Ohio Wesleyan University

What you'll study

The programme pairs foundational courses in microeconomics, macroeconomics and econometrics with specialised coursework that examines the economics of environmental resources, climate policy and sustainable development. Students study how markets interact with environmental systems, how policy interventions can address externalities and public goods, and how to evaluate the costs and benefits of environmental regulation.

• Core economics: Principles of microeconomics and macroeconomics, intermediate micro, intermediate macro, and applied econometrics or statistics for economists.
• Environmental economics: Natural resource economics, environmental and resource policy, valuation methods for environmental goods, climate economics and cost–benefit analysis.
• Policy and interdisciplinary electives: Environmental law and policy, public finance, sustainable development, urban and regional economics, and courses from environmental studies, geography, biology or political science to provide scientific and institutional context.
• Research and practical experience: A senior capstone or independent research project that applies economic analysis to an environmental question, internships with government agencies, NGOs, or private sector firms, and opportunities for field-based learning or community-engaged projects.
• Skills developed: Quantitative analysis using statistical software, economic modelling, policy evaluation, written and oral communication, and interdisciplinary problem solving.

Entry requirements

Applicants should have a strong high-school record with coursework in mathematics (including algebra and preferably calculus), English and social studies. Admissions are based on a holistic review of academic performance, recommendation letters, personal statement and extracurricular engagement. Standardised test scores (SAT/ACT) may be considered if submitted but are typically optional; contact the admissions office for current testing policies.

For transfer applicants, successful completion of introductory economics and college-level mathematics or statistics strengthens an application. Prospective students without prior economics coursework should not be discouraged; introductory courses are offered to prepare students for intermediate study.

Career prospects

Graduates with this specialisation are prepared for roles that require economic analysis of environmental and natural-resource issues. Typical early-career positions include:

• Policy analyst or research assistant in government agencies and public bodies focused on environmental regulation, natural resources or energy policy.
• Environmental economist or analyst in consulting firms advising on regulatory compliance, environmental impact assessments and cost–benefit analysis.
• Program officer, analyst or project coordinator in non-governmental organisations and think tanks working on conservation, sustainability and climate issues.
• Data analyst or research associate in private-sector firms with sustainability programmes, utilities, or renewable-energy companies.
• Further study: many graduates pursue graduate degrees in economics, environmental economics, public policy, environmental science or law to expand research and policy opportunities.

Why study at Ohio Wesleyan University

Ohio Wesleyan is a small, residential liberal-arts university that emphasises close faculty mentorship and experiential learning—advantages for undergraduates pursuing applied fields like environmental economics. The college environment supports independent research and a senior capstone experience under faculty supervision.

Students benefit from interdisciplinary collaboration across the Economics and Environmental Studies programmes and from access to internships and placement opportunities in the nearby Columbus metropolitan area and state agencies. Small class sizes encourage discussion-based learning and allow students to develop strong quantitative and communication skills valued by employers and graduate programmes.

Finally, Ohio Wesleyan promotes hands-on learning through community-engaged projects and off-campus study options, enabling students to apply economic tools to real environmental problems while building a professional network before graduation.