ACE 432: Farm Management
ACE 432 is a class in farm management. We combine insights from microeconomic theory and empirical tools of applied economics to address farm level decision making. We generally focus on Midwest grain farms but try to touch on other areas of agriculture throughout the semester.
Prerequisites (Must be complete BEFORE taking this course):
ACE 232; credit or concurrent registration in ACE 360 or equivalent
Instructor Teaching the Course:
This course is taught by the instructor below. You may click on their name to learn more about them. Teaching schedules vary by semester. Please check the Course Explorer for the most up-to-date information about the sections they will teach.
Todd Kuethe
View the Course Explorer:
See when the course is offered as well as section details here: https://courses.illinois.edu/schedule/terms/ACE/432
Fall 2018 Restrictions
None!
Additional Course Information
Read more about what Dr. Kuethe has to say about ACE 432!
Is this class discussion-based or lecture-based?
ACE 432 offers a mix of lecture, discussion, and in-class activities. For any given decision that a farmer makes, we try to look at it through the lense of microeconomic theory and figure out how to apply the tools of applied economics.
How are students evaluated (e.g. multiple choice or essay tests, papers, etc.)?
ACE 432 consists of a few written exams and a series of short homework assignments that prepare the students for the exam. Students also prepare written responses and in-class discussion of a number of farm management case studies. Finally, student complete a course project on a management decision of their choosing.
What careers does this course help prepare students to pursue?
A number of ACE 432 students apply the course lessons to their own farms, but an even greater number work with farmers as lenders, input dealers, or management consultants.
What courses can students take to prepare for this material?
The typical student in ACE 432 has taken a number of entry-level courses in management, finance, or accounting. Many students also have technical training in the agricultural sciences. It’s best if a student has completed either one or both of these tracks prior to taking ACE 432.
In what ways does this course prepare students to move through the program and/or into the work force?
The course demonstrates how the tools of applied economics can be combined with critical thinking to address important decisions. While we focus on farm management decisions, many of these skills have more general application, such as investing, risk management, or human resource management.
What is your background in Agricultural and Consumer Economics?
In addition to teaching ACE 432, I’m also an active researcher and extension educator. I’ve had the opportunity to work on a number of questions that are important to production agriculture, with a focus on finance, risk management, and policy. I try to bring the skills of a professional economist into the class room.
What is your attendance policy?
ACE 432 students are professionals, and they treat our classroom as a professional environment. Students who attend regularly tend to better in the class. I leave the rest up to them.