Master of Arts in Economics

Program Overview

The Master of Arts in Economics program provides a comprehensive understanding of economic principles and theories, emphasizing analytical skills and statistical analysis software proficiency. It offers both thesis and coursework-only tracks, allowing students to tailor their studies to their career goals in data science, analytics, government, and policy. Graduates are well-equipped for positions in economic research, policy analysis, and data-driven decision-making.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

• Overview: The Master of Arts in Economics program is designed for students with a diverse range of backgrounds in economics, from those with little previous exposure to those who majored in economics as undergraduates.
The program emphasizes the development of analytical skills and experience in statistical analysis software, equipping graduates for careers in data science, analytics, government, and policy.
• Objectives: The program aims to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of economic principles and theories, develop their analytical skills through the use of statistical analysis software, and offer flexibility to pursue specific interests within the field.
• Description: The M.A.
in Economics program offers both a thesis and a coursework-only track, allowing students to tailor their studies to their individual goals. Students in the thesis track complete 24 hours of coursework and 6 hours of thesis work, while those in the coursework-only track complete 30 hours of coursework. The program is typically completed in 1.5 academic years.

Careers:

• Potential Career Paths: The program prepares students for careers in various fields, including data science, analytics, government, and policy.
• Opportunities: Graduates of the program are equipped with the skills and knowledge necessary to pursue positions in areas such as economic research, policy analysis, and data-driven decision-making.
• Outcomes: An M.A.
in Economics degree provides a strong foundation for careers in a wide range of sectors, and graduates are well-positioned to contribute to economic analysis, research, and policy development.

Other:

• Facilities and Services: Students in the M.A.
and Ph.D. programs have access to the department's computer laboratory, equipped with various databases and econometric software packages for economic research. This complements the general KU computing and library facilities available to all students.
• Core Courses: The program includes three required core courses: ECON 700, ECON 701, and ECON 715.
These courses contribute towards the 18 hours of 700+ level coursework requirement for the degree.
• Electives: Students can choose up to 9 hours of electives from related fields such as business administration, computer science, political science, or mathematics, subject to the approval of their M.A.
advisor.
• Plan of Study: The program provides a suggested course schedule for new students, with ECON 700 and 2 electives in the first fall semester, followed by ECON 701, ECON 715, and 1-2 electives in the first spring semester.
Electives are then selected to complete the required 30 credit hours.
• Doctoral Level Courses: Doctoral level theory courses (ECON 801, ECON 810, ECON 817) can be substituted for or taken in addition to the corresponding master's level courses (ECON 700, ECON 701, ECON 715).