University of Michigan

What you'll study

The programme builds a solid foundation in microeconomic theory, macroeconomics and advanced econometrics before moving into specialised courses and research in environmental and resource economics. Typical early-stage coursework includes graduate microeconomic theory, probability and statistics for economists, and econometric methods. After completing core requirements, students take advanced field courses and seminars such as environmental and natural resource economics, energy economics, applied microeconometrics for environmental questions, public economics and cost–benefit analysis for environmental policy.

Students pursue original research under the supervision of departmental faculty and are expected to complete qualifying examinations and a dissertation that makes a substantive contribution to knowledge. Many students take supplementary courses across the university — for example, in the School for Environment and Sustainability, public policy, applied statistics, or engineering — and participate in interdisciplinary seminars and reading groups. Research methods emphasise causal inference, structural modelling, computational techniques and the use of observational and experimental data to evaluate environmental policies and interventions.

Typical modules and activities

• Graduate Microeconomic Theory (sequence)
• Advanced Econometrics and Applied Econometrics
• Environmental and Natural Resource Economics
• Energy Economics and Policy
• Public Economics and Regulation
• Field seminars, reading groups and working papers presentations
• Qualifying examinations and dissertation proposal
• Independent research and doctoral dissertation

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a strong undergraduate degree (or equivalent) in economics, mathematics, statistics, engineering, or a closely related discipline. Successful applicants typically have completed advanced undergraduate or master-level coursework in calculus, linear algebra, real analysis, probability and statistics, and intermediate economics (micro and macro). Prior coursework in econometrics is highly desirable.

Application materials generally include an academic transcript, a curriculum vitae, a statement of purpose describing research interests (with emphasis on environmental and resource topics where applicable), three or more academic letters of recommendation, and a writing sample or evidence of research experience. International applicants are required to demonstrate English proficiency through an approved test unless exempt by institutional policy. Some applicants may also submit GRE scores where permitted; applicants should consult the department’s admissions guidance for current testing policies.

Career prospects

Graduates of the programme pursue a range of careers in academia, government, non-governmental organisations, international agencies, research institutes, and the private sector. Typical roles include university faculty and postdoctoral researchers, economists and policy analysts in environmental and energy units of central government and regulatory agencies, researchers at think tanks and international organisations, and economists in consulting firms and private companies working on environmental risk, natural resource management, carbon markets and energy transition strategy.

The programme’s quantitative training and applied policy focus also make graduates competitive for data-science and research roles in industry, especially where environmental, climate or energy considerations intersect with financial and operational decision-making.

Why study at University of Michigan

The University of Michigan offers a large, research-active economics department and strong interdisciplinary links across campus that benefit students studying environmental economics and policy. Prospective students can draw on collaborations with the School for Environment and Sustainability, public policy programmes, engineering departments, and specialised institutes concerned with energy, climate and environmental policy.

Students benefit from access to faculty with diverse expertise in environmental and resource economics, active seminar series, research centres, and an intellectually vibrant community in Ann Arbor. The university also provides substantial resources for empirical work, including access to large datasets, computing facilities and opportunities for fieldwork and policy engagement. Doctoral candidates receive mentorship in research design, publication, and professional development to prepare for academic and applied research careers.