Master of Business Administration (Agribusiness)

Hours: 33 Online

About

The Master of Business Administration (Agribusiness) at Fort Hays State University is a specialized program designed to equip professionals in the agricultural sector with advanced business management skills tailored to the unique demands of the industry. By combining core MBA principles with in-depth knowledge of the agricultural landscape, this program prepares graduates to navigate the complexities and challenges specific to agribusiness.

The curriculum offers a comprehensive exploration of topics such as strategic management, leadership, risk management, and market analysis—all within the context of modern agriculture. This focused approach ensures that students develop both a strong business foundation and an acute understanding of agricultural operations.

This program emphasizes real-world applications by integrating academic theory, providing a balanced and practical educational experience. Whether aiming to advance in an existing role, transition into a new position within the agricultural sector, or launch an agribusiness venture, students gain the critical tools and knowledge necessary for success.

Through rigorous coursework, hands-on projects, and guidance from industry-experienced faculty, graduates are well-prepared to lead, innovate, and make strategic decisions in the ever-evolving field of agribusiness.

Why pursue a Master of Business Administration (Agribusiness) at Fort Hays State University?

FHSU offers a distinctive Master of Business Administration (Agribusiness) program tailored to meet the evolving needs of the agricultural sector. This program stands out by effectively bridging the gap between advanced business strategies and the practical aspects of agribusiness, ensuring graduates are equipped to navigate the industry's unique challenges.

The Master of Business Administration (Agribusiness) emphasizes a comprehensive understanding of both the managerial and technical dimensions of agriculture. Through an integrated curriculum, students gain expertise in leadership, strategic planning, and risk management within the context of the agribusiness environment.

A key strength of the program lies in its focus on value-chain analysis and the intersection of economics, management, and agricultural marketing. This specialized approach prepares graduates for leadership roles in a dynamic and globally connected agricultural market, positioning them to drive innovation and sustainable growth within the industry.

Who is this program for?

This program is designed for individuals who are passionate about the agricultural industry and are seeking to advance their expertise and career opportunities through a specialized business education.

Individuals aiming for leadership roles in agribusiness
Professionals in agricultural sectors seeking advanced managerial skills
Entrepreneurs looking to start or enhance their agribusiness ventures

Real-World Applications

The Master of Business Administration (Agribusiness) is designed to prepare students for real-world challenges in the agricultural industry. Through specialized courses such as Agricultural Risk Management and Strategic Planning in Agricultural Business, students learn to apply core business principles within the context of today’s agricultural market. This practical focus ensures graduates are well-equipped to make informed decisions that influence both economic performance and environmental sustainability.

The program emphasizes experiential learning through case studies and real-life scenarios that reflect the day-to-day complexities faced by agribusiness professionals. This approach enables students to develop the skills needed to address key industry issues such as commodity price volatility, supply chain management, and sustainable agricultural practices. Graduates emerge with a strong, industry-relevant skill set designed to meet the demands of modern agribusiness leadership.

Stay Ahead of the Curve

In the fast-evolving field of agribusiness, staying ahead of technological advancements and market trends is essential. Fort Hays State University integrates the latest developments in agricultural technology and modern business practices directly into the curriculum, ensuring students are both current and future-ready.

Courses such as Information Systems for Management and Advanced Managerial Accounting incorporate cutting-edge software and analytical techniques that are critical for effective agribusiness management. By strategically applying these tools within real-world scenarios, the program equips students to lead in environments where technology drives operational efficiency, innovation, and sustainability.

Hands-on Activities

The program places a strong emphasis on practical learning experiences. Students engage in simulations and live projects that mirror real-world agricultural business environments, allowing them to apply theoretical concepts in practical settings. This experiential approach strengthens real-time decision-making, strategic thinking, and overall business acumen.

In addition, students benefit from collaboration with local agribusiness firms through internships and cooperative education opportunities. These industry partnerships enrich the learning experience and help students build valuable professional networks within the agricultural sector.

What You’ll Learn:

Leadership in agricultural business
Risk management strategies
Strategic value-chain analysis
Economic and environmental decision-making
Market and financial analytics

How You’ll Learn:

Case studies and real-life scenarios
Collaborative projects with agribusinesses
Strategic management simulations
Advanced technological tools in coursework
Interactive and participatory lectures

Courses

The core curriculum consists of eight foundational courses that cover key business disciplines. Building on this foundation, students then complete specialized courses such as Agricultural Risk Management and Strategic Planning in Agricultural Business, which address the unique challenges and strategies specific to the agribusiness sector. Highlighted below are a few of the courses offered in the program:

AGRI 820: Agricultural Risk Management

An in-depth study of a variety of risk management strategies inherent to the agricultural firm. Topics include: diversification, insurance, forward contracting, hedging and options trading through applied problems with use of simulation. Managing risk associated with input prices, output prices, organizational structure, and financial instruments are emphasized.

AGRI 850: Strategic Planning in Agricultural Business

An applied study of agricultural business logistics combining case study analysis and the study of the principles and concepts behind the strategic planning process and their impact on the sustainability of the agricultural firm. Topics include the role and scope of logistics in agribusiness, connecting economic development with strategic planning, exploring the issues surrounding transaction costs and the principal-agent problem associated with outsourcing, strategic alliances, emerging technologies, and tools for logistics.

AGRI 860: Organizational Behavior in Agricultural Business

An in-depth analysis of individual and group behavior in agricultural business, governmental, and other organizations with emphasis on current literature and applications within business management. Topics include theories of individual learning and perception, attitude change, job motivation, group dynamics, conflict management, and leadership.

Discover the full Master of Business Administration (Agribusiness) course listing by visiting the Academic Catalog.

Career Prospects

Graduates are well-equipped for a wide range of rewarding career opportunities. With a degree specifically tailored to the complex and ever-evolving demands of the agricultural industry, they are prepared to lead, drive innovation, and contribute to growth across various roles and sectors within agribusiness.

Agribusiness Manager

Agribusiness managers oversee the operations of agricultural businesses, focusing on efficiency, profitability, and sustainability. This role combines knowledge of agricultural production with strong business management skills to handle daily operations and strategic planning.

Agricultural Policy Analyst

Agricultural policy analysts assess the impact of policies on the agricultural sector and advise businesses or government agencies. They help develop strategies in response to legislative changes, supporting sustainability and profitability within the industry.

Supply Chain Coordinator

Supply chain coordinators in agribusiness manage logistics from farm to market, optimizing operations to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and maintain product quality. They oversee procurement, transportation, storage, and distribution to ensure a smooth and effective supply chain.

Risk Management Consultant

Risk management consultants in agribusiness identify potential financial, operational, and environmental risks and develop strategies to mitigate them. Their expertise helps protect assets, ensure stability, and maintain business continuity amid uncertainties.

Market Analyst

Market analysts in agribusiness conduct research and analysis to guide informed decisions on market entry and growth. They assess trends, consumer behavior, and competition to help businesses maximize their competitive advantage.

Admission Requirements

MBA applications are accepted throughout the year, and admissions are made continually. It typically takes up to four weeks for an application to be processed. To ensure admission for the upcoming semester, applicants are encouraged to submit their materials at least 30 days before the start of classes. Early submission helps prevent delays in the admission process. The FHSU Graduate School and MBA Committee will only review complete application packages, which must include the following:

A paid graduate application
Current resume
Official transcripts from all undergraduate and graduate coursework (in English)
Two (2) letters of recommendation (must be signed and on letterhead to be official)
Personal statement from student indicating reasons for seeking a Master of Business Administration degree, including professional and/or career goals and pertinent past work experience
Other requirements as specified by the Fort Hays State University Graduate School. Apply through the FHSU Graduate School.

Please do not include a photograph on any application materials. Applications with photographs will not be reviewed.
All application materials should be sent to the FHSU Graduate School via email at gradschool@fhsu.edu or mail:

Graduate School
Fort Hays State University
600 Park Street
Hays, KS 67601

Questions regarding the application process can be directed to the FHSU Graduate School at 785-628-4236 or gradschool@fhsu.edu or Sarah Patterson, MBA Graduate Coordinator, at 785-628-5696 or gradcoordinator@fhsu.edu.

The Best Value in Higher Education Anywhere

Fort Hays State University prides itself on quality education at an affordable price. Students in this program can expect to pay approximately $12,396.78* (online) during their time as a student.

*Estimated costs are based on calculating the GR resident/regional tuition rate for on-campus students or the FHSU Online GR tuition rate plus the tuition rate for the MBA by the number of hours needed (24 MBA and 9 graduate concentration courses) to complete this program. Tuition and Fees are subject to change as they are approved by the Kansas Board of Regents each year.

Ready for the next step?

Our faculty would be excited to talk to you about how our department programs can help you explore your interests and prepare you for a variety of rewarding careers.

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Related Programs

For students interested in both agriculture and business, Fort Hays State University offers several related programs that complement the Master of Business Administration (Agribusiness). These alternatives provide opportunities for further specialization or a broader education in related fields.

Bachelor of Science in Agricultural Business

FAQ

Which concentration in the MBA is best for a career in agriculture?

The Master of Business Administration (Agribusiness) is the ideal concentration for a career in agriculture. It combines advanced business management skills with specialized knowledge of the farming industry, preparing graduates to tackle agribusiness challenges. Its focus on practical skills, real-world applications, and modern technology makes it especially suited for those seeking an MBA tailored to agriculture.

What is the salary of a Master of Business Administration (Agribusiness) in the USA?

Graduates often secure leadership roles in the agricultural sector with competitive salaries. Earnings vary based on experience, location, and specific job responsibilities.

What is the difference between an MBA and other master’s degrees in agribusiness?

The Master of Business Administration (Agribusiness) differs from other master’s degrees by combining broad business disciplines—like accounting, finance, and marketing—with practical agribusiness knowledge. Unlike traditional agribusiness master’s programs, which often focus more on agricultural studies, the MBA emphasizes both advanced business strategies and industry-specific applications.

Is a Master of Business Administration (Agribusiness) a good degree?

Yes, a Master of Business Administration (Agribusiness) is a valuable degree for those passionate about agriculture and looking to advance their careers. It provides a strong curriculum that equips students with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in agribusiness management.

Information about the Department of Agriculture

The Department of Agriculture at FHSU is dedicated to sustaining the future of American agriculture by blending tradition with innovation through career-focused, hands-on programs. With a strong emphasis on applied learning and foundational coursework, the department prepares students to thrive in the evolving agricultural industry, equipping them to address industry challenges, drive innovation, and promote sustainable practices.

Students gain practical experience on FHSU’s 3,825-acre farm while developing critical skills in leadership, communication, and problem-solving. These programs also foster lasting mentorships and friendships, creating a supportive community that extends beyond graduation.

Graduates pursue diverse careers, including farm management, feed yard operations, grain trading, agricultural education, crop consulting, and leadership roles in agribusiness corporations. Backed by a strong academic foundation and a wide-reaching alumni network, students are well-prepared for rewarding and impactful careers in the agricultural sector.

Student Organizations

While earning a degree remains the primary focus, college life offers much more than classroom learning. Students are encouraged to participate in extracurricular activities that foster leadership skills, deepen their understanding of their chosen careers, and provide opportunities to make a positive impact in their communities.

Agronomy Business Club: The Agronomy Business Club is the only student-led organization on campus dedicated to promoting both the scientific and professional business development of agronomy. The club provides students with opportunities to deepen their knowledge of agronomic sciences while building essential business skills, preparing them for success in the agriculture industry.
Alpha Gamma Rho Fraternity: This fraternity is both a social and professional organization that emphasizes leadership development and active engagement within the campus and local community. Members participate in a variety of volunteer activities, building strong connections while fostering personal growth and professional excellence.
Block & Bridle Club: This club is a chapter of a national animal science organization that fosters student interest in a wide range of animal science disciplines. It provides educational opportunities, professional development, and a community for students passionate about animal agriculture and related fields.
Collegiate Farm Bureau: This is an agricultural advocacy organization committed to educating the public through a variety of events and outreach activities. The group promotes awareness of agricultural issues and fosters leadership skills among students interested in the agriculture industry.
Delta Tau Alpha: National Agriculture Honor Society for students who rank in the upper 35% of their class.
FHSU Rodeo Club: Open to all FHSU students and provides opportunities to compete in rodeo events across the region. The club fosters a community for students interested in rodeo sports while promoting skill development and sportsmanship.
FHSU Livestock Judging Team: Open to all FHSU students interested in competitive livestock evaluation. The team offers hands-on experience and skill development in assessing livestock, preparing members for careers in agriculture and related industries.
Sigma Alpha Agriculture Sorority: This sorority is a professional organization dedicated to cultivating leadership and professional development among women pursuing careers in agriculture. The sorority fosters a supportive community focused on advancing women’s roles within the agricultural industry.
Teaching Ag Group (TAG): TAG supports agricultural literacy and advocacy by collaborating with local FFA chapters. The group is dedicated to promoting agricultural education and engaging the community in the importance of agriculture.
Virtual Agricultural Business Club: This is an online, student-led organization that promotes professional business development for aspiring agricultural professionals. The club provides opportunities for networking, skill-building, and career preparation within the agricultural industry.
Livestock Show Team

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