Dartmouth University

What you'll study

This programme builds a core in intermediate micro- and macro-economics and econometrics, then applies those tools to environmental questions. Typical course topics include natural resource economics, environmental and energy economics, cost–benefit analysis, public economics, climate policy, and the economics of sustainability. Students also take complementary courses in statistics, calculus and data analysis to support empirical work.

• Core economic methods: intermediate microeconomics, macroeconomics, and econometrics that underpin policy analysis.
• Environmental specialisms: natural resource economics, climate and energy economics, environmental valuation, and policy design and evaluation.
• Interdisciplinary options: ecology, environmental science, political science, law and public policy electives to provide scientific and institutional context.
• Practical skills: courses in applied statistics, spatial analysis/GIS, programming for data analysis, and cost–benefit and regulatory impact assessment.
• Capstone and research: a senior thesis or practicum project working with faculty or external partners, and opportunities for independent research during term and summer.

The degree typically follows a four‑year structure with a mix of introductory, intermediate and advanced courses; students can tailor their pathway through electives, research projects and internships. The quarter-based academic calendar at Dartmouth also allows flexibility in course sequencing and off‑term internships or fieldwork.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to demonstrate strong academic preparation in mathematics and quantitative reasoning (for example, through high‑level secondary mathematics such as calculus and statistics) and solid performance in college‑preparatory subjects. Typical successful applicants will have:

• A strong overall secondary school record with evidence of achievement in mathematics and analytical subjects.
• Preparation in introductory economics is helpful but not always required; readiness to take intermediate economics and econometrics is essential.
• Demonstrated interest in environmental issues through coursework, projects, extracurricular activities, internships or work experience.
• Personal statements and recommendations that speak to intellectual curiosity, quantitative ability and commitment to interdisciplinary problem‑solving.

As with other selective undergraduate programmes, admissions decisions are holistic and consider the full application, including academic transcript, essays, recommendations and any relevant experience. Transfer students should expect to provide detailed course records for transfer credit evaluation.

Career prospects

Graduates with an economics degree focused on environmental policy move into roles in government agencies, environmental and public policy NGOs, international organisations, consulting firms, environmental finance and corporate sustainability teams. Specific entry roles include policy analyst, environmental economist, research associate, data analyst and sustainability consultant.

• Public sector: policy and regulatory roles at local, regional and national environmental agencies and public utilities.
• NGOs and think tanks: programme design, policy analysis, advocacy and research on climate, conservation and sustainable development.
• Private sector: environmental, energy and sustainability consulting; roles in risk management and sustainable investment.
• Further study: many graduates pursue advanced degrees in economics, public policy, environmental science, law or business.

The programme’s emphasis on quantitative methods and applied research also prepares students for competitive internships and for continuing to professional or academic programmes.

Why study at Dartmouth University

Dartmouth offers the advantages of a liberal arts environment with close faculty‑student interaction, small seminar classes and broad interdisciplinary options. Students benefit from accessible faculty who are active researchers in economics and environmental policy, and from opportunities to engage in supervised undergraduate research and independent projects.

• Interdisciplinary learning: easy cross‑registration across departments and the ability to combine economics with environmental science, politics and law.
• Research and experiential opportunities: summer research, fieldwork in the surrounding natural environment, community partnerships and practicum projects with external organisations.
• Flexible academic calendar: Dartmouth’s term system supports internships, study away and concentrated research terms to gain practical experience.
• Career support: dedicated advising, alumni networks and internship pipelines that help students transition into public, private and academic careers.

Overall, the programme is well suited to students who want rigorous economic training applied to real‑world environmental and policy challenges, with strong support for undergraduate research and practical experience.