University of Chicago

What you'll study

The programme combines core graduate-level economics training with specialised coursework and applied projects in environmental and resource economics. Core modules typically cover microeconomic theory, advanced econometrics, and optimisation methods to ensure students can specify and estimate causal relationships and policy impacts. Environmental-focused courses include environmental and natural resource economics, economics of climate change, energy economics, valuation of environmental goods, cost–benefit analysis for environmental policy, and the economics of regulation and instruments (taxes, permits, subsidies).

Teaching formats include lectures, problem sets, empirical labs and small research seminars. Students undertake applied econometric assignments using large datasets, design policy evaluations and frequently complete a capstone research paper or practicum project that applies theory and methods to a policy question (for example, carbon pricing impacts, evaluation of renewable subsidy programmes, or valuation of ecosystem services). Electives allow cross-registration with other units on campus for interdisciplinary training, such as public policy, energy systems and environmental science.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a bachelor’s degree with strong quantitative preparation. Typical prerequisite coursework includes single-variable and multivariable calculus, linear algebra, intermediate microeconomics, and introductory statistics or probability; prior exposure to econometrics is strongly preferred. Admissions decisions are based on academic transcripts, a statement of purpose that outlines your research and career aims, letters of recommendation (usually from academic or professional referees), and a curriculum vitae.

International applicants whose first language is not English must demonstrate proficiency in English by an approved test or equivalent evidence. Some applicants may be invited to an interview or asked to submit a sample of quantitative work or a short mathematics/economics test. The programme is competitive and favours applicants who can demonstrate both quantitative skill and a clear interest in environmental and policy applications.

Career prospects

Graduates pursue careers across the public, private and non-profit sectors. Typical roles include environmental economist or policy analyst in government departments and regulators, consultant or analyst in environmental and energy consultancies, researcher at think tanks or research institutes, and analyst positions in international organisations concerned with development and climate policy. Employers also include energy companies, utilities, non-governmental organisations focused on conservation and climate, and advisory arms of financial institutions working on environmental risk.

Many students also use the degree as preparation for doctoral study in economics, environmental science or public policy. The programme’s strong emphasis on econometrics and applied research equips graduates to undertake rigorous impact evaluation, cost–benefit analysis and policy design work.

Why study at University of Chicago

The University of Chicago offers a distinctive combination of rigorous theoretical training and applied empirical work in economics. Students benefit from access to world-class faculty and frequent research seminars in economics and related disciplines. The campus supports interdisciplinary collaboration with centres such as the Energy Policy Institute at the University of Chicago (EPIC), the Becker Friedman Institute for Economic Research, and the Harris School of Public Policy, which expand opportunities for applied projects, policy engagement and internships.

Additional advantages include extensive data and computing resources, a strong placement and careers service with connections to government agencies, consultancies and research organisations, and a scholarly environment that emphasises careful causal inference and policy-relevant research. These resources make the University of Chicago a strong setting for students aiming to influence environmental and climate policy with rigorous economic analysis.