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. For those seeking a career dealing with financial markets, the department offers a concentration in Financial Economics as part of its M.A. program.
The M.A. program in economics requires a minimum of 30 semester hours of graduate credit.
Check departmental information for any additional requirements.
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 choose elective courses in applied fields such as public economics, labor economics, or financial 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.
Students with an interest in the Concentration in Financial Economics
Students with an interest in the Concentration in Financial Economics are expected to complete the following courses: ECON 584, ECON 740, ECON 742, ECON 791 and STAT 583.
Comprehensive Examinations
Students having a grade below B in ECON 660 will be required to pass a comprehensive examination in microeconomic theory. Those having a grade below B in ECON 661 will be required to pass a comprehensive examination in macroeconomic theory. 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 660 and ECON 661. 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.
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