University of Southern Indiana

What you'll study

The programme builds a strong foundation in microeconomics, macroeconomics and econometrics before applying those tools to environmental and natural resource issues. Students take core modules in economic theory and quantitative methods and then progress to specialist subjects that examine market failures, valuation of environmental goods, cost–benefit analysis, and policy instruments for pollution control and conservation.

• Core economics: principles of micro and macroeconomics, intermediate microeconomics, intermediate macroeconomics.
• Quantitative methods: statistics for economists, econometrics, applied data analysis and economic modelling.
• Environmental economics: environmental and natural resource economics, valuation methods (stated and revealed preference), non‑market valuation and ecosystem services.
• Policy and regulation: environmental policy analysis, public economics, cost–benefit and cost‑effectiveness analysis, regulation and market‑based instruments (taxes, tradable permits).
• Interdisciplinary electives: land use and resource management, energy economics, climate change economics, environmental law and institutions, geographic information systems (GIS) for environmental analysis.
• Capstone and practical experience: a senior seminar or capstone project that applies economic methods to an environmental policy question, plus opportunities for internships with regional government agencies, NGOs, or industry partners.

Many students also take complementary courses from allied disciplines such as political science, environmental studies, geography and statistics to broaden policy and technical knowledge.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a recognised secondary school qualification and meet the University of Southern Indiana's general admission standards. Typical preparation includes college‑preparatory coursework with a strong background in mathematics (algebra and preferably precalculus or calculus) and writing.

• Successful completion of high school with recommended coursework in mathematics and science.
• Demonstrable quantitative ability — prior study in algebra, trigonometry or calculus is advantageous.
• Transcripts and a personal statement outlining interest in economics and environmental issues; references and portfolios of relevant work or extracurricular engagement strengthen an application.
• Transfer applicants should provide college transcripts and evidence of completed introductory economics or mathematics units where applicable.

Standardised test requirements and other specifics may vary; applicants should consult the university admissions office for current entry policies.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for careers that require economic reasoning and quantitative analysis applied to environmental problems. Common career paths include roles in government environmental and natural resource agencies, regulatory bodies, policy think tanks, non‑governmental organisations, and private‑sector firms focused on sustainability, consulting or energy.

• Environment and natural resource economist or analyst
• Policy analyst or adviser in local, state or federal agencies
• Sustainability consultant for industry or consulting firms
• Energy markets analyst or environmental compliance specialist
• Research assistant or analyst in academic or policy research centres
• Pathways to postgraduate study in economics, environmental science, public policy or law

The combination of applied econometrics, valuation techniques and policy analysis makes graduates attractive to employers who need evidence‑based evaluation of environmental programmes and regulation.

Why study at University of Southern Indiana

University of Southern Indiana offers a student‑centred undergraduate experience with small class sizes, accessible faculty and a practical emphasis on applied learning. The campus's regional setting provides opportunities for applied projects and internships with local governments, river and watershed management organisations, and industry stakeholders.

• Close faculty mentorship and opportunities to pursue an independent research project or honours capstone in environmental economics.
• Practical, hands‑on learning through internships and community partnerships in the Evansville region and beyond.
• Interdisciplinary options allow students to combine economics with environmental science, policy or GIS to tailor their skill set to specific career goals.

Overall, the programme is suited to students who want rigorous economic training together with applied skills for shaping and evaluating environmental policy and sustainable resource use.