Intro to Ag-Economics

Catalog description

The purpose of this introductory course is for students to develop a basic understanding and appreciation for the role of economics in agriculture at the (1) firm, (2) national, and (3) international levels. The main focus of this course will be directed at the firm level or the study of microeconomics. Students will learn to apply various economic principles and concepts relating to production agriculture, business management, consumer behavior, market price analysis and equilibrium, and public policy formation. An overview of the structure and scope of the U.S. food and fiber sector and its current trends/implications for the national economy will also be presented. Additional course topics will include rural development, natural resources, world food economics, international trade and policy, market structure and competition, and monetary/fiscal policies as time permits during the semester.