University of Arizona

What you'll study

This programme builds a foundation in microeconomics, macroeconomics and econometrics, then applies those tools to environmental and resource problems. Core modules typically include intermediate microeconomics, intermediate macroeconomics, economic statistics and econometrics. Environmental specialism modules cover topics such as natural resource economics, environmental valuation, benefit–cost analysis, climate economics, and the economics of pollution control.

Students take quantitative coursework to support policy analysis, including multivariate statistics, applied econometrics, and optimisation or calculus. Interdisciplinary electives are commonly drawn from ecology, environmental science, geography, public policy and law — for example courses in environmental policy design, conservation science, land-use planning, and geographic information systems (GIS).

Programme structure normally combines required core economics courses, a set of concentration electives in environmental economics and policy, and general university breadth requirements. Many students complete a capstone or senior research project that applies empirical methods to a real-world environmental question. Opportunities for fieldwork, summer research with faculty, and internships with government agencies, NGOs or industry partners are encouraged and widely available.

Entry requirements

Applicants need a secondary-school qualification that is equivalent to a U.S. high school diploma. Competitive applicants usually have strong preparation in mathematics (algebra and precalculus, and ideally calculus) and coursework in science or social science. Admissions decisions are based on the overall academic record; standardised test scores (when submitted), personal statements, and extracurricular achievements can also be considered.

Transfer students must supply college transcripts and information on previous university-level coursework; prior study in economics or quantitative subjects strengthens an application. International applicants must meet the University of Arizona's English-language proficiency requirements through recognised tests or approved alternatives.

Prospective students planning to specialise in environmental economics are advised to highlight any relevant experience — such as environmental volunteer work, internships, research projects or GIS and data-analysis skills — in their application materials.

Career prospects

Graduates with this combination of economics and environmental training move into a range of roles where analytical, quantitative and policy-evaluation skills are required. Common career paths include:

• Environmental economist or policy analyst in government agencies (state, regional or national) and international organisations
• Analyst or consultant in environmental consulting firms, sustainability divisions of corporations, and natural-resource companies
• Research assistant or analyst for think tanks, NGOs and environmental advocacy groups
• Positions in water resources management, fisheries economics, forestry economics and land-use planning
• Continuation to graduate study (master’s in economics, environmental economics, public policy, natural resources, or a PhD) for careers in research and higher education

The programme’s emphasis on econometrics, data analysis and policy evaluation also prepares graduates for roles in data analytics, programme evaluation and impact assessment across sectors.

Why study at University of Arizona

The University of Arizona offers strong interdisciplinary resources for students interested in environmental economics and policy. Students can draw on faculty expertise across economics, environmental science, geography and public policy, and on campus research centres focused on water, climate and sustainability.

Located in Arizona, the university provides distinctive regional examples of arid-land resource management, water policy and land-use challenges which are integrated into teaching and research. There are regular opportunities for applied learning through internships with local and state agencies, collaboration with research institutes, and field-based projects.

Support services for undergraduates include advising for economics majors, research placement programmes, and career services that connect students with employers in government, consulting, NGOs and industry. The programme prepares students both for immediate employment and for advanced study in environmental economics and related disciplines.