University of Pennsylvania

Overview

The M.S. in Business Economics and Public Policy at the University of Pennsylvania is designed to equip students with the analytical skills necessary to assess the interactions between firms, consumers, and governments. This program emphasizes the importance of incentives, regulation, and market design, preparing graduates for impactful roles in policy analysis, consulting, and industries governed by regulatory frameworks.

What you'll study

The program typically spans 24 months and focuses on core coursework that lays the groundwork for understanding economic analysis in markets and policy. Students engage in practical modules concerning regulation, risk management, and sector-specific policies.

• Financing and Managing Government

• Firms, Markets, and Public Policy

• Risk Analysis and Environmental Management

• Energy Markets & Policy

• Business Economics and Public Policy

• Urban Public Policy and Private Economic Development

The program culminates in a capstone project or equivalent academic requirement, allowing students to apply their learning to real-world scenarios. Additionally, students may have the opportunity to choose electives that align with their interests in areas such as regulation, public finance, environmental policy, or sector economics.

Entry requirements

• Degree: A bachelor’s degree or equivalent from an accredited institution is required.
• Academic background: A strong foundation in economics, quantitative methods, statistics, or related fields is highly recommended.
• Standardized tests: The GRE and/or GMAT may be required or accepted based on the program's current admissions policy. It is advisable to check the latest requirements for specific tests and score thresholds.

Career prospects

Graduates of the M.S. in Business Economics and Public Policy are well-prepared for a variety of career paths in public policy, consulting, and regulated industries. The analytical skills and knowledge gained through the program enable them to navigate complex economic environments and contribute to effective policy-making and business strategies.