Program Overview

Master of Science in Applied Economics

The Master of Science in Applied Economics program at Boston College's Woods College of Advancing Studies is designed to prepare students for careers in a variety of industries, including educational services, financial services, and professional, scientific, and technical services. The program focuses on practice-oriented data analysis and ethical sensibilities, ensuring that students have relevant skills for today's job market.

Program Overview

The program requires 10 courses (30 credits) and can be completed in as little as 16 months. Students can pursue the degree full-time or part-time, online or on campus, or in a combination of formats. The program is designed to accommodate working professionals and those pursuing internships.

Curriculum

The curriculum includes five core requirements and five electives, covering topics such as:

• Applied macroeconomic theory
• Applied microeconomic theory
• Data analysis
• Econometrics
• Ethics, economics, and public policy

Electives may include courses in:

• Big data econometrics
• Predictive analytics and forecasting
• Market research and analysis
• Environmental and natural resource economics
• AI/ML software tools and platforms

Faculty

The faculty members are accomplished practitioners with doctoral degrees in economics or statistics. They have expertise in various areas, including work with the International Monetary Fund, large consulting firms, and academic departments.

Admission Requirements

To be eligible for admission, applicants must have:

• A bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited college or university (minimum GPA 3.0)
• Completed prerequisite courses in principles of microeconomics, principles of macroeconomics, statistics, and calculus I and II
• Submitted a personal statement, two letters of recommendation, and a résumé
• Paid a non-refundable application fee of $60

Tuition and Financial Aid

Tuition information can be found on the Boston College website. The program offers access to US federal aid, and international students are not eligible for financial aid.

Career Opportunities

Graduates of the program will be prepared for careers in a variety of industries, including:

• Educational services
• Financial services
• Professional, scientific, and technical services
• Insurance carriers and related activities
• Hospitals and healthcare

Skills in Demand

The average starting salary for an economist is $104,924, according to Glassdoor.com. The program's focus on practice-oriented data analysis and ethical sensibilities ensures that students have relevant skills for today's job market.

Learning Outcomes

After completing the program, students will be able to:

• Apply basic economic models to real-world situations
• Interpret and analyze macroeconomic data
• Use statistical and econometric software packages
• Evaluate economic policy proposals with an eye toward ethical ramifications

Application Timeline

Applications are accepted on a rolling basis, with deadlines as follows:

• Fall semester: early deadline May 1, regular deadline August 15
• Spring semester: early deadline October 15, regular deadline January 5
• Summer semester: early deadline March 1, regular deadline April 1

International Students

International students are welcome to apply, and those seeking a visa must apply at least three months prior to their intended start term. TOEFL or IELTS scores are required, and international students must complete the program in 1.5 years (three academic semesters).