Simmons University

What you'll study

The programme builds a foundation in microeconomics, macroeconomics and econometrics before focusing on the economic dimensions of environmental problems. Core modules typically include principles of economics, intermediate microeconomics, intermediate macroeconomics and applied econometrics or statistics for economists. Concentration courses focus on environmental and resource economics, cost–benefit analysis, climate change economics, natural resource management, and environmental policy design.

• Quantitative skills: statistics for social sciences, econometrics, data analysis and sometimes GIS or spatial methods for environmental data.
• Environmental economics topics: externalities and market failure, valuation of environmental goods, resource depletion, renewable resource economics, pollution control instruments, and carbon pricing.
• Policy and interdisciplinary electives: environmental law and regulation, sustainable development, urban environmental policy, energy economics, and courses in political science, public policy or environmental studies.
• Capstone and experiential learning: senior seminar or capstone project applying economic methods to a real-world environmental policy question; opportunities for internships with local NGOs, government agencies or consulting firms in the Boston area.

Entry requirements

Admissions are based on a competitive secondary school record and a demonstrated readiness for college-level quantitative coursework. Typical expectations include a strong high school diploma or equivalent with solid grades in mathematics (such as algebra, pre-calculus or calculus) and social sciences. Applicants should submit a personal statement and academic references; standardised test submission policies may be optional or considered where provided. International applicants must demonstrate English proficiency through recognised tests or equivalent qualifications.

Career prospects

Graduates are equipped to work where economic analysis intersects with environmental decision-making. Common entry-level roles include policy analyst, environmental economist (often as research assistants), sustainability analyst or consultant, programme coordinator at non-profit organisations, and analyst roles in government environmental agencies. Alumnus also move into private-sector sustainability and energy firms, environmental finance, or continue to graduate study in economics, public policy, environmental science or law.

Why study at Simmons University

Simmons offers a small-college environment with personalised faculty mentoring and a liberal-arts approach that encourages interdisciplinary study. Located in the Greater Boston area, students benefit from proximity to research centres, think tanks, government agencies and a strong network of internship providers. The department emphasises hands-on learning through data-driven projects, applied capstones and community-engaged experiences, preparing graduates to apply economic tools to contemporary environmental challenges.