Agribusiness

The core curriculum of the MBA in Agribusiness at FHSU includes 8 courses that cover essential business topics. Students in the Agribusiness track will then take specialized courses like Agricultural Risk Management and Strategic Planning in Agricultural Business, focusing on industry-specific challenges and strategies.

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: role and scope of logistics in agribusiness, connect economics development with strategic planning, explore the issues surrounding transaction costs and the principle 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 in Agribusiness course listing by visiting the Academic Catalog.

The career prospects for graduates of the MBA in Agribusiness from Fort Hays State University are diverse and promising. With a degree tailored to the complex and evolving needs of the agricultural sector, graduates are well-positioned to lead, innovate, and grow within their chosen fields.

Agribusiness Manager

An agribusiness manager is responsible for managing agricultural businesses. Their duties include implementing effective strategies to ensure the business's operational efficiency, profitability, and sustainability. This role often requires a deep understanding of agricultural production and business management skills to handle day-to-day operations and long-term planning.

Agricultural Policy Analyst

An agricultural policy analyst critically evaluates and analyzes policies affecting the agricultural sector. They provide expert advice to businesses and governmental agencies, helping them understand the implications of legislative changes and developing strategic responses to align with or counteract these changes. Their work supports the sector's ability to adapt to policy shifts, ensuring that agricultural practices remain sustainable and profitable.

Supply Chain Coordinator

A supply chain coordinator in agribusiness manages the logistics and operations that move products from farms to the market. This role optimizes the supply chain to enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and maintain product quality. They oversee various supply chain stages, including procurement, transportation, storage, and distribution, ensuring that all processes are streamlined and effective.

Risk Management Consultant

A risk management consultant specializing in agribusiness identifies potential risks to agricultural operations and develops strategies to mitigate these risks. These risks can include anything from financial to operational to environmental. Their expertise helps businesses protect assets, ensure stability, and maintain continuity in the face of various uncertainties that could affect agricultural operations.

Market Analyst

A market analyst in the agribusiness sector conducts detailed market research and analysis to assist agricultural businesses in making informed market entry and development decisions. They evaluate market trends, consumer behavior, and competitive landscapes to devise strategies that maximize the business's competitive advantage.

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 you're admitted for the upcoming semester, please submit your application at least 30 days before the start of classes. Applying early helps avoid any delays in your 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.