Economics Department

Master of Science in Economics Program

The Master of Science in Economics Program (MS) was established by the Economics Department in 1967 to offer intensive education in economic theory and analysis. Forty-five quarter units are required to complete the degree. The program was established in the spirit of the University's motto of learning by doing. Students are trained in core courses and fields that would make them job-ready as they graduate with state-of-the-art skills and knowledge. All students take a core of 4 graduate classes: Ec 550 (Graduate Micro), 551 (Graduate Macro), 552 (Graduate Econometrics I), and 553 (Graduate Econometrics II).

The program offers graduate classes in Money and Capital Markets, International Trade and Finance, Environmental and Natural Resource Economics, and Economic Development and Economic Planning. Students in the Program also may take up to 16 units (4 classes) of 400 level economics courses as electives excluding EC 401, 402, and 403, which are intermediate micro and macro theory classes.

As a terminal experience, students complete either a master's thesis or take a series of four comprehensive exams.

Most graduate courses are offered at night to accomodate part time students. The program is designed to allow unconditional admitted students to earn their degree in 6 quarters, unconditional students earn their degree in 6 or 7 quarters (see Admission and Study Plan).