Chatham University

What you'll study

The programme grounds students in the standard economics core—microeconomics, macroeconomics and applied econometrics—while specialising in environmental and resource economics, environmental policy design, and sustainability practice. Course work emphasises quantitative methods, cost–benefit analysis, valuation of ecosystem services, and regulatory and market‑based policy instruments.

• Core economics: Principles of micro and macroeconomics, intermediate microeconomics, intermediate macroeconomics, public economics.
• Quantitative skills: Statistics for economists, applied econometrics, data analysis and forecasting, introductory programming for data (often using R or similar).
• Environmental specialisms: Environmental and natural resource economics, ecological economics, valuation methods, climate change economics, energy economics.
• Policy and law: Environmental policy and regulation, sustainable development policy, environmental law and governance, policy evaluation and impact assessment.
• Interdisciplinary and practical learning: Courses or modules in sustainability science, GIS for environmental analysis, urban and regional planning, and practicum or internship opportunities—including projects at Chatham’s Eden Hall Campus focused on real‑world sustainability challenges.
• Capstone: A senior seminar or capstone project requiring independent research or an applied policy analysis, often supervised by faculty and linked to community or government partners.

Entry requirements

Applicants are typically expected to hold a secondary school diploma or equivalent. Admissions decisions consider academic transcripts, strength of curriculum, recommendation letters, and a personal statement outlining interest in economics and environmental issues. Standardised tests (SAT/ACT) may be optional depending on the admissions cycle; check Chatham’s admissions guidance for current testing policy.

• Academic background: Strong performance in mathematics and social sciences is advantageous. Completion of algebra and statistics at the secondary level is recommended.
• English language: International applicants must demonstrate English proficiency (e.g. TOEFL or IELTS) unless exempt under Chatham’s policies.
• Additional materials: Some applicants may strengthen their application with relevant extracurricular experience (environmental clubs, internships, volunteer work) or coursework in economics, environmental science, or statistics.

Career prospects

Graduates leave prepared for roles that require economic analysis of environmental problems and the design or assessment of policy interventions. The degree supports employment across public, private and non‑profit sectors, as well as further graduate study.

• Environmental economist or policy analyst in government agencies, think‑tanks and international organisations.
• Sustainability analyst or corporate social responsibility specialist in firms and consultancies.
• Research assistant or data analyst roles that use econometric and GIS skills for environmental applications.
• Positions with environmental NGOs, conservation organisations, or community development groups focused on resource management.
• Preparation for postgraduate study (e.g. MA/MS in environmental economics, public policy, or an MBA with sustainability focus).

Why study at Chatham University

Chatham combines a liberal arts approach with applied sustainability expertise; the university’s Eden Hall Campus is a distinctive resource for hands‑on learning in sustainable systems, offering labs, demonstration projects and partnerships with local organisations. Class sizes at Chatham tend to be small, enabling close mentorship from faculty whose research and teaching span economics, environmental science and policy.

• Experiential learning: Opportunities for internships, practicum projects, and fieldwork tied to regional environmental initiatives and Chatham’s sustainability campus.
• Interdisciplinary environment: Easy access to courses and projects across sustainability, biology, public policy and planning, reflecting the cross‑cutting nature of environmental economics.
• Career support: Advising and connections with local employers in the Pittsburgh region and beyond, plus guidance for students pursuing graduate study or public‑sector careers.