Agricultural Economics - MSc

'Coming from a background in agronomy and farm management, I joined the MSc. in Agricultural Economics to fulfil the will to pursue a career specialization in international agricultural and food economics. Studying at GIIDAE was an highly rewarding experience learning with an excellent academic body, in an enriching multicultural environment amongst colleagues from different backgrounds and experiences.

The flexibility between core and optional modules covering a wide range of contemporary topics related with economics, agriculture and development, trade, agricultural policies and the environment, enabled me to acquire a strong set of skills and knowledge about current world agriculture and food issues and their impact worldwide.

I particularly enjoyed how some of the topics discussed in class generated discussions extending long after school time, having a strong role in strengthening relations and building friendships. After this great year had come to an end, these relations and friendships evolved into an international network of friends and professional contacts that remain for live.

Now, equipped with these new tools, I feel fully prepared to embrace the career specialization I was seeking before the programme, in international projects related with agricultural and rural development or related with economic analysis and market research.

Now employed as rice research analyst in Geneva.'

'Studying at the University of Reading has been a fulfilled dream. I enjoyed a conducive learning environment; with excellent cordial relationship among students and lecturers from diverse countries and cultures. I also gained a wealth of knowledge and professional skills from dedicated and experienced lecturers who were always ready to attend to students.

The MSc Agricultural Economics course has helped me to gain a wider understanding of practical applications of economic concepts and policies to promote global agricultural development. It has also helped me improve greatly on analytical skills, econometrics and other professional skills to build upon my career. The study in general has been designed to address real life situations and concrete problems of agriculture and economic development in different parts of the world. Generally, the multi-cultural mix, and practical sessions of the modules have impacted positive changes on the character of my person, and helped me to develop a good team work attitude, presentation skills and self confidence.

Indeed, the University of Reading has been a great family; I will always like to associate in the future.

I am now an academic staff of a federal tertiary institution in my country; a job I will do with confidence having acquired such great expertise at Reading.'

'Studying at GIIDAE is a unique experience to thrive in a completely mulitcultural environment and an extremely enriching opportunity to learn from people all from all over the world.'