MFARE (course-based), MSc (thesis-based), PhD
Applications are now open for our MFARE and MSc programs, with the deadline set for:
February 1, 2025- for International Students
June 1, 2025- for Domestic Students
*If you require assistance or further information, please contact faregrad@uoguelph.ca*
Programs
The graduate programs in Food, Agricultural and Resource Economics offer opportunities for course-based and thesis-based Master degrees and a Doctor of Philosophy.
The thesis-based Master of Science (MSc) and Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) are research-oriented degrees which require both course work and a thesis. The course-based Master of Food, Agricultural and Resource Economics (MFARE) degree requires either course work with a major research paper or course work alone.
The MSc can be completed in approximately 5 or 6 semesters, MFARE in 4 to 5 semesters while the PhD program requires the successful completion of a qualifying exam and the completion and defense of a research-based thesis in 12 semesters.
Optimal Learning Environment
Graduate students in the department are treated as colleagues. We recognize that you are placing your trust in us to deliver a superior learning experience - a learning experience that will largely determine the path of your career and your ability to make a difference in the world. We want your path to be filled with challenging and rewarding opportunities. The department is extremely collegial and faculty welcome student interaction in and out of the classroom. Students receive significant one-on-one attention and many students publish with their faculty.
Graduate Student Funding Opportunities
Many of our graduate students are employed as Graduate Research or Teaching Assistants and many compete successfully for University scholarships.
- MFARE students may receive funding, but it is not guaranteed. You must have your own funding to pursue this option.
- M.Sc. students funded upwards of $22,000 per year.
- Ph.D. students funded upwards of $30,000 per year.
Sampling of Faculty Research
Faculty undertake research on a wide array of timely and relevant issues, including:
- Consumer perceptions regarding food safety and new food products;
- Biofuels and the foods versus fuel debate;
- Impacts of regional and global trade agreements;
- Effects of legal institutions on resource use and the environment.
How our Graduates Are Improving Society
Our students apply their rigorous training and research experience in a number of rewarding ways. Many of our graduates have taken positions at the Ontario Ministry of Agricultural, Food, and Rural Affairs, Health Canada, and Forestry Canada. Others have joined private firms or opened highly successful consulting businesses. Many have pursued their Ph.D. at top-tier departments, including Guelph, and now are highly successful professors.
Click below on the program you are interested in for the Self-Assessment Questionnaire:
MFARE or MSc program? PhD program?
Master's Degrees With A Difference
Pursuing a master's degree with FARE is a decision to pursue a highly sought-after degree that will help you Improve Life. Discover specific career pathways of FARE master's graduates by industry sector and employment category.
For more information on Master's Employment Destinations from the OAC, download Master's Destinations Project Overview or visit OAC Graduate Destinations
PhDs With Impact
PhD graduates from the University of Guelph’s Department of Food, Agricultural and Resource Economics have careers in diverse fields. A PhD is valuable and sought by domestic and international employers in all sectors.
For more information on PhD Employment Destinations from the OAC, download Doctoral Destinations Project Overview or visit OAC Graduate Destinations