Graduate Programs
The Department of Economics offers work leading to a M.A. or M.S. degree in Applied Economics. It is a two-year program after which many of our graduate students either stay for an extra year to get a second M.S. degree from the Department of Mathematics or they continue into a Ph.D. program in Economics. Several of our graduating students enter directly the labor market and work as professional economists, managers and management consultants, and research and data analysts. The route you follow will depend on your future goals.
Our graduate program allows our students to select a concentration in an applied economics field (e.g., labor economics, development economics, international economics) with emphasis on data analysis through the use of different statistical software. We also offer four more specialized sequences: Financial Economics (FE), Quantitative Economics (QE), Electricity, Natural Gas, and Telecommunication Economics (ENGT), and Applied Community and Economic Development Economics (ACED). The Financial Economics sequence is designed for individuals who are interested in combining Economics and Finance by complementing their training in applied economics analysis with training in the financial theory of the firm, and in financial markets and institutions. The Quantitative Economics sequence is designed for students who have an inherent interest in augmenting their mathematical economics knowledge and skills with the intention of obtaining a M.S. in Mathematics, of pursuing doctoral-level studies in Economics, or both. The Electricity, Natural Gas, and Telecommunication Economics sequence combines training in economic theory and statistical methods with specialized training in industry-related issues including natural resources, renewable energy and regulation. In conjunction with this sequence the Department hosts the Institute for Regulatory Policy Studies (IRPS), a premier institution for research and education in regulatory economics and public policy in the State of Illinois. The Applied Community and Economic Development sequence is a multidisciplinary program for students with an inherent interest in community service and civic engagement, which combines graduate-level training in economics with significant community service internship experiences (e.g., Peace Corps). In support of this sequence we co-sponsor the Stevenson Center for Community and Economic Development (ACED).
Explore our website to learn more about the application process, the graduate curriculum, research and funding opportunities, and career opportunities for graduates of our unique graduate program. Also connect with alumni of our graduate program as well as current students through the ILSTU Economics Students and Alumni on Facebook to connect with alumni of our graduate program as well as current students.