Food Industry Management is a sequence within the agribusiness major. The program emphasizes the application of management, marketing, finance, and other business concepts with particular emphasis on portion of the agribusiness industry after the first purchaser of raw agricultural commodities. This portion of the industry includes the marketing, processing, and distribution of food and related products.
The food industry is a major component of the U.S. economy. Broadly defined, the agriculture industry, which includes the food industry, accounts for about 20 percent of total U.S. employment and approximately 17 percent of gross domestic product. The greatest growth potential for employment opportunities is projected to be in the fields of marketing, merchandising, and sales particularly in the food distribution system. This program is specifically designed to prepare students for employment opportunities in these areas.
Food Industry Management students are encouraged to enhance their classroom experiences by participating in our internship program. On average the Department of Agriculture has 36 students completing internships each summer. The University Farm provides hands-on experiences and many employment opportunities are also available. Students have the opportunity to participate in the France Exchange Program and our student organizations, including NAMA help develop leadership skills and provide opportunities to network with fellow students, faculty, and professionals.
The Department of Agriculture offers several scholarships, and interested students should apply. Applications for incoming students and current majors are available online. In addition to the University sponsored career events, the department hosts a Career Fair specifically geared toward the students seeking internships and full-time employment in the agriculture industry.
We encourage prospective students to visit campus and meet with a representative from our department. To arrange a tour of campus please contact the Office of Admissions. For more information about the Agriculture Department or to arrange to meet with us in-person please contact our department advisor, (309) 438-8767.
In addition to the core courses in the Agribusiness major, these additional courses are required.
Concepts of food-animal products (meat, dairy, eggs) including their nutritive value, packaging, marketing chain, and value-added technology.
Application of quantitative concepts and methods to the analysis and financial management of proprietary and cooperative agribusiness firms.
Marketing management and decision-making as they relate to corporate and cooperative marketing and strategic problem solving in the food industry.
View the online Undergraduate Catalog for more about curriculum requirements, course descriptions, general education requirements, and additional degree requirements.
Possible Job Titles and Functions in Food Industry Management |
Potential Employers of Food Industry Management Graduates |
Market Analyst Ingredient Purchaser Logistics Manager Sales and Marketing International Marketing |