Agricultural cooperatives

This course is aimed at those of you who want to learn more about agricultural cooperatives, their characteristics, role and aim. The theoretical basis of the course is based on academic journal articles, study visits, guest lectures and a possibility for students to focus on a topic of individual interest in a course-PM. Agricultural cooperatives are a widespread phenomenon throughout the world. One key goal of the course is to explain and exemplify the cooperative organization and its role in agricultural markets. Of great importance is how these organizations are governed and challenges that are facing them. Also, comparisons are made, between agricultural cooperatives from different parts of the world, aiming at students getting an understanding of the role and farmer-benefits of cooperatives. You will read several recent journal articles focusing agricultural cooperatives worldwide, and also be introduced to theories that can be used to analyze agricultural cooperatives. In addition, study visits and guest lectures will increase your understanding of these organizations. Also, a course-essay is an important part of the course, giving a possibility for students to ‘dig deeper into’ a topic related to agricultural cooperatives.