Master’s Program in Economics
Applied Economics
The master of science in applied economics is primarily a terminal degree that prepares students for positions in industry, private consulting firms, local, regional and national policy making agencies, private not–for–profit organizations, and community/regional economic planning and development agencies.
Although not required, many students in this program choose to serve an internship. Recently students have found internships a state-wide environmental advocacy group, a municipal economic development agency, and a nationally recognized macroeconomic consulting firm.
Graduate Employment
The department graduates an average of slightly over seven master’s students a year, which is about the average for the university and above average for research master’s degrees. Graduates are competitive in the job market.
Our students have found employment with a variety of public and private institutions, including a private environmental consulting firm, AT&T, and the Federal Reserve Bank. During their schooling, in addition to finding employment, our graduates have found that studying economics leads to a fulfilling career.
Program Requirements
Regardless of which master's degree is chosen, a student must earn a minimum of 30 credits above a bachelor's degree for Plan A (thesis) or Plan B (paper) or 33 credits for Plan C (coursework only).
A student must also complete additional class or research requirements to meet Plan A, B, or C graduation requirements.
Plan A: minimum of 6 research credits
Plan B: maximum of 3 research credits
M.S. in Applied Economics
Fall Semester (9 credits)
Macroeconomic Theory I (Econ 6000)
Microeconomic Theory I (Econ 6100)
Applied Econometrics (Econ 6330)
Spring Semester (8 credits)
Research Methods (Econ 6060)
Quantitative Analysis (Econ 6300)
Specialization Course
Fall Semester
Specialization Course
Other courses as required
Specialization Sequences:
Natural Resource and Environmental Economics
Introduction to Natural Resource Economics (Econ 6500)
Introduction to Environmental Economics (Econ6510)
Regional and Community Economic Development
Regional/Community Economic Development (Econ 6700)
Community Planning/Impact Analysis (Econ 6710)
Students must complete at least one economics course at the 6000 level outside the required core and specialization.