Pace University

What you'll study

This programme combines core graduate economics training with specialised modules in environmental and resource economics and policy analysis. Core courses typically cover microeconomic theory, macroeconomic principles, and econometrics, providing the analytical and quantitative foundation needed to evaluate environmental problems and policy responses.

• Environmental and Resource Economics — valuation of environmental goods, externalities, common-pool resources, and natural resource allocation.
• Cost–Benefit and Policy Analysis — approaches to benefit estimation, discounting, regulatory impact assessment and programme evaluation in environmental contexts.
• Applied Econometrics and Data Analysis — techniques for causal inference, panel data, time series and programme evaluation using environmental and energy datasets.
• Energy and Climate Economics — market and policy drivers for energy systems, carbon pricing mechanisms and economic responses to climate change.
• Electives and Interdisciplinary Study — options typically include environmental law and regulation, urban and regional economics, sustainable finance, GIS for environmental analysis, and natural resource management, often drawn from related schools within the university.
• Capstone or Research Project — an applied project or thesis that allows students to address a practical policy question or carry out empirical research under faculty supervision.

Entry requirements

Applicants normally require a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution, preferably with substantial coursework in economics, mathematics (calculus, linear algebra) and statistics. Candidates from related quantitative disciplines are also considered but may be asked to take prerequisite modules. Typical application materials include undergraduate transcripts, a statement of purpose outlining academic and professional goals, a current CV or resume, and letters of recommendation.

International applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency via an accepted test or prior study in English where required. Some applicants may be asked to provide GRE scores if their academic preparation does not clearly demonstrate readiness for graduate-level quantitative work.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for roles that require economic analysis applied to environmental and energy issues. Common career paths include:

• Policy analyst or economist in government agencies and environmental regulators
• Consultant in environmental, energy or sustainability practices for private firms and consulting houses
• Researcher or analyst in think tanks and non-governmental organisations working on climate, conservation or natural resource policy
• Analyst roles in utilities, energy companies and financial institutions focusing on environmental risk and sustainable investment
• Continuation to doctoral study in economics, environmental policy or related interdisciplinary fields

Why study at Pace University

Pace offers this programme within a university structure that emphasises applied learning and close connections to professional practice. Located in the New York metropolitan area, students benefit from access to national and international organisations, regulatory bodies, consultancy firms and NGOs for internships and guest-led events. Faculty typically combine academic research with applied policy experience, and students can take interdisciplinary electives across departments to tailor their training to energy, urban sustainability or finance-related environmental work.

The programme’s relatively small cohort sizes enable direct faculty mentorship, hands-on research opportunities and practical project supervision, helping graduates build industry-relevant skills and professional networks in the region and beyond.