Middle Tennessee State University (MTSU)

What you'll study

The programme builds from the core principles of microeconomics and macroeconomics into applied courses that focus on environmental issues. You will develop quantitative skills in econometrics and statistics and apply them to topics such as natural resource economics, environmental valuation, cost–benefit analysis and the economics of pollution control.

• Core economics: intermediate microeconomics, intermediate macroeconomics, econometrics and economic statistics.
• Environmental and policy modules: environmental economics, natural resource economics, public economics and environmental policy analysis.
• Quantitative and supporting subjects: calculus and mathematical methods for economists, applied data analysis, geographic information systems (elective in collaboration with geosciences or geography).
• Law and policy electives: public policy, environmental law and regulation, cost–benefit and impact assessment methods.
• Experiential learning: internship or practicum placements with government agencies, NGOs or private-sector sustainability teams, and opportunities for undergraduate research with faculty supervisors.
• Capstone: a senior seminar or capstone project that typically requires students to produce a policy brief, empirical analysis or applied research project on an environmental economic question.

Entry requirements

Admission to the university requires a completed high-school diploma or equivalent and fulfilment of university-wide entrance criteria. For the Economics major with an environmental focus, the department typically expects competency in mathematics (algebra and introductory calculus recommended) and strong grades in quantitative subjects. Applicants with prior coursework in economics, statistics or calculus are advantaged. Transfer students should provide college transcripts; placement in certain quantitative courses may be determined by prior course work or departmental assessment.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for roles that combine economic analysis with environmental and regulatory expertise. Typical career paths include:

• Environmental economist or analyst in government departments or regulatory agencies;
• Policy analyst or advisor for environmental NGOs and think tanks;
• Sustainability consultant or analyst in private-sector firms assessing environmental risk, compliance and valuation;
• Research assistant or analyst for academic, international or intergovernmental organisations working on resource management and climate policy;
• Progression to postgraduate study (e.g. MSc or PhD) in economics, environmental economics, public policy or related fields.

Why study at Middle Tennessee State University (MTSU)

MTSU is a large public university with a strong emphasis on undergraduate teaching and applied learning. The Economics Department offers hands-on training in data analysis and econometrics, and students can draw on interdisciplinary links across campus—particularly with geography, geosciences and political science—to deepen environmental technical and policy knowledge.

Situated in Murfreesboro and close to the Nashville region, MTSU provides access to internship and employment opportunities with state agencies, regional planning organisations and a growing private sector focused on sustainability. Faculty engagement in applied research and a range of experiential learning options make the programme well suited to students seeking practical skills for careers at the intersection of economics and the environment.