Massachusetts Institute of Technology

What you'll study

The programme builds a solid core of graduate microeconomic theory and econometrics and applies these tools to environmental problems. Core topics typically include applied microeconomics, advanced econometric methods, cost–benefit analysis and programme evaluation methods. Electives and specialist modules focus on environmental and resource economics, climate policy design, energy economics, natural resource management, valuation methods for environmental goods, and the economics of innovation and technology adoption.

• Graduate microeconomic theory and public economics with emphasis on externalities, property rights and regulation
• Applied and advanced econometrics for causal inference and policy evaluation
• Environmental and natural resource economics, including non-market valuation and biodiversity economics
• Climate economics and policy, carbon pricing, and integrated assessment approaches
• Energy economics and modelling of energy systems and markets
• Methods courses in cost–benefit analysis, uncertainty, and decision-making under risk
• Quantitative skills: programming for data analysis, optimisation and simulation methods
• Capstone research project or thesis in collaboration with one of MIT’s environmental research centres

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a good undergraduate degree in economics, mathematics, engineering, the physical sciences or a related quantitative discipline. Successful candidates typically demonstrate:

• A solid foundation in calculus, linear algebra, probability and statistics
• Undergraduate coursework in intermediate microeconomics and econometrics or equivalent quantitative preparation
• Evidence of strong quantitative and analytical ability, shown through transcripts, prior research or relevant work experience
• A personal statement outlining academic interests and fit with environmental economics and policy
• Letters of recommendation and an academic CV; prior research experience or publications are advantageous

Familiarity with programming (e.g. Python, R, Stata, Julia) and experience with data analysis or modelling are highly recommended. English language proficiency is required for applicants whose first language is not English.

Career prospects

Graduates use their quantitative economics training to influence environmental and energy policy, guide corporate strategy and conduct research. Typical career destinations include:

• Government departments and regulatory agencies working on climate, environment and energy policy
• International organisations and development agencies addressing environmental and resource challenges
• Consulting firms specialising in environmental economics, energy markets and policy evaluation
• Energy, utility and resource sector companies in strategy, policy analysis and market design roles
• Non-governmental organisations and think tanks conducting policy research and advocacy
• Research institutions or progression to doctoral study in economics, environmental science or public policy

Why study at Massachusetts Institute of Technology

MIT combines rigorous economic theory and empirical method with strong interdisciplinary engagement on environmental and energy issues. Students benefit from proximity to dedicated research centres and initiatives that bridge economics, engineering and public policy, offering opportunities for collaborative projects and access to extensive datasets and modelling tools.

The institute’s strengths in quantitative training, systems modelling and technology policy, together with connections across industry, government and international research networks, provide a platform for students who want to design evidence-based environmental and climate solutions at scale.