Valparaiso University

What you'll study

The programme combines core economics training with specialised modules focused on the environment, natural resources and public policy. Typical core modules include microeconomic and macroeconomic theory at the graduate level, applied econometrics, and cost–benefit analysis. Core environmental and policy modules commonly cover environmental and natural resource economics, valuation methods for environmental goods, climate economics, and the economics of energy and sustainability.

• Advanced Microeconomic Theory
• Advanced Macroeconomic Theory
• Applied Econometrics and Data Analysis
• Environmental and Natural Resource Economics
• Valuation Methods and Non-market Valuation
• Policy Analysis, Regulatory Economics and Cost–Benefit Methods
• Energy Economics and Climate Policy
• Electives such as GIS for Economists, Environmental Law and Institutions, or Sustainable Development
• Capstone options: practicum with a public or non-profit partner, applied policy project, or a supervised thesis

Courses emphasise quantitative skills — particularly regression methods, time-series analysis, and simulation — and applied work using real-world datasets. The small cohort size typical at Valparaiso supports seminar-style discussion and close faculty mentoring, and students are encouraged to take relevant interdisciplinary electives from environmental studies, public policy, or political science.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a recognised bachelor’s degree in economics, mathematics, statistics, environmental studies, or a closely related discipline. Admissions typically look for evidence of quantitative preparation: undergraduate courses in calculus, intermediate micro- and macroeconomics, and introductory statistics or econometrics.

• Official academic transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended
• A personal statement outlining academic interests and professional goals
• Curriculum vitae or resume detailing relevant experience
• Letters of recommendation (usually one to three) from academic or professional referees
• Some applicants provide GRE scores where required or recommended; international applicants must demonstrate English proficiency if not already qualified by prior study in English

Applicants with strong quantitative aptitude but without formal economics preparation may be admitted with the requirement to complete pre-requisite undergraduate courses. Professional experience in environmental policy, natural resource management, or related fields can strengthen an application.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for roles that require both economic analysis and environmental policy insight. Common career paths include policy analyst or economist roles in government agencies (environmental protection, energy, natural resources), positions with environmental and conservation NGOs, and consulting roles in environmental and sustainability consultancies. Employers also include international organisations, utilities, and private-sector firms focused on corporate sustainability and environmental risk.

• Environmental economist or policy analyst in local, regional or national government
• Consultant in environmental, energy or natural resource firms
• Researcher or analyst at NGOs, think tanks or international organisations
• Sustainability analyst or corporate environmental strategist in industry
• Further academic study: progression to PhD programmes in economics, environmental economics or public policy

Why study at Valparaiso University

Valparaiso University offers the personalised teaching environment of a smaller institution combined with interdisciplinary opportunities across economics, environmental studies and public policy. The university’s location near Lake Michigan provides convenient access for coastal and watershed fieldwork and regional environmental datasets, while faculty mentorship supports applied practicum projects with public agencies and local organisations.

Students benefit from small class sizes, close contact with faculty, and a curriculum that balances theoretical rigour with practical, policy-focused training. The programme’s emphasis on ethical leadership and community engagement reflects Valparaiso’s liberal arts traditions and prepares graduates to address environmental challenges in both public and private sector settings.