Masters in Economics Programs in the USA: Top 11

1 Economics, M.A.

University of South Florida · Tampa

• DeliveryOn campus
• Study modeFull time
• Starts2 years
• Research citations8,256,290

The M.A. in Economics prepares students for careers as professional economists in business and government. It is also excellent preparation for continued graduate study in economics.

Entry requirements, as the university states them

• GRE with target scores of 152 (490) on the verbal portion and 152 (670) on the quantitative portion.
• Minimum of 1 course in calculus.*
• Minimum of 1 course in statistics.*
• Undergraduate Intermediate-level microeconomics and undergraduate intermediate-level macroeconomics*

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2 Masters Economics

The University of Texas at Dallas

• DeliveryOn campus
• Study modeFull time
• Duration1–2 years
• StartsFall, Spring
• Research citations3,709,730

The Master's Degree in Economics at The University of Texas at Dallas offers a comprehensive and rigorous study of economic theory, quantitative methods, and policy analysis.

The program is designed for students who aspire to develop a robust understanding of economic principles and their applications in both public and private sectors. Students will engage with advanced topics in macroeconomics, microeconomics, and econometrics, enabling them to analyze complex economic models and data effectively.

The program typically spans over two years and includes a combination of core courses and electives, allowing students to tailor their education according to their career goals. Courses may include Behavioral Economics, Game Theory, and International Trade, among others.

Through these courses, students will not only acquire theoretical knowledge but also practical skills such as data analysis, statistical reasoning, and economic forecasting.

Studying Economics at The University of Texas at Dallas provides students with unique insights into how economic principles operate within the context of one of the most dynamic economies in the United States.

Texas is renowned for its diverse economic landscape, making it an ideal place for students to learn about real-world applications of economic theories.

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3 Economics, MA

George Mason University · Virginia

• DeliveryOn campus
• Study modeFull time
• Starts1 year
• Research citations3,442,295

The Master of Arts in Economics is noted for its emphasis on comparative institutional analysis and its concentration on the relationships among economic, political, and legal institutions.

The specific areas associated with the department include experimental economics, Austrian economics, public choice, constitutional political economy, law and economics, and new institutional economics. The program strengthens students' knowledge of economic theory and improves their skills in applying the theory to economic problems.

Graduates are qualified to read and judge other research and conduct their own, either individually or as members of government or business teams. They are also prepared to write policy analyses. Students who plan to pursue a PhD in Economics should apply directly to the doctoral program.

The MA in Economics is offered as an on-campus delivery format or as a fully online delivery format. Separate application processes are used for each delivery format and students must matriculate though only one delivery format for the entire completion of degree.

Students must complete the MA in Economics degree within six years from time of first admission.

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4 Agricultural Economics (M.S.)

N New Mexico State University

• DeliveryOn campus
• Study modeFull time
• Duration1–2 years
• StartsFall, Spring
• Research citations2,388,227

The Master of Science in Agricultural Economics at New Mexico State University-Carlsbad delves into the intricate relationship between agricultural practices and economic principles. This program provides students with a comprehensive understanding of economic theories as they apply to agricultural production, distribution, and consumption.

Students will explore critical issues such as resource management, agricultural policy formulation, and market analysis, equipping them with the tools necessary to navigate the complexities of the agricultural sector. Throughout the course, students engage in a combination of theoretical learning and practical application.

The curriculum typically includes subjects such as agricultural finance, econometrics, food marketing, and rural development economics. These courses are designed not only to enhance students' analytical skills but also to provide them with real-world insights through case studies and fieldwork.

The program emphasizes the development of critical thinking and problem-solving skills essential for addressing contemporary agricultural issues. By studying in New Mexico, students benefit from the region's rich agricultural landscape, providing hands-on experience in diverse farming practices and economic models.

Jobs graduates go into

• Rural Development Coordinator
• Food and Agricultural Consultant

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5 Masters Economics

C California State University, Fullerton

• DeliveryOn campus
• Study modeFull time
• Duration1–2 years
• StartsFall, Spring
• Research citations1,543,887

The Master's in Economics at California State University-Fullerton offers an in-depth exploration of economic theories, quantitative methods, and real-world applications. This comprehensive program is designed to equip students with the analytical skills necessary to understand and solve complex economic issues.

Over the course of their studies, students delve into microeconomic and macroeconomic principles, econometrics, and various electives that allow for specialization in areas such as international economics and labor economics.

The typical structure of the program includes core courses, electives, and a capstone project or thesis, providing students with both theoretical knowledge and practical experience. Students engage with contemporary economic problems, enhancing their critical thinking and analytical capabilities.

Classes are delivered through a combination of lectures, seminars, and group projects, fostering collaboration and real-time application of concepts. Studying Economics in California, a hub of innovation and diversity, affords students unique insights into global markets, policy-making processes, and economic development.

The location provides access to extensive networking opportunities with professionals in the field and the chance to participate in internships or research projects that can enhance learning and career prospects.

Jobs graduates go into

• Academician or Researcher in Economics
• International Trade Specialist

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6 Masters Economics

W Wright State University

• DeliveryOn campus
• Study modeFull time
• Duration1–2 years
• StartsFall, Spring
• Research citations1,483,197

The Master's Degree in Economics at Wright State University offers a comprehensive exploration of economic theories, quantitative methods, and critical analysis. The course is structured to enhance students' understanding of micro and macroeconomic principles, emphasizing the application of economic analysis to real-world problems.

Students engage in rigorous coursework that combines theoretical frameworks with practical applications, preparing them for advanced work in the field. Throughout the program, students will develop essential skills in data analysis, statistical software utilization, and economic modeling.

The curriculum includes modules on econometrics, international economics, labor economics, and public policy, allowing for a well-rounded education that caters to various interests within the discipline. By engaging in collaborative projects and research, students will also refine their teamwork and communication abilities.

Studying in the United States provides unique insights into the global economy and unparalleled access to diverse economic datasets and case studies. Students benefit from experienced faculty and the university's connections with local businesses and government agencies, creating ample opportunities for networking and internships.

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7 MS Behavioral and Computational Economics

C Chapman University

• DeliveryOn campus
• Study modeFull time
• Research citations374,510

The MS Behavioral and Computational Economics program helps students use economic models and experimental procedures effectively. It also builds skills to implement economic modeling techniques in both experimental and computational settings, along with the ability to formulate statistical models and hypotheses and analyze data.

Students learn to create useful depictions of data and theory. The program emphasizes communication and research reasoning.

Students demonstrate effective written and verbal communication, understand the social impact of an economic problem in relation to existing literature, and explain the validity and methodology of their research in homework, presentations, and a thesis.

It also focuses on interactive decision-making environments where participants strategically respond to reach competitive or cooperative goals.

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8 Masters Global Health Economics, MHS

Edinboro University of Pennsylvania

• DeliveryOn campus
• Study modeFull time
• Duration9-month academic program
• Research citations25,190

The Master of Health Science (MHS) in Global Health Economics is a 9-month academic program that teaches students how to use economic tools to address global health problems.

Students study how health economics can address issues such as migration, displaced persons, climate change, and pandemics, and how it can support healthy lifestyles, positive health outcomes, and equitable access to care.

Students use applied health cases to conduct economic evaluations of health programs and to evaluate how social problems affect community or population health. The program includes nine months of academic coursework in economics, econometrics, economic evaluation, and epidemiology, plus specialty elective courses in international health topics.

Assessment includes a written comprehensive exam and a scholarly paper that integrates material from multiple courses. PH.550.860 Academic & Research Ethics

Entry requirements, as the university states them

• AS.280.380 Global Health Principles and Practices (B or higher)
• AS.280.345 Public Health Biostatistics or EN.553.311 Probability and Statistics for the Biological Sciences and Engineering (B or higher)
• AS.280.350 Fundamentals of Epidemiology (B or higher)
• AS.180.101 Elements of Macroeconomics (B or higher)
• AS.180.301 Intermediate Microeconomics or its advanced equivalent 180.434 (B or higher)

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9 Master of Science in Agriculture in Agricultural Economics

A Alcorn State University

• DeliveryOn campus
• Study modeFull time
• DurationTime to degree completion policy allows
• Research citations21,191

The Master of Science in Agriculture in Agricultural Economics at Alcorn State University has a concentration in Agricultural Economics. Students analyze contemporary aspects of U.S. agricultural production and distribution and gain preparation for agricultural economics and related industries, including admission into doctoral programs.

The curriculum requires 33 credit hours of coursework and a non-thesis project for degree completion, with an option to complete a thesis. Students complete 21 hours of required core credits and 12 hours of required electives.

The non-thesis track produces a five-chapter paper, and the thesis track includes an oral defense for progression to degree completion, with thesis chapters and experimental design coursework.

AE 510 Resource DevelopmentAE 511 Theory of Agricultural Demand Agriculture ProductionAE 515 Economics of Consumer BehaviorAE 520 Advanced Farm Organization and ManagementAE 525 Advanced MarketingAG 610 Thesis IPS 590 Advanced Research TechniquesAG 611 Thesis IIAG 612 Thesis IIIPS 595 Experimental DesignsAB 604 Agribusiness International TradeAE 508 Rural Economic and Community Development

Entry requirements, as the university states them

• Two letters of recommendation
• Official transcripts from the sending school, and Credential Evaluations (International students) from an approved Credential Evaluation Service.

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10 Master of Arts in Economics, Data, and Policy (2 years)

College of Eastern Utah

• DeliveryOn campus
• Study modeFull time
• Duration2 years
• StartsFall, Spring
• Research citations1,871

The Master of Arts in Economics, Data, and Policy at the College of Eastern Utah is an interdisciplinary program designed to provide students with a strong foundation in economic theory, quantitative analysis, and public policy.

This course covers a range of topics including micro and macroeconomic principles, statistical methods, and econometrics, equipping students with the analytical skills needed to interpret data and make informed decisions. Moreover, the curriculum is designed to confront real-world issues, encouraging students to apply their knowledge to current economic challenges.

Throughout the course, students will engage in collaborative projects and case studies, enhancing their ability to work in teams and communicate complex ideas effectively. The program not only emphasizes theoretical knowledge but also focuses on practical skills such as data collection, analysis, and interpretation.

This blend of theory and practice prepares graduates for a variety of career paths in the global economy. Studying at the College of Eastern Utah offers unique advantages, including access to experienced faculty members who are active researchers in the field of economics.

International students will benefit from the culturally diverse environment and the opportunity to engage with a wide range of perspectives.

Jobs graduates go into

• International Development Specialist

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11 Business Analytics/Applied Economics (4+1), BSBA/MS

N North Dakota University System

• DeliveryOn campus
• Study modeFull time
• Research citations508

This 4+1 program leads to two degrees: Business Analytics (BSBA) and Applied Economics (MS). In Business Analytics, you learn advanced analytical tools to solve business problems. In Applied Economics, you acquire, visualize, and analyze data to understand consumers, solve problems, and make smart decisions.

The structure is a combined pathway designed to let you earn two degrees instead of completing them separately. It also includes a discount on the fifth year. The program is aimed at students who want to connect analytical work with economics and data use.

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