University of Southern Mississippi

What you'll study

The master's programme in Economics offers a combination of core theory, quantitative methods and applied coursework. Students typically take advanced microeconomic theory, advanced macroeconomic theory, and graduate econometrics as core modules, which establish the theoretical and empirical foundation of the degree.

• Advanced Microeconomic Theory — consumer and producer theory, general equilibrium, game theory and information economics.
• Advanced Macroeconomic Theory — growth theory, business-cycle models, monetary and fiscal policy analysis.
• Econometrics — time-series, panel data, regression diagnostics and causal inference techniques.
• Applied Economics electives — labour economics, public finance, health economics, environmental/resource economics, urban/regional economics and development economics.
• Quantitative methods and programming — mathematical economics, computational methods and use of software such as R, Stata or Python for empirical work.
• Research component — options typically include a thesis or a comprehensive research project; non-thesis tracks may include additional coursework or a practicum.

The programme is structured to allow full-time and part-time study. Full-time students normally complete the degree over two years, combining coursework and a significant piece of independent research or a capstone project supervised by faculty in the Department of Economics.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution, preferably with substantial coursework in economics, mathematics or statistics. Typical preparation includes undergraduate courses in microeconomics, macroeconomics, calculus and introductory econometrics. Where academic preparation is lacking, the department may require foundation courses before students progress to graduate-level modules.

• Official transcripts showing an undergraduate degree.
• A strong quantitative background—evidence of coursework in calculus, linear algebra, statistics or econometrics is advantageous.
• Letters of recommendation (academic or professional) that speak to the applicant's readiness for graduate study.
• A personal statement outlining academic interests, relevant experience and career goals.
• International applicants must meet the university's English language proficiency requirements.

Admission may also consider relevant professional experience. Some applicants pursue a preparatory or bridging semester if their undergraduate training did not include sufficient quantitative or economic theory coursework.

Career prospects

Graduates of the master's in Economics are prepared for a range of roles in the public and private sectors, as well as for further academic study at the doctoral level. The programme's emphasis on econometric and analytical skills makes alumni attractive to employers who require data-driven decision-making.

• Economic analyst roles in government agencies and central banks.
• Research and policy positions in think tanks and non-profit organisations.
• Data analyst, business analyst and quantitative roles in finance, consulting and industry.
• Positions in health economics, environmental economics and regional planning departments.
• Preparation for PhD study in economics or related disciplines for those pursuing academic careers.

Why study at University of Southern Mississippi

The University of Southern Mississippi offers a personalised, research-active environment where students can work closely with faculty on applied and theoretical topics. The Department of Economics provides access to a broad range of applied research areas relevant to regional and national economic issues, and students benefit from both classroom instruction and opportunities for faculty-mentored research.

Smaller cohort sizes support individualised supervision for thesis and project work, while the university's links with local government and business organisations can facilitate internships and applied research collaborations. The programme's balance of rigorous theory and practical econometric training equips graduates with skills immediately applicable to the labour market or further study.