Online Master's Programs in Economics

A specialization in applied economics balances economic theory with its application. Students in this concentration may take classes in labor economics, public economics, or health economics. The program prepares graduates to work in economic policy, public sector jobs, and in specialized fields such as healthcare, insurance, and finance.

While all economics students build quantitative skills, some programs offer a specialization in quantitative research with additional elective courses in the subfield. Graduate students may take courses on microeconometrics, macroeconometrics, business forecasting, and game theory. The specialization emphasizes rigorous mathematical and statistical methods, preparing graduates to work in quantitative research fields.

A subfield of applied economics, an economic policy specialization emphasizes the creation, implementation, and outcome of government economic policies. In addition to building qualitative research skills, economics students in this concentration build policy analysis skills and study the real-world impact of economic policy. Graduates work as policy analysts or research analysts.

Economists analyze data on the production and distribution of economic products. They research trends, evaluate economic issues, and forecast future economic conditions. Many work in state or federal governments, as well as in scientific research, management consulting, and the finance industry. They may work independently or collaborate with other economists and statisticians. Most positions require at least a master’s degree in economics or a closely related field.

Statisticians analyze data, applying mathematical and statistical techniques to solve problems in business, government, healthcare, and other industries. They may work for private companies in the sciences or engineering, for government agencies, or in research and development. Most statisticians hold a degree in economics or a closely related field, and most entry-level positions require a master’s degree.

Budget analysts organize finances, prepare budget reports, and monitor spending for public and private institutions. They may review budget proposals to ensure they comply with regulations, develop budgetary guidelines, make recommendations for financing, and project future financial needs. Employers require at least a bachelor’s degree in economics or a related field, and candidates with a master’s degree may qualify for more advanced positions or higher salaries. Some positions, such as government budget analyst, call for certification.

Financial analysts help businesses and individuals make investment decisions. They analyze stock performance, manage investment portfolios, and research financial data to make projections. Financial analysts also study economic trends, prepare financial reports, and give recommendations on financial decisions. They may work for large financial institutions, in management-level positions in the business sector, or in insurance. While entry-level positions require a bachelor’s in economics or a related major, financial analysts with a master’s degree may qualify for positions as portfolio managers or fund managers.

Economics professors teach classes in economics at the postsecondary level, working in two-year or four-year colleges and universities. In addition to designing classes, creating syllabi, and teaching courses, professors typically conduct research and publish their findings in scholarly journals. While many tenure-track teaching positions require a Ph.D., candidates with a master’s in economics may qualify for instructor, adjunct, or community college positions.

Graduate students benefit from joining professional organizations, which offer meetings, events, and conferences to share research and network with professional economists. Many organizations also offer career centers with job postings, career counseling, and other job-seeking resources. Some organizations publish research, conduct surveys, and provide economic data to members.

Founded in 1885, AEA offers scholarly publications, an annual conference, and resources for students, including guidance on preparing for graduate study in economics and a career center with job listings. The association also offers job market advice, economic data, and information about grants and scholarships.

The IEA promotes worldwide networking opportunities among economists. It hosts meetings and conferences, promotes research programs, and publishes research on current issues in global economics. To encourage collaboration, the IEA publishes working papers on its website, hosts roundtables, and publishes proceedings from events.

NABE represents business economists and professionals who use economics in their jobs. The association offers conferences, educational resources, and career development support. NABE also provides industry surveys and confers the Certified Business Economist credential.