Resource Economics and Environmental Sociology Graduate Programs
Resource Economics and Environmental Sociology (REES) focuses on research in the disciplines of Environmental and Resource Economics, Economics of Agriculture, Food & Agribusiness, Environmental and Resource Sociology, International Development.
Graduate education provides an excellent background for careers in private business, government service or research. The programs offered are in the sub-disciplines of agricultural and resource economics, forest economics and rural & environmental sociology.
Which REES graduate program is right for you? See the University Calendar or eligibility at-a-glance.
REES Graduate Programs
Master of Agriculture (MAg)
1 year (12 months)
The MAg is a course-based degree with a focus in one of two areas: agricultural economics (agriculture and food policy, consumption, resources and environmental sustainability), or rural and environmental sociology (social movements, risk, resilience and Indigenous studies).
Master of Science (MSc)
2-2.5 years (24-30 months)
The MSc is a thesis-based master's degree with a focus on research. Specialize and develop skills in research and scientific communication, and prepare for doctoral studies, or for employment with industry or the government.
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
4-6 years (48-60 months)
The PhD program is a four-year research-based program with three possible areas of specialization:
- Agricultural and Resource Economics
- Rural and Environmental Sociology
- Forest Economics
"The REES graduate program gave me the tools I needed for a career in economics and policy, opening doors for me to work in academia, in government, or with research organizations in Canada or abroad. With high-quality instruction, small class sizes, and one-on-one support from my supervisors, I was able to learn from experts while completing a thesis that used cutting-edge techniques to tackle real-world problems. I would highly recommend REES to anyone looking for a career in economics or policy!"
– Meghan Lim, who works with the Policy Analyst Recruitment and Development (PARDP) program, Natural Resources Canada, and as a policy analyst for the Two Billion Trees program, Canadian Forest Service
Areas of Study
Agricultural and Resource Economics
Agricultural economics is an applied field that typically explores issues related to agriculture, food production, and consumption. Resource economics seeks to understand the supply and demand of natural resources, their role in the economy, and how to manage them for long term sustainability. These fields also make significant contributions to environmental issues.
Master of Agriculture | Master of Science | MBA/MAg | PhD | Our Research
Rural & Environmental Sociology
Rural sociology examines social structure and social change in rural areas, as well as issues such as food and agriculture, forestry, mining and energy development.
Master of Agriculture | Master of Science | MBA/MAg | PhD | Our Research
Forest Economics
Forest Economics focuses on public policy and regulatory issues in the forestry sector. It explores the roles of institutions and property rights in regulating the timber supply, and the provision, production, and trading of forest resources and products.
Risk and Community Resilience (Interdisciplinary)
Risk and Community Resilience examines different aspects of social-ecological relations, challenging us to think about how peoples, locally and globally, see and respond to changes in their environment including those associated with ecological variability, climate change, and natural resource development.
"My experience in the Resource Economics and Environmental Sociology program at the U of A was transformative, providing a rich interdisciplinary approach to understanding complex environmental issues. The program fostered critical thinking and equipped me with valuable analytical tools to address real-world challenges in resource management and sustainability. Additionally, the supportive community of faculty and peers encouraged innovation, enriching my academic journey and personal growth."
– Duyen Truong, Performance Management Analyst, Department of Seniors, Community and Social Services, Government of Alberta
Current Students
Students at the University of Alberta are responsible for the accuracy and completeness of their program requirements. They are bound by the contents of the University Calendar and standards contained therein.
Access Forms, Important Links, Department Website, and Graduate Program Manuals
Contact Us
Graduate Student Services Office
2-06 Agriculture Forestry Centre
Email us to set up an appointment, or visit us during business hours on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays.