Agricultural Economics : Job Prospects & Career Options

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Agriculture, like other businesses, has its producers, distributors, and consumers - all interdependent in the market system. Globalisation and liberalisation has increased the need for well-trained personnel with knowledge of agricultural production, marketing, finance and policy. Here comes the role of agricultural economists, who have managerial skills and decision making ability.

Agricultural Economists may find opportunities in administration, management and financial advising. Other jobs include market price forecaster, agricultural statistician, farm credit analyst, managers of farm supply and commodity analyst.

After the completion of the course, students can start their own business or work in different areas like agri business management, marketing of agricultural products, farm management and veterinary management. In addition, many agricultural economists pursue successful careers in government service, economic development, commodity promotion and agricultural policy analysis. Agricultural economics graduates are employed in a wide range of settings, including banks, educational institutes and research organisations, consulting firms, government departments of agriculture and environment, agrifood companies and international aid agencies. You can also opt to do research in the area. Most lucrative career in government service is the position of a scientist in Indian Council of Agricultural Research.

Career Areas in this field are as follows:

Entrepreneurship and Small Business Management: You can be your own boss by managing your own farm. Working in family enterprises and managing small businesses are the focus of opportunities in this area.

Agribusiness Management: You may work in sales, management, appraisal, research, or public relations for businesses that produce, buy, sell, process and distribute agricultural products.

Public Service: Public service careers are available at the central, state and local levels. Careers are in such areas as agricultural production, marketing, finance, conservation, and others. State and local agencies offer a wide variety of careers in this area.

Finance and Appraisal: Students work for lending institutions such as commercial and agricultural banks. You would have the opportunity to make loans, evaluate investment opportunities, and appraise property for agricultural purposes.

Farm Business Management: You would manage farm operations, work for integrated agricultural firms, or own and manage your own farm.

International Agriculture and Development: Job opportunities in international agriculture have multiplied in recent years, mostly because of the growth of multinational firms and the efforts of businesses, foundations, and national governments to assist developing countries. You can be employed in development, finance, production, natural resource management and marketing in countries throughout the world.