Roger Williams University

What you'll study

This programme blends a solid foundation in microeconomics, macroeconomics and econometrics with specialised courses in environmental economics, natural resource economics and environmental policy analysis. You will study how markets interact with natural resources, the economics of pollution control, valuation of ecosystem services, and the design of policy instruments such as taxes, permits and regulations.

• Core economics: principles of microeconomics and macroeconomics, intermediate micro, intermediate macro, and econometrics/statistics for economists.
• Environmental specialisation: environmental economics, natural resource economics, climate economics, cost–benefit analysis and valuation techniques.
• Policy and law: environmental policy, environmental law and regulation, public finance and policy instrument design.
• Methods and applied skills: quantitative methods, applied econometrics, geographic information systems (GIS) basics, and data analysis using statistical software.
• Interdisciplinary electives: courses in ecology, coastal and marine science, energy systems, urban planning and sustainability to place economic analysis in an environmental context.
• Capstone and experiential learning: a senior capstone or research project that typically involves empirical analysis or a policy assessment; opportunities for internships, field-based projects and faculty-mentored research.

Entry requirements

Applicants should have a high-school diploma or equivalent with strong achievement in mathematics. Preparatory coursework in algebra, pre-calculus or calculus, and introductory economics or statistics is advantageous. Application materials typically include academic transcripts, a personal statement outlining interest in economics and environmental issues, and at least one academic or professional recommendation.

Roger Williams University considers a holistic applicant profile; standardised test submission may be optional depending on institutional policy. International applicants must demonstrate English proficiency through an accepted test or equivalent documentation. Transfer students should submit college transcripts and syllabi for prior coursework to determine applicable credit.

Career prospects

Graduates are equipped for roles that require quantitative analysis, policy evaluation and an understanding of environmental constraints. Common career paths include:

• Environmental economist or analyst in government agencies, think tanks and international organisations
• Policy analyst or advisor focusing on climate, energy, natural resources or environmental regulation
• Sustainability and corporate social responsibility analyst in the private sector
• Consultant in environmental consulting firms and engineering consultancies
• Research assistant or analyst in academic, non-profit or research institutions
• Further study in graduate programmes such as an MSc in environmental economics, public policy, resource management or law

Why study at Roger Williams University

Roger Williams offers a liberal-arts environment with small classes and close faculty mentoring, allowing students to pursue interdisciplinary study across economics, environmental science and policy. The university’s coastal location provides direct access to marine and coastal research opportunities and local organisations involved in environmental management.

Students benefit from experiential learning through internships with regional government agencies, non-profits and private firms, hands-on field projects, and options to engage in undergraduate research. The programme emphasises applied skills—data analysis, policy evaluation and communication—preparing graduates to move directly into professional roles or to continue to graduate study.