University of Texas

What you'll study

The programme builds from a foundation in microeconomics, macroeconomics and econometrics into specialised modules that examine the economics of natural resource use, pollution control, climate change and energy systems. Typical study areas include cost–benefit analysis, environmental valuation, resource and energy economics, public economics and regulation, and quantitative methods for policy analysis.

• Core economics: principles of micro and macroeconomics, intermediate microeconomics, intermediate macroeconomics, and econometrics/statistics.
• Environmental specialisms: environmental and natural resource economics, climate change economics, energy economics, environmental policy design, and valuation methods for non-market goods.
• Quantitative skills: applied econometrics, data analysis, modelling of economic-environmental systems and, where available, GIS or programming for policy analysis.
• Interdisciplinary options: courses from public policy, environmental science, energy studies or geology to provide scientific and institutional context for economic analysis.
• Capstone and practical experience: a senior thesis or capstone project and opportunities for internships with research centres, government agencies or NGOs to apply methods to real-world environmental questions.

Entry requirements

Admissions follow the University of Texas undergraduate criteria for competitive majors. Applicants are expected to demonstrate strong academic achievement in secondary school, with particular strength in mathematics. Preparatory subjects that strengthen an application include calculus, statistics and any prior economics coursework.

• High school diploma or equivalent with solid academic record; selection is competitive and considers course rigor.
• Recommended preparation: calculus and statistics, with AP or IB mathematics where available; prior exposure to economics is helpful but not mandatory.
• International applicants: equivalent secondary qualifications and proof of English language proficiency where required.
• Successful applicants typically show evidence of quantitative aptitude, analytical writing, and an interest in environmental and policy issues; extracurricular experience or relevant work/internships strengthens an application.

Career prospects

Graduates are equipped to work at the intersection of economics and environmental policy. Career paths commonly taken by alumni include roles in government environmental or energy agencies, regulatory bodies, international organisations, environmental NGOs and private-sector consultancies.

• Environmental economist or policy analyst in public sector departments and agencies.
• Energy market analyst, sustainability consultant or corporate environmental strategist in private industry.
• Research assistant or analyst at think-tanks and international organisations working on climate, resource management or environmental regulation.
• Further study: many students progress to master's degrees in economics, environmental economics, public policy or to doctoral research.

Why study at University of Texas

The University of Texas offers a strong economics curriculum combined with substantial interdisciplinary resources for environmental study. Students benefit from links to research centres and institutes focused on energy, environment and public policy, which provide seminar series, research assistantships and internship connections.

• Access to faculty with expertise in environmental and energy economics and to applied research projects.
• Interdisciplinary collaboration opportunities with public policy, environmental science and engineering schools.
• Practical pathways through capstone projects and internships with government, industry and NGOs located in the region.