Agricultural and applied economics is a field of study that combines principles of economics with practical issues in agriculture, food systems, natural resources, and rural development. It explores how economic theory and quantitative methods can be used to analyze and solve problems related to the production, distribution, and consumption of agricultural goods and services. Students learn about market behavior, policy analysis, resource management, and the economics of development, often with a focus on improving decision-making in agricultural businesses, government, and non-governmental organizations. The course prepares graduates to address real-world challenges such as food security, environmental sustainability, rural poverty, and agricultural trade by applying economic reasoning and data-driven analysis.