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.

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
Dr. Connolly receives 2025 CAHNR Excellence in Teaching Award. Mar. 26, 2025. (Jason Sheldon/UConn Photo)
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ARE 1400 Course Description: Interdisciplinary exploration of the complex and often controversial production, trade, and consumption of global commodities such as chocolate, coffee, fast fashion, and marine-based resources through both economic and social perspectives. The specific goods studied may change over time to explore timely issues relevant to society. Examines the hidden costs of production - including labor exploitation, environmental degradation, and social injustice - while also considering market dynamics, ethics of consumption, fair trade, and sustainability. Through discussions, in-class activities, and collaborative projects, students develop critical thinking, ethical reasoning, and global awareness.
ARE 1400 Course Description: Interdisciplinary exploration of the complex and often controversial production, trade, and consumption of global commodities such as chocolate, coffee, fast fashion, and marine-based resources through both economic and social perspectives. The specific goods studied may change over time to explore timely issues relevant to society. Examines the hidden costs of production - including labor exploitation, environmental degradation, and social injustice - while also considering market dynamics, ethics of consumption, fair trade, and sustainability. Through discussions, in-class activities, and collaborative projects, students develop critical thinking, ethical reasoning, and global awareness.
Looking for a unique way to spend a weekend in New York, Boston, or New Haven? Visit Community Outreach Alternative Breaks to learn more!
Looking for a unique way to spend a weekend in New York, Boston, or New Haven? Visit Community Outreach Alternative Breaks to learn more!
Add to your spring schedule!!
ARE 1333Q: Introduction to Data and Visualization
Description: The use of Excel tools and commands to organize, analyze, and interpret data and create reports that can be understood by lay audiences in an increasingly data-driven world.
https://catalog.uconn.edu/undergraduate/courses/are/
Add to your spring schedule!!
ARE 1333Q: Introduction to Data and Visualization
Description: The use of Excel tools and commands to organize, analyze, and interpret data and create reports that can be understood by lay audiences in an increasingly data-driven world.
https://catalog.uconn.edu/undergraduate/courses/are/
ARE Micro-Lesson: Shifts in Supply
Let us know what you want our next lesson to be about in the comments!
#educational
ARE Micro-Lesson: Shifts in Supply
Let us know what you want our next lesson to be about in the comments!
#educational
Here`s our favorite study spots! Comment yours!
Here`s our favorite study spots! Comment yours!
Congrats to our undergrad Laura who was selected to participate in the 2026 Cohort of the NASDA Next Generation Students!
Congrats to our undergrad Laura who was selected to participate in the 2026 Cohort of the NASDA Next Generation Students!
Biggest ARE Struggle: Getting people to take your survey.
Best Solution: Shark costume.
Biggest ARE Struggle: Getting people to take your survey.
Best Solution: Shark costume.
New to ARE? This is the class is the perfect match for your spring schedule! Click the link to see the full description! https://catalog.uconn.edu/undergraduate/courses/are/
New to ARE? This is the class is the perfect match for your spring schedule! Click the link to see the full description! https://catalog.uconn.edu/undergraduate/courses/are/
For more info, DM us or email Professor Connolly at cristina.connolly@uconn.edu!
For more info, DM us or email Professor Connolly at cristina.connolly@uconn.edu!
Here`s some of our favorite trees, which one is your favorite??
Here`s some of our favorite trees, which one is your favorite??
Week two, blue skies and plenty of sunshine ☀️ 💙
How are we feeling, Huskies? You got this!
Week two, blue skies and plenty of sunshine ☀️ 💙
How are we feeling, Huskies? You got this!
Congratulations to Joshua Sullivan (ARE ‘13) on being named a Hartford Business Journal 2026 40 under forty honoree. We’re proud to see Joshua recognized for his accomplishments, leadership, and service to the community.
Well deserved, Joshua!
Congratulations to Joshua Sullivan (ARE ‘13) on being named a Hartford Business Journal 2026 40 under forty honoree. We’re proud to see Joshua recognized for his accomplishments, leadership, and service to the community.
Well deserved, Joshua!




