Master of Arts in Economics

Master of Science in Economics

Students who choose a Master of Economics have two options, the Master of Arts or the Master of Science.  The Master of Science is designed to provide the foundation students need to succeed in a Ph.D. program or jobs requiring intensive technical, analytical, and quantitative skills.  The Master of Science provides students with core conceptual knowledge about microeconomics, macroeconomics, and econometrics.  Students may apply these skills through their research, culminating in six credits of thesis if desired.  Alternatively, students choosing the non-thesis option may further their knowledge through additional coursework.  The Master of Arts also emphasizes technical, analytical, and quantitative skills, but provides the flexibility for students to choose a more policy-oriented or applied approach by allowing more electives.

Both programs are designed to be terminal degree programs for individuals who seek careers in applied economics, finance, banking, or law, as well as other professions that require analytical and quantitative skills. The Master of Science provides excellent preparation for those who are considering a Ph.D. in economics, finance, or related field. Applied economists are employed in both the private and public sectors, and are often involved in forecasting, market analysis, policy analysis and advisory activities.

Advisement

The department of economics advises all students enrolled in the master of arts or master of science programs majoring in economics.  Graduate students are also required to take one credit of ECON 794 in addition to the credits required below, unless this requirement is waived by the graduate advisor.  ECON 794 is a one-credit, pass/fail course that consists of a math workshop that is offered the week before classes begin.  Students also participate in a student orientation, departmental seminars, and a job-skills workshop.  All students are required to participate.

Master of Arts Course Requirements
Specific course requirements for the master of arts in economics include:

1. ECON 702 (Advanced Microeconomics)
2. ECON 703 (Advanced Macroeconomics)
   
3. ECON 772 (Applied Econometrics)
   
4. Nine additional credits taken at the 700-level.
   
5. A total of at least 24 credits of graduate-level courses, subject to graduate advisor approval. 
   
6. Six credits of thesis work.
   
7. ECON 794, Seminar, one credit.

The master of arts degree requires a thesis which must be approved by the student’s faculty advisory/ examining committee.  Each candidate’s program of study must be approved by the student’s departmental advisor and the Director of Graduate Studies. Students must also meet all university and college requirements for the master’s degree.

Master of Science Course Requirements (Plan A: Non-Thesis Option)

Specific course requirements for the master of science in economics include:

1. ECON 702 (Advanced Microeconomics)
   
2. APEC 720 ( Microeconomics II)
   
3. ECON 703 (Advanced Macroeconomics)
   
4. ECON 704 (Advanced Macroeconomics II)
   
5. ECON 772 (Applied Econometrics)
   
6. APST 714 (Econometrics I)
   
7. Nine additional credits taken at the 700-level, subject to graduate advisor approval.
   
8. Six additional credits taken at the 600 or 700-level, subject to graduate advisor approval.
   
9. A total of at least 33 credits of graduate-level courses
   
10. ECON 794 (1 credit)

Each candidate’s program of study must be approved by the student’s departmental advisor or the Director of Graduate Studies. Students must also meet all university and college requirements for the master’s degree. 

Master of Science Course Requirements (Plan B:  Thesis Option)

Specific course requirements for the master of science in economics include:

1. ECON 702 (Advanced Microeconomics)
   
2. APEC 720 (Microeconomics II)
   
3. ECON 703 (Advanced Macroeconomics)
   
4. ECON 704 (Advanced Macroeconomics II)
   
5. ECON 772 (Applied Econometrics)
   
6. APST 714 (Econometrics I)
   
7. Six additional credits of approved graduate courses, only three of which may be taken at the 600-level
   
8. Six credits of thesis work
   
9. A total of at least 24 credits of graduate-level courses
   
10. ECON 794 (1 credit)

The master of science degree has an optional thesis, with approval of the graduate advisor.  Six thesis credits may be counted towards the 30 required credits, and the thesis requirements are similar to those for the master of arts in economics. Each candidate’s program of study must be approved by the student’s departmental advisor and the Director of Graduate Studies. Students must also meet all university and college requirements for the master’s degree.

Application Deadlines

In order to be considered for the fall semester, all materials must be received by April 15th. To be considered for Spring admission, application materials must be received by October 15th.

• A baccalaureate (or an advanced) degree from an accredited college or university, or its equivalent.
• An overall grade-point average (GPA) of at least 2.75 or a last-half GPA of at least 3.0 on a 4.0 scale.
• International students must have a minimum TOEFL score of 500.
• Intermediate Microeconomics or comparable undergraduate course.
• Intermediate Macroeconomics or comparable undergraduate course.

• A completed and signed Application for Admission form.
• A non refundable application fee.
• Two official transcripts from each college or university where work has been completed or is in progress.
• The official report of the Graduate Record Exam (GRE) or Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT)

• A personal statement indicating the applicant's educational and career objectives.
• Two letters of recommendation from individuals familiar with the applicant's capabilities and preparedness for graduate study in Economics.
• If applying for an assistantship, the Graduate Assistant Application Form.