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Agricultural & Applied Economics: Professional Option MS

Master of Science in Agricultural & Applied Economics

Taylor Hall on UW-Madison campus

The University of Wisconsin–Madison’s Master of Science in Agricultural and Applied Economics: Professional Option is a 15-month program that trains students to meet the data industry’s demands for quantitatively-skilled analysts and managers.


Is this program right for you?

The Master of Science in Agricultural and Applied Economics: Professional Option’s curriculum features three semesters and one summer term of core course offerings in econometrics, micro-economic theory, and professional development, along with a capstone practicum class leading to a professional report. Students also take electives to pursue specific interests of their choice. Students with a variety of undergraduate majors can apply to the program; previous coursework in economics (intermediate microeconomics) and math (Calculus I) are required prerequisites.

While the accelerated master’s program focuses on key themes of data analysis, applied economic intuition, and professional development, it retains enough flexibility for students to pursue individual interests in our major fields of specialty to pursue their interests in development, food and agriculture, commodity, energy, and environmental economics. Students will be well prepared to enter the professional workforce in both the U.S. and abroad in data-intensive and quantitatively focused jobs in economic consulting, business, agribusiness, non-profit organizations focused on development, and governmental sectors.

The Agricultural and Applied Economics program partners with the National Association of Business (NABE), allowing our students the option of completing NABE’s Certificate in Business Economics in conjunction with our master’s. This noncredit certificate enables students to sit for NABE’s certifying exam. The optional certificate provides a verification of Applied Economics students’ knowledge in the field of economics and data analytics. Additional coursework is required for this certificate.

Is this program right for you?

The Master of Science in Agricultural and Applied Economics: Professional Option’s curriculum features three semesters and one summer term of core course offerings in econometrics, micro-economic theory, and professional development, along with a capstone practicum class leading to a professional report. Students also take electives to pursue specific interests of their choice. Students with a variety of undergraduate majors can apply to the program; previous coursework in economics (intermediate microeconomics) and math (Calculus I) are required prerequisites.

While the accelerated master’s program focuses on key themes of data analysis, applied economic intuition, and professional development, it retains enough flexibility for students to pursue individual interests in our major fields of specialty to pursue their interests in development, food and agriculture, commodity, energy, and environmental economics. Students will be well prepared to enter the professional workforce in both the U.S. and abroad in data-intensive and quantitatively focused jobs in economic consulting, business, agribusiness, non-profit organizations focused on development, and governmental sectors.

The Agricultural and Applied Economics program partners with the National Association of Business (NABE), allowing our students the option of completing NABE’s Certificate in Business Economics in conjunction with our master’s. This noncredit certificate enables students to sit for NABE’s certifying exam. The optional certificate provides a verification of Applied Economics students’ knowledge in the field of economics and data analytics. Additional coursework is required for this certificate.

Admissions requirements

All applicants must:

  • Have a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution.
  • Have a minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0.
  • Submit GRE scores from within the previous five years using code 1846.
  • Submit evidence of English language proficiency, if applicable. The required proficiency scores are: TOEFL IBT 92, PBT 580; or IELTS 7.0.

Application materials required:

  • Online application
  • Resume/CV
  • Statement of purpose
  • Transcripts
  • Two letters of recommendation

Connect with us

Current Events: Environmental Remediation & Management

April 02
noon-12:30 p.m.
Join the Master of Science in Environmental Remediation & Management program staff as they discuss current events impacting the environment and how recent program graduates are effecting change in their new positions.
Register for Current Events: Environmental Remediation & Management

Meet the Program Director: Engineering Management

April 11
noon-12:30 p.m.
Join Program Director Heather Smith for an in-depth conversation about the Engineering Management MS program including curriculum, application process and potential career paths.
Register for Meet the Program Director: Engineering Management

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Program highlights

  • The Agricultural and Applied Economics program is accelerated, so you can finish your master’s degree in just 15 months.
  • We recognize the importance of teaching not only valuable job and problem-solving skills, but professional work skills as well. That’s why we offer professional development opportunities, so you can sharpen your communication and management abilities.
  • Our program was designed directly with industry demands in mind. We created our courses in response to the surge in demand for quantitative-skilled analysts and data managers in fields across the agricultural and environmental spectrum.

How you'll learn

  • 15 months of full-time study on campus to earn your degree.
  • Complete a practicum course in the fall of year 2, integrating all aspects of the program.
  • Develop technical problem-solving skills while simultaneously building professional skills through the program.

Sample curriculum

Year 1 Fall

  • Microeconomics: Theory to practice
  • Applied Econometric Analysis I
  • Writing and Speaking for Applied Economists
  • Various electives

Year 1 Spring

  • Applied Econometrics Analysis II
  • Risk Analysis
  • Seminar in Quantitative and Applied Economics
  • Various electives

Year 1 Summer

  • Machine Learning in Applied Economic Analysis

Year 2 Fall

  • Professional Development for Applied Economists
  • AAEMS- PO Practicum
  • Various electives

Job outlook

Top Job Titles
  • Economist
  • Data Analyst
  • Data Scientist
  • Research Analyst
  • Economic Analyst
  • Quantitative Analyst
  • Financial Analyst
  • Credit Analyst
  • Personal Financial Provider
Top Industries
  • Management, Scientific and Technical Consulting Services
  • Finance and Insurance
  • Scientific Research and Development Services
  • Federal Government

Market Salary
$105K in 2022

Projected Job Growth
13% (2020-2030)

Top Employers
  • Deloitte
  • Credit Union National Association (CUNA)
  • Navigant
  • Wisconsin Department of Transportation
  • BHG Financial
  • Scale AI
  • Madison Gas and Electric (MG&E)
  • Zoro

Sources: US Department of Labor: Bureau of Labor Statistics website. 2022. AAE alumni data.

Ready to learn more about Agricultural & Applied Economics: Professional Option MS?
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Connect with our enrollment coaches

Our friendly, knowledgeable enrollment coaches are here to answer your questions. Contact an enrollment coach to:

  • Learn how to make this program work with your life/schedule
  • Get help with your application
  • Determine if financial aid is available

Visit with our coaches on campus or at an upcoming student fair in your area. Search student fairs & events.

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