Economics for the real world
Deep historical roots.
The Department of Agricultural and Applied Economics at the University of Wisconsin-Madison was the first such specialized department in the world. Growing from its original focus on issues of land, forests and farm management, the department is continually evolving to address the needs of students, the state of Wisconsin, the nation, and the world.
Ready for the future.
With research, teaching, and outreach focused on environmental and resource economics, agricultural economics, international development, and community economic development, our faculty’s work addresses some of the world’s most pressing current problems. As one of the top departments in the country, the future of AAE is brighter than ever.
Hands-on training key to AAE degree programs
At AAE we’re training the next generation of economists and business leaders. Anchoring that commitment is our experiential learning opportunities for undergraduate and graduate students.
Modern slavery contaminates global supply chains for Brazilian beef and leather
Tara Mittelberg (PhDx’26) and colleagues found that a policy for reducing forced labor in Brazil’s cattle industry is not yet working as intended.
Professional Master’s Program (MSPO) sees continued growth
Now in its seventh year, the Professional Master’s (MSPO) Program continues its annual growth trend. The 2024-2025 incoming class of 19 is an almost 60% enrollment increase over the past two years.
The value of water quality regulation in small-town America
Prof. Rhiannon Jerch examined how U.S. cities paid for, and benefited from, the wastewater treatment plant improvements required by the 1972 Clean Water Act.
On the Fast (4+1) Track to an M.S. degree
From uncertain beginnings to a clear path forward, Ellie Capra found her purpose in the Department of Agricultural & Applied Economics—where flexibility, support, and real-world training helped guide her on a path of exploring her passion.
The economic value of monitoring nitrate in public drinking water
Prof. Jeff Hadachek studied the health benefits of switching to bottled drinking water after reports of excess nitrate levels in tap water.
