Graduate Program

Virginia Tech's Department of Ag and Applied Economics offers graduate studies leading to a M.S. in Agricultural and Applied Economics and a Ph.D. in Economics. The Ph.D. in Economics is jointly offered with the Department of Economics. At the master’s level, students can choose between an applied economics focus and a focus on agribusiness. At the Ph.D. level, students can choose among fields in applied econometrics, environmental and natural resource economics, international development and trade, food and health economics, and rural and regional development.

Department faculty and students enjoy a collegial atmosphere for work and study. Class sizes are small and students work closely with faculty members on research and class projects. Over 90 percent of our students receive financial support in the form of graduate assistantships or fellowships. Graduate assistants help professors with teaching classes or carrying out research grants.

Graduates of the M.S. program find careers with private businesses, consulting firms, non-governmental organizations, and in government. Many M.S. graduates also continue their studies in a Ph.D. or law degree program as well. Ph.D. graduates find career positions in academia, with government agencies, and in the private sector including non-governmental organizations and consulting firms.

Want to know more about graduate opportunities at AAEC?

All prospective students must apply to our program through the Graduate School. However, we'd like to send you some customized information about the department. To receive this information, please click below and complete the Virginia Tech Graduate School Interest Page form.