University of North Florida

What you'll study

The programme builds a foundation in microeconomics, macroeconomics and quantitative methods before moving into applied topics that link economics to environmental and natural resource issues. You will study core subjects such as intermediate microeconomics, intermediate macroeconomics and econometrics, alongside specialised modules in environmental economics and policy.

• Core economics and quantitative methods: principles of economics, intermediate micro and macro, statistics for economists, applied econometrics and mathematics for economists.
• Environmental and resource topics: environmental economics, natural resource economics, valuation of environmental goods, cost–benefit analysis for environmental projects, and the economics of climate change.
• Policy, regulation and management: environmental policy and regulation, public economics, environmental law and institutions, and evaluation of policy instruments such as taxes, permits and subsidies.
• Skills and applied tools: data analysis and modelling, geographic information systems (GIS) basics for environmental applications, policy analysis, and research methods.
• Capstone and experiential learning: senior seminar or capstone project that applies economic analysis to a real-world environmental problem, plus opportunities for internships with local agencies, NGOs or private sector employers.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a recognised secondary school qualification with a strong academic record. Typical preparation includes mathematics through algebra and preferably precalculus or calculus, and coursework in statistics if available. Admissions assess overall academic performance, strength of curriculum and any standardised test scores if submitted.

• Domestic applicants: high school diploma or equivalent with competitive grades; demonstrated quantitative ability is important.
• International applicants: an equivalent secondary qualification and evidence of English language proficiency (e.g. TOEFL, IELTS) unless exempt.
• Additional considerations: a personal statement highlighting interest in environmental issues, relevant extracurriculars, volunteer work or coursework can strengthen an application. Transfer students should provide college transcripts and any prior coursework in economics or mathematics.

Career prospects

Graduates combine economic analysis with environmental understanding, making them attractive to a range of employers. Career paths include roles in government environmental and natural resource agencies, policy analysis, environmental and economic consulting, non-governmental organisations, utilities, and private sector sustainability teams. Many graduates also pursue postgraduate study in economics, public policy, environmental management or related fields.

• Environmental economist or analyst in local, state or federal agencies
• Policy analyst focusing on climate, energy or natural resources
• Consultant in environmental valuation, cost–benefit analysis or sustainability strategy
• Research assistant or analyst with think tanks, NGOs or academic groups
• Further study: master's programmes in environmental economics, public policy, resource management or economics

Why study at University of North Florida

University of North Florida offers a personalised undergraduate experience, with relatively small class sizes and accessible faculty who are active in applied research and community engagement. The programme benefits from the university’s location in Jacksonville, providing proximity to coastal and riverine environments as well as a diverse regional economy for internships and fieldwork.

• Applied and experiential focus: emphasis on hands-on projects, undergraduate research and internships with local government, utilities, firms and conservation organisations.
• Interdisciplinary opportunities: easy access to related departments and courses in environmental science, public administration, geography and business for a broader skill set.
• Support for students: advising, career services and faculty mentorship to help tailor pathways toward professional roles or graduate study.