Clark University

What you'll study

The programme emphasises core economic theory, applied econometrics and practical policy analysis. You will build a foundation in microeconomics and macroeconomics and develop quantitative skills through courses in econometrics and data analysis. Typical modules include:

• Microeconomic Theory — consumer and producer theory, market structure, welfare analysis and applications.
• Macroeconomic Theory — models of growth, business cycles, monetary and fiscal policy frameworks.
• Econometrics and Applied Econometrics — regression methods, time-series and panel data techniques, causal inference and programme evaluation.
• Research Methods and Data Analysis — statistical computing, database management and use of software such as R, Stata or Python for empirical work.
• Electives — options typically cover development economics, labour economics, public economics, industrial organisation, international economics, behavioural economics and health economics.
• Capstone/Thesis or Applied Project — students complete an original research paper or a practicum project that applies economic tools to a real-world problem, often in collaboration with faculty or external partners.

The programme structure balances required core courses with elective choices so students can tailor their programme toward research, policy analysis or business applications. Seminars, workshops and opportunities for independent study supplement taught modules.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution. Successful candidates typically have a solid quantitative background, which may include coursework in calculus, statistics and introductory economics. Common application components are:

• Official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended.
• A personal statement outlining academic and professional goals and reasons for pursuing graduate study in economics.
• Letters of recommendation, usually two or three, from academic or professional referees who can speak to the applicant’s potential for graduate-level work.
• A current résumé or curriculum vitae detailing relevant work, research, or quantitative experience.
• Proof of English language proficiency for applicants whose first language is not English.

Standardised test requirements vary and applicants should consult the programme for current guidance; relevant quantitative experience and demonstrated research potential are weighted heavily in admissions decisions.

Career prospects

Graduates leave prepared for roles that require strong analytical and empirical skills. Typical career destinations include:

• Economic analyst or research associate in government agencies, central banks and public policy organisations.
• Data analyst, quantitative analyst or business analyst in consulting firms, financial services and technology companies.
• Policy analyst or programme evaluator for non‑governmental organisations, international organisations and think tanks.
• Market and industry analyst roles in private sector firms, or positions in regulatory and compliance departments.
• Further academic study such as PhD programmes in economics or related social sciences for those pursuing research careers.

Internships, practicum projects and faculty-led research often help students build a professional portfolio and network that supports transition into these roles.

Why study at Clark University

Clark University offers a small, collegial graduate environment with close faculty mentoring and opportunities for hands-on research. The economics faculty combine applied policy expertise with quantitative research, enabling students to work on empirical projects and policy‑relevant analyses. Clark’s location in Worcester provides access to regional public, non-profit and private sector organisations for internships and applied projects, while cross-disciplinary connections across departments encourage work at the intersection of economics, development, data science and public policy. The programme’s emphasis on applied econometrics and real-world problem solving prepares graduates for both professional roles and continued academic study.