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 with 30 credit hours of graduate coursework 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 MA do not have to complete a final exam and most students do not choose to do a thesis. Students that do choose to do a thesis will need to successfully defend the thesis prior to graduation.
FAQs
What are the prerequisites for admission?
MA 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. Please note that a GRE score is not required.
Does the department provide financial assistance?
Currently funding is available only for PhD students. MA students are responsible for securing their own funding. If funding is an issue, we recommend looking for funded Master's programs or applying to our PhD program. Please note: An MA is not needed to apply to the PhD program.
How much is tuition?
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.
What materials are needed to apply?
The application can be accessed on the Graduate Admissions page.
Personal statement and current resume.
- Please use the following GPA calculator to determine your GPA if your degree-granting institution uses a grade/point system different from the one used in the U.S. To assist the Admissions Committee, you can list your converted GPA on your CV and the online application. Graduate Admissions confirms GPA estimates using this same GPA calculator.
Three (3) letters of recommendation.
- Contact information for your letter writers will be submitted in your application. Letter writers will then receive a request to submit a letter on your behalf electronically.
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 - You can read our English proficiency requirements for admission at this link.
Deadlines: When are applications due?
To begin in the spring semester, submit an application by November 1.
For fall or summer, submit an application by May 1.
When will I be notified of an admission decision?
Application review begins immediately following the deadline. MA candidates are notified within 7 business days. Please aim to have all materials submitted by the deadline (this includes letters of recommendation).
Do you have an accelerated MA program?
For KU undergraduates, there is an accelerated option that allows students to double count 12 hours their Senior year. After earning an Economics BA, BS, or minor, students then take 18 hours to complete their Master of Arts in Economics.
