Edited By Julian Palacio
Review & Contribution By Kevin Skipper
Grow your expertise in agricultural management with an Online Agribusiness Master’s Degree,
empowering you to innovate and lead globally in the dynamic agri sector.
Agribusiness is the study of farming, value chains, and farming-related commercial activities. The agribusiness master’s online focus on food and agribusiness domains, emphasizing integrating business and economic analysis with quantitative decision-making tools. It also helps students understand how food is developed, appropriate techniques to yield produce, sources of raw food products from across the globe, and more. An online agribusiness master’s degree helps students prepare for modern business, government, research environments, food product development, production, and agriculture-related academics. They also gain valuable presentation and communication skills to gain professional success.
Table Of Contents
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Find the Best Online Agribusiness Master’s Degree Programs
When searching for the top online universities offering a Master’s in Agribusiness degree, key factors include course variety, program length, tuition fees, research focus, commitment to agricultural research, recognition, and career opportunities. Renowned institutions in agribusiness offer customized courses catering to various student interests and knowledge levels. The teams at FBD have comprehensively assessed the Agribusiness Master’s programs, evaluating curriculum excellence, learning outcomes, financial aspects, and alignment with specific agricultural sectors.
Based on several critical components and our proprietary methodology, here is the list of the best online agribusiness master’s programs
| Univ | Address | Tuition | Grad Rate |
| Texas Tech University | Broadway and University Avenue, Lubbock, Texas 79409 | $6,956 | 64% |
Universities and programs are ranked by various factors, such as affordability, curriculum and coursework, reputation and availability, program length, statistics, the potential of employment, and return on investment for the students. For a more in-depth analysis, please read about our rankings methodology page.
What to Expect from an Online Agribusiness Master’s Degree
The Agribusiness graduate program focuses on developing and enhancing value-added food, biofuel industries, and agricultural products. A master in agribusiness management online program can be completed in 18-24 months, ranging from 30-45 credits on average. Through the degree, students learn how to use economic and data modeling to efficiently contribute to distributing and producing feed, fiber, and food. Many colleges provide degrees in online, offline, and hybrid learning modes. This program helps graduates teach skill sets applicable to work in the fast-paced global economy and rapidly growing international agribusiness and food organizations specifically. They learn case-based research and integrate capstone courses in financial analysis and strategic management. Most colleges require students to take a comprehensive final exam. As a graduate of an agribusiness program, they will be prepared for advancement into roles such as market analyst, commodities broker, farm or ranch manager, policy analyst, and more.
Curriculum and Coursework
A master of agricultural business management helps students build a skill set in the fast-paced global agriculture marketplace. Most colleges provide students with a curriculum that provides a foundation in the basics of agribusiness management and economics. They develop the skills to analyze issues related to food, agriculture or natural resource policies, environment, natural resource economy, and community or rural development.
Many colleges offer students the option of a thesis-based curriculum, wherein they are expected to complete their coursework and thesis work by the end of the degree. Besides the core courses, graduates taking non-thesis programs must complete a capstone course with an analytic paper on agriculture-related topics in either academic or work-related format.
Different colleges have different coursework; however, some standard courses students can find across schools include
Agribusiness Financial Management
This course teaches about the importance of finance in Agribusiness and agricultural production, increasing them cheaply and easily. Students learn the history of the United States, agribusiness focusing on producing and distributing products related to agriculture. The course also uncovers information on agribusiness management, including financial life skills, value-added production, pricing, budgeting, and so on.
Optimization Techniques for Agribusiness
This course helps students learn about different optimizing techniques used more or less frequently in agricultural engineering. Students also understand the effectiveness of new optimization techniques like fuzzy systems, neural networks, genetic algorithms, etc. Students may look at the agricultural engineering challenges particular to their geographic location.
Agribusiness Risk Management
This course helps students understand innovative ways to improve vulnerable rural households’ leveraging, resilience, and investment. They learn how farmers and businesses can proactively and efficiently prepare for, absorb, adapt, and assess risks. Students learn about decisions to diversify income sources, avoiding high-risk crops, formal insurance policies, etc.
Managing Organizational Behaviors
This course helps students understand how individuals behave in their professional roles rather than when acting separately from their organization. It also examines aspects like who is highly motivated, who is enthusiastic about their work, and more. Topics learned through this course help students mold attitudes in the context of organizations and make appropriate changes.
Applied Agribusiness Economics
This course helps students learn about agricultural markets, production systems, policy, trade, etc. It combines economic and management principles with agricultural production technology and policy. Students review policies and methodologies for evaluating the economics of agribusiness, rural development, and natural resources.
Some other core courses that master’s program students can look up include
- Economics for Agribusiness and Food Managers
- Applied Quantitative Methods for Decision Making
- Quantitative Managerial Decision Making
- Strategic Food and Agribusiness Management
- Communication and Challenges for Agricultural Professionals
- Agribusiness Logistics
- International Agribusiness Policy Analysis
- Macroeconomic Trade and Policy Environment of the Food System
- Sales and Marketing in the Animal Health Industry
- Comparative Food and Agriculture Systems
Learning Outcomes and Skills Gained
The Master of Agribusiness focuses on students building fundamentals in food, animal health, and ethics accepted by agribusiness professionals. It helps them build a skill set in the rapidly expanding global agribusiness market and be employed in all sectors of the agribusiness industry, including education, producers, animal health, food processing, pharmaceutical sales, and so on.
This degree enhances students’ skills in quantitative data analysis, data-based decision-making, and data analytics. Some more essential skills that a student of an agribusiness online master’s degree gains by the end of the degree include the ability to
- demonstrate comprehension of challenges and issues in the agribusiness industry and come up with solutions for the same;
- demonstrate understanding of concepts of manufacturing economics to the agriculture and food industry;
- demonstrate a broad knowledge of business to facilitate decision-making and communication within the organization;
- demonstrate analytical and strategic skills to identify design solutions to business problems for agribusiness challenges;
- demonstrate utilization of knowledge and tools to bring change within agribusiness organizations and adapt to different environments of business;
- demonstrate understanding of communication principles needed to engage with other agricultural professionals and stakeholders;
- demonstrate quantitative and qualitative methods usage for decision-making in solving challenges within the industry;
- demonstrate the use of the resource allocation theory for producing fiber and food into action by developing problem-solving, management, and financial strategies.
Types of Master’s Degrees Agribusiness Students Can Obtain
Studying for an online master’s agribusiness degree helps students develop economic and business skills that help them be leaders in agriculture or other related industries. The curriculum teaches them to analyze agricultural, natural resource, food-related policies, community or rural development, or natural resource or environment economics. Some agribusiness graduate degrees include a Master in Agribusiness, a Master of Science or M.Sc., and a Master’s of Business Administration or MBA agribusiness online program.
Master in Agribusiness
The Master in Agribusiness is intended for agricultural, business, or rural science graduates and those professionals who want to upgrade their skills to gain advanced roles in agribusiness. It helps them develop a deeper understanding of the commercial components of the production domain. The study concerns agribusiness planning and management, value chain management, market research, and marketing.
Master of Science in Agribusiness
The Master of Science or M.Sc. in Agribusiness involves the study of different disciplines of agriculture, such as horticulture, soil science, agriculture heritage, agriculture economics, crop physiology, argic-informatics, and more. After finishing this program, students can achieve several opportunities, including research scientists, field officers, agronomists, farm managers, and so on.
Master of Business Administration in Agribusiness
The Master of Business Administration or MBA in Agribusiness helps students get a holistic view of general components of management covering all functional domains. They learn about various topics, including managerial economics, business laws and ethics, marketing management, entrepreneurship development, research methodology in management, and more.
Areas of Specialization for Agribusiness Students
Agribusiness students can choose from various specializations, each offering unique career growth and development opportunities. Specializing allows students to focus on specific aspects of the agricultural industry, honing their skills and expertise in areas of particular interest. This focused approach enhances their ability to tackle industry challenges and excel in their chosen field upon graduation. Some specializations that students of master’s degree in agribusiness online degree take up include
| Area of Specialization | Description | Career Options |
|---|---|---|
| Agricultural Economics | This specialization focuses on economic principles applied to the agricultural sector. Students analyze factors influencing the production, distribution, and consumption of agricultural goods. This specialization equips graduates with skills to address economic challenges in farming, agribusiness management, policy-making, and global food systems. | • Agricultural Economist • Market Analyst • Economic Consultant for Agricultural Organizations • Research Analyst in Agricultural Policy Institutes |
| Food and Agribusiness Management | This specialization emphasizes strategic management principles tailored to the agricultural and food industries. Students learn about supply chain dynamics, marketing strategies, financial management, and sustainability practices, preparing them for leadership roles in agribusiness companies and related organizations. | • Agribusiness Manager • Food Supply Chain Manager • Product Development Manager • Quality Control Specialist in the Food Industry |
| Agribusiness Finance | This specialization explores financial management principles specific to the agricultural sector. Students learn about capital budgeting, risk management, investment analysis, and financial planning tailored to agribusiness operations. This specialization equips graduates with essential skills for financial decision-making in agricultural enterprises. | • Agricultural Loan Officer • Financial Analyst for Agribusiness Corporations • Risk Management Specialist • Agricultural Investment Advisor |
| Policy or Trade | Concentration focuses on export promotion, agricultural export-oriented production, synchronization, and better farmer realization within policies specified by the government. One also learns about the trade policies on large-scale agricultural producers and family or smallholder farms. | • Agricultural Policy Analyst • International Trade Specialist in Agriculture • Government Relations Manager for Agricultural Organizations • Agricultural Trade Negotiator |
Full-Time and Part-Time Programs
As with most educational degrees, the time required to obtain a master’s in agricultural business would depend on the number of courses students complete from their coursework. On average, it takes about two years to complete a master’s degree when completed full-time. A part-time degree in agricultural business would take more than two years. The program can be completed in an accelerated format in less than two years. Here is a quick summary of the timeline to complete an online master’s degree in agribusiness:
- Full-time program: two years to complete the program
- Part-time program: more than two years to complete the program
- Accelerated program: less than two years to complete the program
Accelerated Agribusiness Programs
An accelerated master’s degree in agribusiness program helps complete a master’s degree in less time than required through a regular program. Applying to graduate programs in the accelerated format is the same as the standard application procedures for a traditional master’s degree. Students usually take up accelerated programs as they have other priorities like work and lessen the program’s cost. They can accelerate their programs by fast-tracking their degrees and transferring their credits. Generally, to expedite a master’s program, they must complete more courses in less time. However, it can get a bit overwhelming as the coursework is considered a bit challenging.
Some of the colleges that provide an accelerated online agribusiness master’s degree program in the U.S. include:
Requirements for Getting into an Online Agribusiness Master’s Degree Program
When applying for a graduate degree, students will find many requirements to be aware of and get their documentation accordingly. Most colleges generally require an undergraduate degree in agribusiness or related fields. Since master’s programs require advanced coursework, the institution will try to ensure that they have some elemental understanding of agriculture and related topics. Therefore, they may need prerequisites in earth sciences, farming, etc. Some of the standard online master’s in agribusiness admission requirements include:
- Application fee and completed form
- Undergraduate degree from an accredited program
- Admissions essay that describes professional and educational aspiration
- Test scores from the Graduate Record Exam or GRE (waived off by some schools)
- ACT or SAT scores stipulated by specific universities
- Personal statement or statement of purpose
- Two to three letters of recommendation from professionals in the field
- Graduate Resume highlighting any experience in agribusiness or related fields
No GRE Online Agribusiness Master’s Degree Programs
The Graduate Record Examination (GRE) is a standardized test that is a necessary admission requirement for many master’s schools in the United States. Increasingly, many colleges have waived the requirement altogether. Most agricultural business degrees generally don’t require a GRE score. Some institutions that provide an online agribusiness master’s degree no GRE include:
How to Ensure an Online Agribusiness Master’s Degree Program Is Accredited
Accreditation ensures that the Master’s in Agribusiness program meets quality standards, providing students with a valuable credential recognized by employers and academic institutions. It assures students that they receive a top-notch education with a curriculum that meets industry standards. Accredited programs also make it easier to transfer credits, qualify for financial aid, and gain recognition from potential employers, giving students a solid foundation for career success. In the USA, agribusiness programs are accredited by organizations like the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP)[6]. This accreditation guarantees high standards, giving students confidence in their education.
Universities can also receive national accreditation or accreditation from one of six regional accrediting agencies:
- New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)
- Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
- Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
- Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
- Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)
- Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)
Where to Find Free Online Courses for Agribusiness Master’s Students
Free courses offer a fantastic chance to learn without cost or commitment, covering many topics. While they lack accreditation, they’re perfect for expanding knowledge, exploring interests, and even boosting resumes. These courses empower individuals to grow personally and professionally, regardless of their educational background.
Some free agribusiness courses that students of a master’s in agriculture business can take up are
| Course | Provided by | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Farm Management and Maintenance[7] | edX | This free course is essential for aspiring farmers, managers, and agriculture enthusiasts. It equips learners with skills to navigate modern agriculture complexities, offering a solid foundation for running sustainable, viable farms. The course integrates modern farming and financial business methods, empowering students for success in the agricultural sector. |
| Sustainable Agricultural Land Management[8] | Coursera | This course teaches about best management practices, TMDLs and nutrients, water quality regulations and issues, etc. Students also understand soil testing, proper nutrient management, soil testing, nutrient management, and moving water for agriculture. |
| Introduction to Agribusiness & Agricultural Finance[9] | Corporate Finance Institute | This course helps learners better understand the agribusiness value chain, livestock operations, and specific crops such as pork, poultry, eggs, beef cattle, etc. They can also classify subsectors along with their operating risks and cycles. |
Ways to Pay for an Online Agribusiness Master’s Degree
Funding an online Agribusiness Master’s Degree involves strategic planning amidst rising tuition costs. Students can explore scholarships, grants, employer reimbursement programs, and federal student loans to offset expenses. Diligent budgeting and minimizing student debt are crucial for financial stability post-graduation in the agricultural sector.
Here is a brief on funding options that online master’s in agribusiness students could avail:
Scholarships offer vital financial aid for online Agribusiness Master’s Degrees, covering tuition costs and reducing student debt. Students can seek out merit-based, need-based, or specialized scholarships to alleviate the financial burden of higher education.
Grants provide essential financial support for pursuing an online Agribusiness Master’s Degree, offering funding without needing repayment. These awards, often based on financial need or specific criteria, help offset tuition costs and alleviate the burden of student debt.
Graduate Assistantships
Graduate assistantships present valuable opportunities for students pursuing an online Agribusiness Master’s Degree. These positions offer financial aid through stipends and tuition waivers in exchange for research, teaching, or administrative work. These positions help reduce tuition costs and provide valuable professional experience.
FAFSA Student Aid is crucial for funding online Agribusiness Master’s Degrees. It provides grants, loans, and work-study opportunities based on financial need. Completing the FAFSA form enables students to access federal aid programs, helping to cover tuition costs and reduce reliance on private loans.
Scholarships for Online Agribusiness Master’s Degree Students
Scholarships available for online Agribusiness Master’s Degree students provide financial assistance, fostering accessibility and diversity in the field. These scholarships aim to support talented individuals pursuing advanced education in agribusiness, ensuring opportunities for growth and innovation in the agricultural sector.
Students can pursue the following online master’s in agribusiness scholarships.
| Scholarship | Description | Award/Amount | Application Deadline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Timothy S. and Palmer W. Bigelow, Jr. Scholarship[10] | This scholarship helps applicants study for a graduate degree in landscape, horticulture, or related disciplines. Preference may be given to candidates planning to work in different aspects of the nursery industry after graduation, including wanting to open their agribusiness. | $2,000 | June annually |
| Sidney B. Meadows Scholarship[11] | The Sidney B. Meadows Scholarship, established in 1989, honors horticultural leader Sidney B. Meadows and supports students in sixteen southeastern states pursuing ornamental horticulture or related disciplines. Administered by the Sidney B. Meadows Scholarship Endowment Fund, it provides academic aid to undergraduates and graduates with a GPA of 2.75 or higher. | $2,000 | June annually |
Career Opportunities and Salaries After Graduating From an Online Agribusiness Master’s Program
After graduating in agribusiness, career opportunities abound across various sectors. Graduates can anticipate competitive salaries commensurate with their expertise and experience in roles spanning agricultural production, management, marketing, and more. The diverse skills acquired prepare them for rewarding careers in the dynamic agribusiness industry.
Students with an online master’s degree in agribusiness work in many areas, including
- Animal Health
- Animal health pharmaceutical
- Animal Nutrition
- Food safety
- Laboratory
- Product development
- Production
- Quality control
- Sales and marketing
Some occupations in agricultural business graduates can pursue are highlighted below:
| Occupation | Skills Required | Median Annual Salary | Job Growth (up to 2031) | Job Description |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Agricultural Workers[12] | Dexterity, listening, mechanical, physical stamina, and physical strength skills. | $33,290 | -2% (decline) | Agricultural workers typically plant, harvest, inspect crops, and operate farm tools and machinery. They are also entrusted to examine animals to detect signs of injuries or illnesses and administer vaccines to protect them from diseases. |
| Agriculture Teacher[13] | Communication, decision-making, detail-oriented, listening, and physical stamina skills. | $47,101 | No Data Available | Agriculture Teachers design curriculum-aligned lesson plans, demonstrating thorough preparation and accommodation for diverse student needs. By integrating positive discipline strategies, they cultivate an inclusive learning environment that empowers students to thrive in agricultural education. |
| Conservation Scientists and Foresters[14] | Analytical, communication, critical thinking, management, and physical stamina. | $634,420 | 4% (as fast as average) | Conservation scientists and foresters help establish plans for managing forest resources and lands and monitor forest-cleared forest and land regeneration. They also work with governments, farmers, private landowners, and more to remove timber and improve land with minimal environmental damage. |
| Agriculture Specialist[15] | Communication, critical thinking, data analysis, observation, and marketing skills. | $50,847 | No Data Available | The Agriculture Specialist role includes diverse tasks such as marketing, sales support, market research, and distribution development. Responsibilities also include providing technical assistance to farms and agricultural businesses, focusing on enhancing product quality, sustainability, and profitability. This position involves hands-on training, trade show participation, and developing promotional materials to support agricultural growth. |
Certifications and Licensing for Online Master’s Students in Agribusiness
Certifications for online master’s students in agribusiness validate their expertise and enhance career opportunities. These credentials demonstrate proficiency in specialized areas of agribusiness, such as agricultural economics or farm management. They increase marketability, credibility, and earning potential, aligning students with industry standards and expectations. Some professional certifications students of online agribusiness master’s degree can undertake include:
Agricultural Communications Specialist Certification[16]
This certification helps candidates gain industry readiness indicators measured on the agricultural communication certification examination. It also allows them to develop and edit materials for media broadcast and printed media, utilizing graphics, photography, and advertising, meeting industry needs by identifying with employer-demanded and specific knowledge, abilities, and skills.
This certification helps individuals become producers and handlers and receive premium prices for their services and products. They can access fast-growing regional, international, and local markets and support local economies. They can also access additional funding and assistance in technical agribusiness components.
Certificate in Agribusiness Entrepreneurship[18]
This Certification empowers individuals aspiring to thrive in agri-food by enhancing their business acumen. This 12-week online program, crafted with industry experts, equips participants with sustainable business models and strategic insights to drive profitability, manage risk, and capitalize on opportunities. Suitable for aspiring entrepreneurs, scale-up businesses, and intrapreneurs alike.
Additional Resources for Agribusiness Graduates
Additional resources for agribusiness degree programs include workshops, industry conferences, and professional networking events. These opportunities provide students with valuable insights, practical skills, and connections within the agricultural sector, enhancing their academic experience and preparing them for successful careers in the field. Some organizations that master’s degree in agribusiness online can consider include:
| Title/Resource | Description |
|---|---|
| The Soil Science Society of America (SSSA) | The Soil Science Society of America (SSSA) is an international scientific society headquartered in Madison, WI. Established in 1936, it serves over 6,000 members and 800+ certified professionals dedicated to advancing soil science. SSSA collaborates closely with related organizations and offers research publications, educational programs, certifications, and science policy initiatives. |
| The American Society for Horticultural Science (ASHS) | The American Society for Horticultural Science (ASHS), established in 1903, is a prestigious global society for horticultural scientists. With thousands of members worldwide, it promotes scientific research and education in horticulture. ASHS members address critical issues, provide research for sustainable crop production, and educate future industry professionals, contributing to global food security and environmental stewardship. |
| Savory Institute | Savory Institute has a global network of learning that is spreading knowledge of holistic management. They aim to support and encourage members to build more decentralized, diverse, and resilient ecosystems to generate healthy grassland. |
| Ecological Farming Association | The ecological farming association aims to create a space for learning and dialogue about racial justice and racism in the context of agriculture and food systems in their community. They also want to amplify the voices of black, indigenous, and individuals of color allies in food systems. |
FAQs About Online Agribusiness Master’s Degree Programs
Why should you do a master’s in agribusiness degree online?
Studying for an online master’s in agribusiness can benefit those who want to complete a degree while managing other personal or professional responsibilities. Those opting for online programs will benefit from the flexibility of the coursework and lower tuition.
How valuable is an online master’s degree in agribusiness?
Is a master in agribusiness worth it?
Is taking up a thesis necessary for an agribusiness master?
Is it necessary to have a bachelor’s degree in agribusiness to pursue a master’s?
How long does it take to complete an online master’s in agribusiness?
What can you do with a master’s in agribusiness online degree?
Citations:
Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP)
Farm Management and Maintenance- Alison
Sustainable Agricultural Land Management- Coursera
Introduction to Agribusiness & Agricultural Finance- CFI
Timothy S. and Palmer W. Bigelow, Jr. Scholarship
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Occupational Outlook for Agricultural Workers
Salary.com Agriculture Teacher
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Occupational Outlook for Conservation Scientists and Foresters
Salary.com Agriculture Specialist