Program Overview

Program Overview

The Doctoral degree in Agricultural Economics is designed for individuals interested in using advanced economic analysis to address global agricultural and food systems challenges, including policy development, resource management, and market optimization. Graduates often pursue careers as university professors, researchers, or analysts in government agencies, think tanks, international organizations, or private sector firms focused on agricultural policy, development economics, and sustainability.

Program Description

The PhD program in Agricultural Economics at the University of Kentucky equips students with the analytical skills and economic expertise needed to address complex issues in agriculture, food systems, natural resources, and rural development. Through a blend of rigorous coursework and original research, students work alongside nationally recognized faculty to explore real-world challenges and contribute valuable insights to the field. Our program prepares graduates for impactful careers in academia, government agencies, international organizations, and the private sector.

Related Careers

Students holding degrees in agricultural economics are employed by academic institutions, local, state, and federal agencies that deal with agriculture, natural resources and economic development; private firms in the agricultural and business sectors; and agencies and governments of foreign countries. These agricultural economists conduct research, develop extension services, teach classes, and serve as managers and administrators in various types of firms and agencies.

Credential

• PhD

Tuition and Cost of Attendance

• Resident: $825.50 per credit hour
• Non-Resident: $2,060.50 per credit hour

Admission Requirements

Please view the Graduate School's Admission Requirements. If there are Program Specific Requirements listed below, those will also apply.

Application Requirements

Please view the application requirements for the Graduate School. If there are Program Specific Requirements listed below, those will also apply.

Program Specific Requirements

Students entering the Ph.D. program are expected to have the following courses:

• at least a two-course calculus sequence
• M.S. level microeconomic theory
• M.S. level macroeconomic theory
• statistics theory Some of these courses may be taken during the student’s first semester. A Master’s degree in a relevant discipline is generally required for entry into the Ph.D. program. In exceptional cases, a student may be admitted directly to the Ph.D. program with only a Bachelor’s degree. There are no minimum GPA or GRE requirements beyond those of the Graduate School, but such information, along with letters of recommendation, is used qualitatively in the admission decision.

Application Deadlines

• Domestic & International Students:
  • Fall: 01/15/2026

Funding Options

As a graduate student, there are additional opportunities for student funding. Once you are admitted into a degree-bearing graduate program at UK, you can apply for a wide variety of financial assistance, including assistantships and fellowships. These opportunities can be tied to your program’s availability, so you should inquire with your program director about opportunities available within your program.