Salisbury University

What you'll study

The programme builds a foundation in microeconomics, macroeconomics and econometrics before applying those tools to environmental and resource issues. Core topics include consumer and producer theory, market failure and public goods, cost–benefit analysis, natural resource economics, environmental valuation methods and the economics of pollution control. Quantitative training covers statistics, applied econometrics and data analysis using real-world environmental datasets.

• Core modules: Principles of Microeconomics, Principles of Macroeconomics, Intermediate Microeconomics, Intermediate Macroeconomics, Econometrics/Quantitative Methods.
• Environmental and policy modules: Environmental Economics, Natural Resource Economics, Environmental Policy and Regulation, Cost–Benefit Analysis, Climate Change Economics.
• Applied and interdisciplinary options: Public Economics, Urban and Regional Economics, GIS for environmental applications, Environmental Studies electives drawn from biology, geography or public policy.
• Capstone and practical experience: Senior seminar or research project, plus opportunities for internships with local and regional agencies or non-governmental organisations.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a secondary school diploma or equivalent with strong performance in mathematics and English. Successful candidates typically have completed coursework in algebra and calculus and demonstrate quantitative aptitude. Salisbury University considers the whole applicant, so academic records, personal statements, and any relevant extracurricular or work experience are taken into account.

• Recommended subjects: high school mathematics (calculus or pre-calculus), economics or social sciences where available.
• International applicants: proof of English proficiency is required if English is not a first language.
• Transfer students: previous college-level coursework in economics and mathematics will be evaluated for credit toward the major.

Career prospects

Graduates are well placed for roles that require economic analysis of environmental and regulatory issues. Typical entry-level positions include environmental or policy analyst, research assistant, sustainability analyst, natural resource planner and consultant roles in environmental economics. Alumni also move into government agencies, regional planning organisations, environmental NGOs, and private-sector firms advising on compliance, cost–benefit assessment and environmental impact.

Many graduates pursue further study such as a master's in environmental economics, public policy, environmental management or law, which can open doors to senior policy, research or academic careers.

Why study at Salisbury University

Salisbury University offers small class sizes and direct access to faculty who are active in applied research and community engagement, which benefits students pursuing interdisciplinary environmental work. Its location on Maryland's Eastern Shore provides proximity to varied coastal and estuarine environments, supporting field-based learning and internship opportunities with regional agencies and organisations concerned with coastal management and natural resources.

The university emphasises experiential learning, allowing students to combine rigorous economic training with hands-on projects, internships and opportunities to collaborate across departments such as Environmental Studies, Geography and Public Policy, preparing graduates for practical, policy-oriented careers.