Domestic students with an “A” average - We will reimburse your application fee! |
Objectives — MSc and PhD ProgramsThe objectives of both the MSc and PhD programs are to develop students with the following capabilities: • A fundamental understanding of economic principles and their application to agricultural, resource, rural and related issues.
• An appropriate level of problem identification and conceptualization skills to focus on realistic and relevant research problems.
• A capability to integrate theory, technical information and appropriate methods in effectively analyzing and solving agricultural, resource and rural-related problems.
• An appropriate level of communication skills to effectively disseminate research and technical information, including the practical implications of research analyses
The main difference between the MSc and PhD programs is the greater depth in thesis research for the PhD degree and the greater depth and breadth from a larger array of courses. The MSc is an apprenticeship in research and at the completion of their program students must demonstrate an ability to conduct independent research. Students completing the PhD should also be contributing to the literature in their fields of specialization.
The aims of the program are to educate people already well versed in the current theory and techniques of agricultural economics research. Graduate students are expected to have developed self-learning abilities and to be able to apply critical and innovative thinking. Seminars, courses, research projects, the writing of a thesis based on original research for each degree and the PhD comprehensive examination are the means by which the program meets and verifies its objectives. As well as at seminars in the Department, students are encouraged and given financial support to present the results of their research at national and international research meetings.
Master's and PhD students are encouraged to investigate a variety of career opportunities and to customize their program by selecting activities that would equip them to meet the challenges of both academic and non-academic careers.
Both the MSc and PhD programs provide a rigorous combination of economic theory, quantitative methods, agricultural economics subject matter and applied research experience that enables students to receive a well-rounded graduate training.
A special feature of the Department is its close links to the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture and Food (OMAF), Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC), Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA), Health Canada , Canadian International Development Agency (CIDA), International Development Research Centre (IDRC), Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources, Forestry Canada and with producer organizations. These linkages have enabled researchers to define pertinent economic problems facing the agrifood and natural resource sectors. In addition, students working on research problems can acquire an appreciation of the policy environment within which these organizations exist. In addition, these groups tend hire a number of our graduates upon completion of their studies.
The Department also has strong links internationally. Graduate students in the Department are drawn from North America , Europe , Latin America , Africa and Asia . The multicultural nature of the graduate student body enriches the experience of both students and faculty in the Department.
The
strength of both the MSc and PhD programs in agricultural economics is demonstrated
by the ability of graduates from these programs to make effective contributions
in a wide variety of situations that require applied economic and management
analysis. Several graduates from the MSc program, who have gone to doctoral
programs at other major universities in North America and Europe , have
commented that our training provided them with a competitive edge compared
to other graduate students, particularly in their strength of economic analysis
and practical application of their training. |
 "The Department of FARE was my graduate program of choice because of the diversified research programs and academic training that is available here. Students have the opportunities to pursue their interests and work on applied researches that help solve real world problems." - Xin, M.Sc. FARE Graduate Student  "My first impression of the University of Guelph was based around the openness to diversity and appreciation of hard work that is evident around campus. This impression was only strengthened by the graduate program in the Department of FARE. With knowledgeable faculty and staff, FARE offers a wide variety of research opportunities and meets the needs of many students with various interests." - Predrag, PhD FARE Graduate Student  "I chose to study in the Department of FARE because of its excellent reputation in agricultural economics. Strict and systematic coursework training laid a solid foundation for my future research. Kind, diversified and knowledgeable faculty and staff have provided very helpful assistance on my way of learning." - Zongyuan, PhD FARE Graduate Student  "I was initially attracted to the Department of FARE because of the applied approach to economic research, allowing me to think outside the classroom. Working and studying at the University of Guelph presents an opportunity to be a part of an academic community that can provide me with skills and tools needed to succeed in the working world." Read More - Brook, M.Sc. FARE Graduate Student  "The FARE graduate program has provided me with knowledge about important agricultural issues as well as applied economic tools that will help to solve industry problems. My experience in the Department of FARE has been very enjoyable and has opened the doors for a promising and rewarding career in the agriculture industry!" - Rebecca, M.Sc. FARE Graduate Student  "I had a great experience completing my undergraduate degree at the University of Guelph so I chose to continue into graduate studies. The Department of FARE is a great place to make more real world connections and participate in top quality programs." - Chris, M.Sc. FARE Graduate Student  "My experience as a graduate student in the Department of FARE has been very rewarding. The growing interest in food and agricultural related topics in today's society has provided a great deal of application to current world issues. The department also offers a very communal environment that has allowed me to form lasting relationships, both personally and academically." - Ann-Renée, M.Sc. FARE Graduate Student  "One thing that I like most about being a graduate student in the Department of FARE is the focus on consultation. Each semester students meet with the graduate study committee to discuss course selection, plan of research and ask questions." - Na, PhD FARE Graduate Student  "Guelph is a great place to study and FARE is a top program in my chosen field. The faculty, staff and students are like a big family because we work together and help each other. During the first eight-month study, I have not only learned the theoretical knowledge, but also practical skills." - Di, M.Sc. FARE Graduate Student  "I chose to study in the Department of FARE because of the expertise and flexibility of the program. The instructors and students are highly regarded in the field of agricultural economics, and I have also been able to complete the International Development Studies program. The combination of these programs is providing me with the knowledge to be successful in a field where my direct interests lie." - Derek, M.Sc. FARE Graduate Student |
