At the University of Denver, you'll go beyond conventional economic theories. Our Master of Arts in Economics combines quantitative analysis, policy evaluation, and mathematical modeling with fresh perspectives from heterodox economics. Here, you'll dive into pressing economic and social policy issues, gaining a deeper understanding of how these systems shape the world and influence real-world outcomes.
With the flexibility to choose applied electives in areas like health and environmental economics, you can tailor your studies to focus on the issues that matter most to you.
Your culminating thesis project will challenge you to apply your expertise to real-world economic issues and develop your analytical voice, crafting evidence-based solutions and presenting your findings with clarity and impact.
Start Dates: Fall, Winter, Spring
Curriculum: 45 Credit Hours
Program Length: 2 Years full-time, or 3 Years part-time
30% Percent of graduates who go on to pursue doctoral studies in Economics Department of Economics 2024
77% Percent of past alum surveyed who indicated that they would absolutely recommend the DU economics graduate programs to others Department of Economics 2024
89% Percent of past alum surveyed who felt they made meaningful personal and/or professional connections through the program Department of Economics 2024
Master of Arts in Economics
How our Economics curriculum prepares you for your career
Build connections and expand your professional network
Engage with active DU researchers and influential guest speakers to build meaningful relationships that can enhance your career and broaden your perspective.
Explore policy-oriented field courses
Select from a range of policy-driven courses such as environmental, urban, and health economics, each designed to align with your desired career path.
Develop strong analytical and communication skills
Sharpen your critical thinking and writing abilities while simultaneously mastering quantitative methods and economic theory so you can confidently enter careers in research, consulting, and other analytical roles.
Cultivate essential technical skills
Master advanced research techniques, including econometrics, math for economics, and micro and macroeconomics courses, equipping you with essential expertise for competitive career opportunities.
Consolidate your learning through a capstone paper
Apply your research skills in a thesis project that will prepare you for professional opportunities in fields including research, policy analysis, or economic consulting.
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"Coursework that focused on discussing the history of economic theory and ideas expanded my own understanding of the topic and allowed me to think in an agile manner when approaching both the market research requests from bankers and to understand what to expect with current market uncertainty impacting investment banking."
- Brandon Weiland (MA ’15)
Application Information
Required Courses
- ECON 4670 - Econometrics: Multivariate Regression Analysis for Economists
- ECON 4020 - Advanced Macroeconomic Theory
- ECON 4030 - Advanced Microeconomic Theory
- ECON 4050 - Origins of Modern Economics
- ECON 4993 - Thesis Topic Development and Defense
- ECON 4995 - Independent Research
Electives
Students choose five graduate-level elective courses. Some popular courses for the MA in Economics include:
- ECON 3075 - Marxism
- ECON 4590 - Urban Economics
- ECON 4900 - Growth, Technology and Economic Policy
- ECON 4970 - Environmental Economics
- ECON 4110 - European Economic History
- ECON 3600 - International Monetary Relations
- ECON 3500 - Economic Development
- ECON 4460 - Advanced Topics of Monetary Theory and Policy
- ECON 4480 - Money and Financial Markets
- ECON 4740 - Health Economics
Careers our MA in Economics graduates pursue
With a solid foundation in both quantitative and qualitative analysis, creative problem-solving, and econometric research, our graduates are well-prepared to launch successful careers as economists. Whether in government, policy, research, business, or innovative industries like startups and renewable energy in Denver, they’re making an impact across a wide range of fields.
Economic analyst
Federal or state government
Finance
Nonprofit sector
Pursuing doctoral studies
Get Started on Your MA in Economics
Build your career with a master's degree from the University of Denver’s College of Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences
