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K-State Today

November 5, 2014

Master of Agribusiness offers new course: Economic Issues in the Global Animal Health Industry

Submitted by Mary Bowen

Kansas State University's award-winning Master of Agribusiness program is offering an Internet-based examination of the economics of the animal health and companion animal industry: AGEC 750, Economic Issues in the Global Animal Health Industry. The three-credit, online graduate course provides an interactive study of the economics and business challenges and opportunities confronting the animal health and companion animal industry.

"Economic Issues in the Global Animal Health Industry provides students with a fresh and innovative perspective on the animal industry from a global and a systems perspective," said Vincent Amanor-Boadu, associate professor of agricultural economics and the course instructor. "It conceives of the industry to encompass all decision-makers that influence animal health outcomes — manufacturers, pharmacists and compounders, distributors and retailers, regulators, veterinarians and animal owners."

These issues are important because of the increasing trade in animal and livestock products and the sanitary and health risks they present, the changing regulatory environments as incomes increase around the world, and the increasing number of companies operating in multiple countries under multiple regulatory regimes.

"It is a unique course that comprehensively discusses the economic implications of the social, environmental, regulatory and competition issues confronting the animal health industry," Amanor-Boadu said. "Students get the opportunity to explore the relationships across these issues and leverage them to identify effective responses and discover ways to transform challenges into business opportunities."

Guest lectures from professionals in the animal health industry will provide first-hand perspective and insight into current issues and regulations.

The course is offered from December through March. It is open to anyone interested in the animal health sector. A bachelor's degree and at least two years of professional experience are required. Students should plan to spend an average of five to seven hours per week on the class. This includes lectures, readings, online recitations and homework. To enroll, contact the Master of Agribusiness office at mab@k-state.edu or 785-532-4495.

The Master of Agribusiness is an award-winning, distance-education degree program that focuses on food, animal health and agribusiness management. Students and alumni work in every sector of the food, animal health and agribusiness industry and are located in 40 states in the U.S. and in more than 30 countries.