $10,734 | $41,888 |
Tuition will vary depending on the type and number of classes you take in a year. This estimate reflects a typical amount you could expect to pay in your first year if you enroll in a full course load, the maximum number of courses allowed (2024-2025 Canadian dollar rates).
Student fees are used to fund specific student benefits, including health, vision and dental coverage, a bus pass, recreational programs and fitness centre access.
The cost of books and supplies varies widely depending on the courses you choose. It is recommended that you budget between $1,500-$2,500 per year.
Program options
These Bachelor of Science in Agriculture (B.S.A.) degrees in Agricultural Economics are offered by the University of Saskatchewan's College of Agriculture and Bioresources:
To decide which option is the right fit, consult with an academic advisor in the college when you begin your studies.
Admission requirements and deadlines
Deadlines
Ready to apply?
Create an admissions account and start your application today. When you are ready to submit your application, you will be assessed a non-refundable application fee of $120 CAD.
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