Economics Master's Program
Research, Analyze, Interpret, Advise...
A Master of Arts in Economics is an ideal foundation for jobs in data science, analytics, government, and policy. Develop strong analytical skills and gain experience using statistical analysis software—excellent preparation for an industry job or doctorate program.
Program structure
Most students complete the program in 3 semesters. 30 credit hours of graduate coursework are required.
Coursework:
- Required core classes: ECON 700, Survey of Microeconomics; ECON 701, Survey of Macroeconomics; and ECON 715 Elementary Econometrics;
- at least 18 hours of the 30 hours required must be 700+ level; and
- up to 9 credit hours can be taken in related areas, such as business administration, computer science, political science, or mathematics.
Candidates for the M.A. do not have to complete a final exam. However, those on the thesis-track will need to defend their master's thesis prior to graduation.
FAQs
M.A. candidates should have completed, at minimum, Calculus I-II, a statistics course (similar to Math 526), and intermediate courses in microeconomics, macroeconomics, and econometrics. A bachelor's degree in economics is not necessary, but applicants should have knowledge in economics and an adequate background in mathematics.
For KU undergraduates, there is an accelerated option that allows students to double count 12 hours their Senior year. After earning an Economics B.A., B.S., or minor, students then take 18 hours to complete their Master of Arts in Economics.
Currently funding is available only for Ph.D. students. M.A. students are responsible for securing their own funding.
You can estimate tuition, using KU’s tuition calculator.
Be sure to select “Nonresident”, if you are not a Kansas resident. You will then select “Graduate Student” in “Liberal Arts & Sciences.” MA students need 30 semester hours to graduate. Most students complete the program in 3 semesters.
The application can be accessed on the Graduate Admissions page.
- Personal statement and current resume.
- Three (3) letters of recommendation.
- Transcripts from all higher education institutions attended.
- Official transcripts received from your institutions are not required for the application review process. If an offer of admissions is extended, official transcripts received directly from the institutions will be required during your first semester at KU.
- International students: proof of English proficiency.
To begin in the spring semester, submit an application by November 1.
For fall or summer, submit an application by May 1.
Application review begins immediately following the deadline. M.A. candidates are notified within 7 business days. Please aim to have all materials submitted by the deadline (this includes letters of recommendation).
If you need an answer earlier, please notify our graduate academic advisor, email below.
