The MS in Economics and Policy Analysis (MS-EPA) gives students a distinguished and marketable set of skills in economic theory as it applies to business and economic policy analysis. Students learn how to conduct statistical and econometric research grounded in sound economic models using data from multiple sources on different issues. In addition, students will be able to explain their results and policy recommendations not only to economists, but also to politicians, and the general public.
MS-EPA graduates can find employment in the private sector working for corporations in governmental relations departments, in federal and state governmental agencies, in trade associations or lobbying firms, or in the not-for-profit sector.
Undergraduate students will apply to the combined degree program during their sophomore/junior year. Students must complete ECO 105, ECO 106, ECO 305, MAT 135 or equivalent, MAT 137 or equivalent before being admitted to the program. Students who begin the program in the fall quarter, typically take the following graduate level courses during their senior year:
| Course | Title | Quarter Hours |
|---|---|---|
| ECO 505 | ADVANCED MICROECONOMICS | 4 |
| ECO 515 | MICROECONOMICS OF MARKET ORGANIZATION | 4 |
| Graduate Economics elective (subject to prerequisites) | 4 | |
Students who begin the program in winter or spring quarters, will select graduate courses in consultation with the Director of the MS in Economics and Policy Analysis Program.
The three graduate courses will count towards completion of the BA and will also count towards completion of the MS-EPA. Students may count their three graduate courses as major or open electives. One of the graduate level courses may count as an advanced elective for the Economics Honors Track if the minimum grade of B- is met. The undergraduate degree will be awarded at the completion of all undergraduate work while the MS-EPA will be awarded upon completion of the remaining graduate level work.