• Group of students walking near the College of Agriculture, Health and Natural Resources, Young Building
  • 3 students presenting their final project in a marketing course
  • students at graduation holding up diploma
  • A farm in Simsbury, CT with a red barn

Welcome to the

Department of Agricultural & Resource Economics

The Department of Agricultural and Resource Economics is rooted in the study of applied economics. We examine how choices made by individuals, businesses, and governments influence markets, natural resources, and policy. Undergraduate programs emphasize critical thinking and hands-on learning that prepare students for success in business, government, and community leadership. Graduate programs build on this foundation through advanced research that informs policy, supports sustainable growth, and strengthens economic decision-making.

Economics for People, the Planet, and Progress.

Undergraduate Program

Build a strong foundation in economic analysis and data-driven decision-making. Our flexible programs connect economics with business, policy, and resource management, helping students apply their skills to challenges in markets, the environment, and sustainable growth.

Graduate Program

Advance your expertise in markets, policy, and sustainability through applied research and faculty mentorship. You'll work closely with faculty on real-world research, and join graduates who shape solutions in academia, government, industry, and international organizations.

Research with Real-World Impacts.

Our faculty lead research on pressing challenges in sustainability, health, markets, and community development, with research that guides effective policy and decision-making. Their work is amplified by the Zwick Center for Food and Resource Policy, which offers practical analysis on food security, energy, and sustainable development.

5 adults, one holding a baby, standing behind a podium in a greenhouse

The Zwick Center for Food and Resource Policy

At the Zwick Center, faculty and campus experts collaborate with community stakeholders to address real-world challenges. By offering services like survey design, statistical analysis, and policy insights, the Center turns research into practical solutions that strengthen food systems, guide sustainable energy use, and build healthier, more resilient communities.

News & Highlights

Cristina Connolly with award

Dr. Connolly receives 2025 CAHNR Excellence in Teaching Award. Mar. 26, 2025. (Jason Sheldon/UConn Photo)


John Keynes was the Founding Father of Macroeconomics and Keynesian Economics which focuses on the causes of prolonged unemployment. His work "The General Theory of Employment, Interest and Money" (1935-36) focused on addressing economic recession through a full employment government sponsored policy.

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Words of wisdom from our recycling and waste expert!

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So that's the view that was hiding under all that ice!

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68 donors. $3,416 raised. Countless opportunities created. 

Thank you for supporting us during UConn Gives. Your generosity helps us continue to grow, support our students, and expand what’s possible.

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You don't need to be a marketing major to add ARE 3222: Marketing and Consumer Behavior to your Fall 2026 schedule!

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Attention Students!

Have plans on 4/28? Well, you do now!

Join the Agricultural and Resource Economics Department for the Sustainable Business Planning Pitch Competition. 

Location: Storrs WW16
Time: 5:00-6:30 pm
Date: 4/28/2026

Hear students from ARE 4215/5215 pitch their sustainable business ideas, and see who takes home $2000 in seed funding to support their new venture. 

Sponsored by both Farm Credit East and Progress Works New England. 

See you there!

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Hi! I’m Addison, a freshman majoring in Environmental and Natural Resource Economics in the ARE Department. 

I’m a member of the Applied and Resource Economics (ARE) club, where I will serve as Vice President next year. I’m currently competing in my first case competition, organized by the club. Upperclassmen who have participated in national and international case competitions have helped me improve skills such as public speaking and data analysis. Many of these peers are participating in the Food Distribution Research Society’s Student Food Marketing Challenge. 

 Your support helps expand these opportunities, allowing students like me to grow academically and obtain experiences that prepare us for professional success. 

Please consider donating today!

#twodaysoneuconn #uconngives26

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Help us raise funds for travel and registration fees for case competitions. We’ve already placed in the top two for the last 6 national and international competitions we’ve entered! 

Help us keep the momentum going and ensure our students have the experiences they need to set them up for success in the future. Link in bio. 

#twodaysoneuconn #uconngives26

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ARE Club Case Competition is tonight!! Student groups will present solutions to a challenge brought by Levo International. Christian Heiden, ARE alum and CEO/Founder of Levo will be in attendance so stop by to say hi and support the presenting teams. 

Stay tuned for details about visiting Levo’s newest hydroponics installation in north Hartford 🌱🌱🌱

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Hi! I’m Isabella, a junior majoring in Environmental and Natural Resource Economics in the ARE Department. This year I’ll be part of the team representing our department in the Food Distribution Research Society’s Student Food Marketing Challenge and I’m so excited!

In this challenge we will research and propose a solution to an issue that a real business is facing. Whether we win or not, using research and presentation skills in this setting will make us all stronger candidates for future jobs. 

Your contributions to UConn Gives can help fund learning opportunities like this and more for students like me! 

Please spread the word and donate today!

#twodaysoneuconn #uconngives26

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