Our accelerated dual-degree program allows students to gain a solid grounding in economics, examine both mainstream and alternative theories, and advance their research as they simultaneously pursue bachelor’s and master’s degrees. We teach students to critically evaluate economic theory so that they can influence policy discussions as a means to positively shape our world. Within our program, students can study a range of specific economic and social policy issues of greatest interest to them. The MS requires completing a policy-oriented internship or taking a comprehensive exam to demonstrate that they can apply what they have learned.
The analytical skills, ability to think outside the box and preparation to conduct insightful research helps prepare our graduates for careers with governmental agencies, policy research organizations, the business sector or within Denver's thriving startup and renewable energy sectors.
What You Will Learn
DU's economics program is unique in its approach. Here are some of the ways we bring economics to life in the classroom.
Perspective
We take a broader view of the discipline than the average U.S. economics program.
Context
We regard the economy as one element of a complex society, so we situate economics as a social science at the center of multiple social factors.
Timeliness
We present alternative perspectives on and historical context for today’s most pressing questions facing economists.
Inquiry
We encourage students to examine and question “received knowledge” to build their critical thinking and writing skills.
Skillsets
We emphasize written assignments and critical thinking in our assessment of student performance as a powerful complement to the quantitative analysis skills students develop while studying economics.
Featured Courses
ECON 3590
Urban Economics
About this Course
Covers topics and issues of economic growth and decline in metropolitan areas, emphasizing urban economic issues. A broad range of policy areas is discussed, including labor market policy, welfare reform, housing policy, racial segregation, transportation, and environmental policy, among others. Restriction: junior standing.
ECON 4050
Origins of Modern Economics
About this Course
This course covers the development of economic theory from the decline of the classical school through the emergence of the Keynesian theory and investigates in detail the structure of the neoclassical theory and the degree to which Keynesian economics provides an alternative. We examine why economists thought that certain theoretical frameworks were better than others and what problems skill remain.
ECON 3970
Environmental Economics
About this Course
This course examines economic perspectives of environmental and resource problems, ranging from peak oil, food crisis, and climate change. Topics include the property-rights basis of polluting problems, environmental ethics, benefit-cost analysis, regulatory policy, incentive-based regulation, clean technology, population growth and consumption, and sustainable development. Restriction: junior standing. Prerequisite: ECON 2020.
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Learn more about advancing your skills and career potential with our dual-degree program in Economics and Social Policy.
