The M.A. in economics is suitable either for students intending to pursue a Ph.D. in economics or for those seeking a practical program of study to prepare them for technical or administrative positions in business or government.
The M.A. program in economics requires 30 semester hours of graduate credit.
or a substantial research paper written in a 500- or 600-level economics course and approved by the professor teaching the course.
Students with an interest in applied economics
Students with an interest in applied economics are expected to enroll in ECON 597, Economic Research Practicum, and to choose elective courses in applied fields such as public economics, labor economics, or urban and regional economics for the remaining hours. Those whose interests are in general economics or who plan to enter the Ph.D. program may elect work in nonapplied areas. In either case, with the prior written consent of the director of graduate studies, students may elect to enroll in up to 6 semester hours of courses related to the student’s field of study offered outside the department.
Comprehensive examinations in microeconomic and macroeconomic analysis will normally be taken by each student in the master’s degree program the first time that these examinations are offered following the completion of ECON 560 and ECON 561.
A student who fails either of these examinations twice will generally not be permitted to continue in the M.A. program. However, in extenuating circumstances a student may submit a written appeal to the department to take an examination a third and final time.
Students having a grade below B in ECON 560 will be required to pass a comprehensive examination in microeconomic theory. Those having a grade below B in ECON 561 will be required to pass a comprehensive examination in macroeconomic theory.
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