University of Chicago

What you'll study

The programme builds on the University of Chicago’s core economics curriculum—microeconomics, macroeconomics, econometrics and mathematical methods—and channels that training into environmental topics. You will complete core quantitative courses that train you in economic theory, statistics and data analysis, then choose electives and seminars that apply those tools to environmental and resource challenges.

• Core quantitative training: intermediate and advanced microeconomics, macroeconomics, econometrics, probability and mathematical methods for economists.
• Foundational environmental economics: valuation of environmental goods, externalities and market failure, optimal resource extraction, common‑property resources.
• Applied policy and markets: climate economics, energy economics and energy markets, carbon pricing and emissions trading, cost–benefit analysis for environmental policy.
• Data and empirical methods: applied econometrics for environmental data, causal inference, programme evaluation, time‑series methods for climate and energy data.
• Interdisciplinary electives: courses in public policy, urban studies, ecology and environmental science that complement economic analysis and policy design.
• Capstone and research opportunities: independent research projects or honours thesis supervised by faculty in the Department of Economics and affiliated institutes; opportunities to work with research centres on policy‑focused projects.

Entry requirements

Admission to the College at the University of Chicago is selective and considers academic record, demonstrated quantitative ability, recommendations and the applicant’s written work. For this programme you should show strong preparation in mathematics and analytical subjects.

• Recommended academic background: high achievement in advanced mathematics (for example A‑level Mathematics or Further Mathematics, IB Higher Level Mathematics, AP Calculus), and coursework in economics, statistics or a physical science where available.
• Skills and qualities: comfort with mathematical reasoning, interest in policy questions around environment and energy, ability to work with data and formal models.
• Application materials: competitive applicants typically submit academic transcripts, teacher recommendations, and written materials that demonstrate quantitative aptitude and intellectual curiosity; standardised test policies may vary so consult the College for current guidance.

Career prospects

Graduates combine rigorous economic analysis with domain knowledge in environmental problems, making them attractive to a range of employers and further‑study programmes. Typical career paths include:

• Public sector and policy: analyst or advisor roles in government departments and regulatory bodies working on climate, energy, environment and natural‑resource policy.
• International organisations and NGOs: research, programme design and evaluation roles with international institutions, environmental NGOs and think tanks.
• Private sector: consulting firms (environmental, economic or management consulting), energy companies, utilities and finance firms focusing on carbon markets, sustainability and risk assessment.
• Research and academia: positions in research institutes or progression to graduate study (Master’s or PhD) in economics, public policy, environmental science or related fields.

Why study at University of Chicago

The University of Chicago is known for its rigorous, conceptually driven training in economics. Students benefit from faculty who are leaders in economic theory and applied empirical work, and from close connections to interdisciplinary research centres that focus on energy and environmental policy.

• Strong economics department: a curriculum known for deep theoretical and quantitative grounding, preparing students to address complex policy and market problems.
• Interdisciplinary research centres: access to university institutes that work on energy and environment policy, providing opportunities for collaboration on applied research projects and policy engagement.
• Research and internship opportunities: campus and city connections enable internships with policy organisations, consultancies and research groups, and faculty often supervise undergraduate research and theses.
• Preparation for impact: training emphasises rigorous causal inference and policy evaluation, equipping graduates to design, assess and implement evidence‑based environmental and energy policies.