An online master’s degree in economics may provide the knowledge required to assist businesses in analyzing their place in the market. In this one to two-year program, students may become competent in market analysis, regulatory industry analysis, and financial economics. Program coursework may consist of business-based electives alongside major-specific courses including advanced price theory, personnel economics, and behavioral economics.

Upon graduation, students may either seek employment or pursue a doctoral degree in economics. Master’s-level graduates may gain employment in economic development, utilities, and federal and state programs.

Program Overview

• Prerequisite: Bachelor’s Degree
• Program Length: One to two years to complete
• Post-Grad Options: Employment or Doctoral Program
• Projected Employment Growth: 6% (2010-2020)*

Program Coursework

The curriculum for master’s-level degree programs in economics may consist of specialized electives along with major coursework. These courses may provide students with analytical capabilities in various areas of economics and finance, including economic development, regulatory issues, and financial economics. Core economics courses may include the following:

• Mathematics for Economists
• Empirical Methods in Economics
• Advanced Macroeconomic Theory
• Advanced Price Theory
• Behavioral Economics
• Microeconometrics
• Personnel Economics

Career Options

Master’s-level graduates may gain employment in finance, government, research and development, private business, and consulting. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, those who wish to pursue a career as an economist can expect employment opportunities to increase by 6% from 2010-2020.*

Possible careers include:

• International Economist
• Microeconomics
• Public Finance Economist
• Econometrician
• Labor Economist

Continuing Education

Students who successfully complete a master’s degree in economics may wish to continue their education by enrolling in a doctoral degree program. A doctoral degree in economics may prepare students for a career in academia, allowing them to teach at the post-secondary level.

*U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook