This is an introductory course in marketing and economics that will cover operations involved in the movement of agricultural commodities from the farmer to the consumer. Topics will include the historical evolution of current marketing systems, principles and practices involved in commodity marketing, and government policy and regulation.
For each unit of credit, a minimum of three hours per week with one of the hours for class and two hours for studying/preparation outside of class is expected.
The agriculture program at SCCC provides opportunities to further each student’s knowledge of and skills in agricultural operations.
Outcome #1: Read with comprehension, be critical of what they read, and apply knowledge gained from their reading to broader issues of the day.
Outcome #5: Demonstrate the ability to think critically by gathering facts, generating insights, analyzing data, and evaluating information.
- Describe the basics of the futures market and explain how to perform the operation of making a hedge.
- Develop an understanding of how prices are determined in commodity markets.
- Develop risk management tools applicable to commodity markets.
- Identify relevant market information and weigh its impact on commodity markets.
- Describe and examine important policy/regulatory issues that affect the commodity markets both domestically and internationally.
- The history of current marketing systems.
- Principles and practices involved in commodity marketing
- The Futures Market
- The Options Market
- Risk Management (forward pricing, price-later, speculating, and other)
- Price determination in commodity markets
- Government policy and regulations
- Farm Bill
- Futures Trading Act of 1921
- Commodity Exchange Act
- Lecture
- Guest Lecture
- Instructional Videos
- Course Textbooks
- Investments: An Introduction 13th Edition by Herbert B. Mayo
- USDA Website
- Library of Congress Website: “Commodities: A Resource Guide”
- Mastering the Grain Markets: How Profits Are Really Made by Elaine Kub
- SCCC Outcome #1 will be measured and assessed by participation in course discussions and following reading assignments.
- SCCC Outcome#5 will be measured and assessed by the marketing plan project.
Under the Americans with Disabilities Act, Seward County Community College will make reasonable accommodations for students with documented disabilities. If you need support or assistance because of a disability, you may be eligible for academic accommodations. Students should identify themselves to the Mental Health Counselor at 620-417-1106 or go to the Student Success Center in the Hobble Academic building, room A149.