New economics master’s degree delivers analytical, career-focused skill set
McCord Hall is home to several master's programs within the W. P. Carey School of Business. ASU photo
The W. P. Carey School of Business at Arizona State University has launched a new Master of Science in Economics (MS-Econ) program. The new degree is now accepting applications for the fall 2025 semester.
The MS-Econ degree program is designed to provide graduate students with a quantitative economics toolkit and the perspectives for economic decision-making. Through the program, students will:
- Gain an in-depth understanding of economic theory and how it can be applied to real-world problems.
- Develop advanced data and econometric analysis, critical thinking and tool-based skills that are highly transferable and valued by employers.
- Get ready for careers in data analysis, policy, consulting, government agencies, research organizations and more.
Alejandro Manelli, chair and JPMorgan Chase Professor in Economics, sees the new program as an opportunity for students to enhance their business acumen.
"An understanding of economic data and decision-making, which students will gain through the program, sets students up for success across industries," Manellis said.
The master’s degree in economics from ASU is recognized by the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agency as a STEM-certified degree program. The STEM designation allows eligible graduates with student visas access to an Optional Practical Training, or OPT, extension, up to 36 months, compared with 12 months for non-STEM degrees.
“This program is customizable and career-oriented, providing ample opportunities for students to grow in the areas where they are most interested while gaining valuable job skills,” said Kate Eaton, associate dean of graduate programs and clinical professor of marketing.
The W. P. Carey Department of Economics is ranked No. 25 in the world by ShanghaiRanking’s 2022 Global Ranking of Academic Subjects, and ASU is ranked No. 35 globally for Best Universities for Economics and Business by U.S. News and World Report.
“Our competitive MS-Econ program will provide foundational career skills in innovative classroom settings with distinguished faculty,” said Ohad Kadan, Charles J. Robel Dean and W. P. Carey Distinguished Chair. “The addition of the MS-Econ degree to our expansive list of graduate programs responds to the growing student and employer needs for advanced analytical skills to solve a broad array of challenges in economics, business and other disciplines."
Offered on the ASU Tempe campus, the economics master’s degree consists of core courses — including two quarters with six courses in microeconomics, macroeconomics, and data science and econometrics — followed by two quarters of electives and a final project, during which students can partner with a corporation with a local presence or the L. William Seidman Research Institute. There is also an optional math boot camp before the program starts.
Learn more about the new degree at wpcarey.asu.edu/masters-programs/economics.
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