Applied Economics (Graduate)

Further your understanding of economic theory and data analysis while conducting high-level research, either in preparation for advanced consulting and research or academia.

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Applied Economics – Master of Science (M.S.)

The graduate Applied Economics program at Montana State develops students’ understanding of economic theory and quantitative and econometric data analysis applied to a broad range of economic problems. These capabilities are developed through a breadth of coursework and collaborative research with department faculty. The Applied Economics program offers the opportunity to undertake advanced coursework in economics and conduct high-level research without committing to a lengthy Ph.D. program.

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Graduates of the Applied Economics graduate program include Molly DelCurto ’20, whose research project on a new element of federal crop insurance called the Pasture, Rangeland and Forage Insurance Program earned her one of the top awards at the Graduate Student Extension Competition.

 

 

 

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Carnegie Classified
The prestigious Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education® ranks Montana State University among the Top 5 public, 4-year universities for Very High Research Activity with a STEM-dominant research doctoral program.

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Economic Vitality
Bozeman's long-term growth has earned the city recognition as the country's #1 Strongest Micropolitan Economy by Florida-based think tank Policom's annual study.

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Top of the Pack
The Applied Economics graduate program at Montana State is consistently ranked in the top five in the nation among master’s programs in agricultural and natural resource economics.

 

 

 

Fund Your Education

The College of Agriculture and MSU offer a wide variety of ways to help fund your graduate education: Agricultural scholarship opportunities can be found here. Many MSU departments offer graduate teaching assistantships and other graduate appointments. Information on GTAs and other opportunities can be found here.

Learn By Doing

In addition to a wide range of coursework, students in the Department of Agricultural Economics and Economics:

  • Enjoy a low student-to-faculty ratio, making collaborative work and student support a priority.
  • Have the opportunity to attend MSU’s annual Fall Outlook Conference, which assesses the economic climate in Montana and beyond.
  • Engage at research seminars throughout the year with renowned faculty from MSU and research institutions across the nation.

 

$105,000

Careers after Graduation

Masters alumni in Applied Economics embark on a wide range of careers within 10-years of their graduation.

Nearly 58% are working in for-profit, 24% in academia, and about 10% for government. Top industry employers include Montana State University and JG Research and Evaluation.

Across all career paths the estimated salary of alumni within 10 years of graduation ranges from $60,000 to $150,000 with an average of $100,000 (source of data Academic Analytics).

 

Admissions Requirements

Note: no GRE Required.

In order to be accepted into this program, you must have completed the following required classes:

    • Intermediate Microeconomic and Macroeconomic Theory. Both courses should be calculus based.

    • At least one year of Calculus and a semester of Matrix Algebra or Linear Algebra.  Multivariable calculus is also recommended.
    • One semester of Econometrics or the equivalent

Application Materials

    • Unofficial undergraduate transcripts  (Official transcripts will be requested for formal admission) 

    • Three letters of recommendation

    • The application fee

    • Non-native English speakers must also include evidence of English language proficiency    

    • A personal statement is strongly recommended but is not required.

      • You are not required to be accepted to the research team of an individual faculty member.  However, your personal statement should describe your research interests and how they relate to the research programs of specific faculty members.

If you have any questions about your application, please contact the Department Student Sucess Coordinator at[email protected]