For two SEMO students, advancing in a career in agribusiness meant finding a graduate program that fit alongside demanding professional roles. Southeast Missouri State University’s online Master of Science in agribusiness offered that flexibility to Patrick Clark and Ian Graves, while deepening their understanding of the business side of agriculture.
Offered fully online through SEMO’s Department of Agriculture, the program blends practical experience with advanced business and leadership training. It is designed for current professionals and emerging leaders seeking a deeper understanding of agricultural-related business, risk management, marketing and international affairs.
“Our agribusiness master’s program is built around preparing students for the industry,” said Dr. Tammy Randolph, dean of the College of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics and interim agriculture chair. “Our faculty bring firsthand experience from agriculture and agribusiness, so students graduate ready to step into leadership roles.”
Coursework includes advanced agribusiness marketing, agribusiness policy, liability and risk management, agribusiness communication, research methods in agriculture and personnel and operations management.
INTERESTED IN A MASTER'S PROGRAM?
Clark, a current student and business development director for a plant and animal nutrition manufacturer, has found his passion through agribusiness.
“I found along the way that I had a natural skill set geared towards business strategy and market analytics,” said Clark. “I decided to pursue this degree because the curriculum is well thought out and designed to really build solid business professionals in the agriculture sector.”
Graves, a 2023 graduate in agribusiness: horticulture with a minor in architectural design and interior design, completed the master’s program in 2025. He now works as a senior account manager at Quiet Village Landscaping and began his job during his last semester of graduate school. Graves says it couldn’t have come at a better time.
“I was able to have the confidence to dive right in and engage in conversations regarding profit numbers, gross margins, sales and more,” said Graves. “Since graduating, I have been able to increase my skill level and build on the skills the program taught me.”
Clark and Graves encourage others who are considering the program to enroll.
“Stop waiting and get started. The quicker you expand your knowledge and develop your skill sets, the quicker you can build something great,” said Clark.
“Take the leap and do it, even if you are navigating your way through your first full-time position out of college; try out one class at a time,” said Graves. “The information you will learn will help you better understand your job and company. As soon as you learn how the business works, you’ll go from being just a part of the process to running the machine.”
Want to level up your education? Visit semo.edu/ms-agribusiness today.