MFARE Food, Agricultural and Resource Economics

Program Overview

The MFARE degree requires completion of course work and a major research paper or group consultancy project. It allows students to tailor their program to their particular interests, specifically in:

• Agri-food sector and policy analysis; and

• Agri-food sector management analysis.

Admission Requirements

Students entering the Master of Food, Agricultural and Resource Economics program must have achieved  the University required minimum 70% (B-) average or equivalent.  Based on our experience, successful applicants tend to have a higher GPA, closer to 75% .  In addition, they are expected to have already taken, the following basic courses:

• Intermediate level micro- and macro-economic theory (ECON*2310 and ECON*2410 or equivalent)  *
• Calculus and matrix algebra with applications to economics (ECON*2770 or equivalent)

• Intermediate level statistics (ECON*3740 or equivalent)

*  Advanced microeconomic theory course at the undergraduate level is strongly recommended as preparation for the course work in the MFARE program.

The Graduate Program Committee examines each application before the student is proposed to the Office of Graduate Studies for admission into the program.  Applications are assessed based on previous courses taken, grades, referee assessments, CV/Resume and Statement of Intent. Meeting the minimum requirements for entry does not guarentee a position with the department of FARE.

To convert grades from outside Canada to the Guelph equivalent, please use the International Credential Guidelines. 

Degree Requirements

The Master of Food, Agricultural and Resource Economics focuses on the development of knowledge and skills in the application of economic analysis and quantitative methods, and their application to the food, agricultural and natural resource sectors. The program has a particular focus on policy and business decisions within the food, agricultural and natural resource sectors, enabling students to analyze issues and problems in a complex world and to communicate with a diverse audience. Through the program, students have opportunities to engage with policy, business, and civil society stakeholders, setting them up for success in their career when they complete their graduate studies.

Students must successfully complete the following requirements, totaling 4.0 credits:

ONE of the following:

ONE of the following:

Any THREE of the following Restricted Electives:

Agri-Food Sector and Policy Analysis

Agri-Food Sector Management Analysis

Course descriptions are found in the Graduate Calendar, under XIV. Course Descriptions, Food, Agricultural and Resource Economics.

MFARE Student Advising

Throughout their program, students are advised by the MFARE Graduate Program Coordinator.

Students choosing the Major Paper option are required to work under the supervision of a named faculty member in the Department of Food, Agricultural and Resource Economics. A second graduate faculty member will act as the second reader.

The Advisory Committee is responsible for reviewing the progress of the student as well as the student's prescribed schedule of studies.  The Advisory Committee should be consulted prior to registration each semester.  The day-to-day responsibility of the students’ progress rests with the Advisor.  A list of prescribed courses for each student is agreed with the Advisory Committee.

Please note: The Master of Food, Agricultural and Resource Economics program offered by the Department must follow all regulations of the Office of Graduate Studies. These are given in the University of Guelph's Graduate Calendar under General Regulations. The information provided in these pages is provided for guidance only.