Master of Science - Agricultural and Resource Economics - Thesis Option

The Master of Science (M.S.) degree certified by the Department of Agricultural and Resource Economics (DARE) is a formal program of study consisting of 30 credit hours including a work of original research (thesis or technical paper). The program is designed as a standard two year M.S. degree, but students who work diligently can finish earlier. Class work is focused on microeconomic applications and quantitative methods, and can typically be completed in approximately three semesters. Most M.S. students in DARE opt to prepare a thesis, which must be defended publically before a degree is granted.

Completion of the M.S. in DARE signifies a mastery of fundamental microeconomic theory and econometrics, and an ability to perform applied economic research. This preparation makes M.S. graduates suitable for employment in the public and private sectors as analysts, consultants, researchers, and other occupations. Students with a Masters from our department have gone on to rewarding careers in CSU and peer University’s Extension programs, Federal agencies such as the National Park Service, U.S. Department of Agriculture, State Departments of Agriculture, NGO’s like Nature Conservancy, and the private sector. The M.S. in DARE also provides an excellent basis for those inclined to pursue doctoral degrees. Many of our students have decided to pursue a Ph.D., either in our own program or in other top-level institutions across the country. The program also provides the flexibility to switch from M.S. to Ph.D. after one or two semesters of instruction if a student is so inclined. This allows considerable time savings compared to pursuing a PhD after full completion of the M.S.

Relative to undergraduate instruction, study at the Master’s level is faster-paced, uses considerably more formality in the classroom, and requires original research. Students are expected to be self-motivated, professional, and actively invested in their own education.