Michigan State University

What you'll study

The programme combines core economic theory and applied quantitative methods with specialised courses in environmental and resource economics. Core topics include microeconomic theory, welfare and public economics, and advanced econometrics. Specialist modules cover environmental valuation and benefit–cost analysis, natural resource and renewable resource economics, climate policy and carbon markets, land and water economics, and regulatory and incentive‑based approaches to pollution control.

Students typically choose a mix of coursework and a culminating product that may be a supervised research thesis, an applied policy project or an internship report. Practical training emphasises empirical techniques: panel data and time‑series methods, programme evaluation, spatial analysis/GIS for environmental applications, and experimental and behavioural methods where relevant. Interdisciplinary electives draw on related units such as environmental science, energy systems, agricultural and resource economics, and public policy.

• Microeconomic analysis of environmental externalities
• Advanced econometrics for policy evaluation
• Environmental valuation techniques (stated and revealed preference)
• Natural resource management and renewable resource models
• Climate change economics and policy instruments
• Land use, water resource and ecosystem service economics
• Policy design, regulation and environmental law foundations

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a good bachelor’s degree in economics, agricultural and resource economics, environmental studies with substantial quantitative content, mathematics, statistics or a closely related discipline. Solid preparation in calculus, intermediate microeconomics, introductory econometrics or statistics is required.

Typical application materials include official transcripts, a CV, a personal statement outlining research and career objectives, and two academic or professional references. Some applicants may be asked to submit GRE scores or to demonstrate quantitative preparation; requirements vary by department and applicants should check the department’s admissions page. International applicants must demonstrate proficiency in English.

Career prospects

Graduates pursue careers in government agencies (environment and natural resource departments, regulators), international organisations and development banks, environmental and energy consultancies, NGOs and policy research organisations. Other common destinations include private‑sector roles in energy and utilities, corporate sustainability and environmental risk assessment, carbon markets and emissions trading, and environmental impact assessment firms. The programme also prepares students for PhD study in economics or closely related fields, especially for those aiming for careers in academic research or high‑level policy analysis.

Why study at Michigan State University

Michigan State University offers an interdisciplinary environment with faculty expertise across economics, agricultural and resource economics, environmental science and public policy. Students benefit from opportunities for applied research with campus centres and extension programmes, access to regional natural resources including the Great Lakes for empirical study, and collaborative projects with state and federal agencies. The university’s focus on outreach and applied policy work means students can pursue internships and applied projects that connect classroom training to real‑world environmental challenges. Small seminar classes and supervisory support help students develop rigorous quantitative skills and policy‑relevant communication for careers in research, government and industry.