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The Relevance of Graduate Programs in Agricultural and Resource Economics

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  15 September 2016

Daniel A. Lass*
Affiliation:
Department of Resource Economics University of Massachusetts

Abstract

The relevance of graduate training in the Department of Resource Economics at the University of Massachusetts is investigated through a survey of graduates. The survey questionnaire and measures of relevancy are discussed. Results are presented for three cohorts: graduates currently in Ph.D. programs, M.S. graduates currently employed, and Ph.D. graduates currently employed. Results for all cohorts indicate that their graduate training is relevant to their jobs; however, all cohorts also favored increased application and reduced mathematics and theory. In addition, graduates suggested the need to bolster graduate training in economics with applied courses in business to improve competitiveness in private job markets.

Type
Invited Presentations
Copyright
Copyright © 1997 Northeastern Agricultural and Resource Economics Association 

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