University of Utah

What you'll study

The programme builds from a core economics curriculum into applied courses and electives that address environmental and natural resource issues. You will develop microeconomic and macroeconomic foundations, mathematical and statistical skills, and applied tools for policy analysis.

Core topics

• Principles of microeconomics and macroeconomics
• Intermediate microeconomic theory
• Econometrics and applied statistics for economists
• Calculus and quantitative methods for economic analysis

Environmental and policy-focused topics

• Environmental economics: market failures, externalities and valuation of environmental goods
• Resource and energy economics: renewable and non‑renewable resource management, energy markets
• Cost–benefit analysis and regulatory impact assessment
• Economics of climate change and adaptation strategies
• Public economics and environmental policy design
• Applied environmental data analysis and policy evaluation (using real data sets)

Structure and learning formats

Instruction combines lectures, problem sets, computer labs and seminars. Many students take an external or internal internship and complete a capstone project or undergraduate research paper applying economic methods to a real environmental policy question. Electives allow tailoring towards energy markets, conservation economics, or sustainability policy.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to have completed secondary education with a strong performance in quantitative subjects. Typical expectations include:

• A high school diploma or equivalent with solid grades in mathematics (including precalculus or calculus where available)
• Preparation in statistics and economics is advantageous but not always required; coursework or demonstrated ability in quantitative problem solving is important
• For transfer applicants, a record of college-level coursework in calculus and introductory economics will strengthen an application
• International applicants must meet the university's English language proficiency requirements
• Admissions considers overall academic record and curriculum strength; personal statements, references or portfolios of work can support applications

Prospective students should consult the university admissions office for formal application policies and any programme-specific recommendations.

Career prospects

Graduates combine economic analysis with environmental knowledge and are prepared for roles across public, private and non-profit sectors. Common career paths include:

• Environmental economist or analyst in government agencies (environment, energy, natural resources)
• Policy analyst or advisor focusing on climate, emissions trading, or regulatory design
• Sustainability consultant in private sector firms addressing resource use and corporate environmental strategy
• Energy market analyst for utilities, independent system operators, or financial firms
• Research assistant or analyst at think tanks, NGOs or international organisations
• Progression to postgraduate study (e.g. MSc or PhD in economics, environmental economics, public policy or related fields)

The programme’s quantitative training also supports careers in data analytics, programme evaluation and economic consulting.

Why study at University of Utah

The University of Utah offers a strong economics department with rigorous quantitative training and faculty conducting applied research on natural resources, energy and environmental policy. Its location in Salt Lake City provides convenient access to a wide range of public land agencies, state policymakers and regional energy and environmental organisations for internships and applied projects.

Students benefit from interdisciplinary collaborations across campus—linking economics with environmental science, public policy and law—and opportunities to undertake field-based work in nearby mountain and watershed environments. Small‑group seminars, undergraduate research supervision and regional professional networks help prepare graduates for both practical careers and further academic study.