Cost & earnings at Indiana University Bloomington What students borrow here, and what they go on to earn
The Master’s in Economics with a focus on Environmental Economics and Policy at Indiana University Bloomington combines rigorous economic theory and applied quantitative training with specialist study of environmental and natural resource issues. It suits students who want to apply economic analysis to climate, energy, resource management and environmental policy problems in government, NGOs, consultancy and research.
This programme builds a strong foundation in microeconomics, macroeconomics and econometrics before moving into specialised topics in environmental economics and policy. Core modules typically cover advanced microeconomic theory, applied econometrics and quantitative methods for policy analysis. Specialist modules explore environmental and natural resource economics, cost–benefit analysis for environmental projects, energy economics, climate change economics, valuation of ecosystem services, and the design of regulatory and market-based instruments (for example, emissions trading and environmental taxes).
Students choose from a combination of seminars, elective courses and applied workshops that emphasise empirical work using real-world datasets and policy cases. Typical course formats include problem sets, empirical projects, policy memos and presentations. The degree normally offers a choice between a thesis or a practicum/capstone project: the thesis is research-led and requires econometric analysis of an environmental policy question, while the practicum places students in a policy or industry setting to deliver an applied analytical product.
Applicants are expected to hold a bachelor’s degree from a recognised institution. A background in economics, mathematics, statistics or a closely related quantitative discipline is strongly preferred. Typical preparation includes introductory and intermediate microeconomics and macroeconomics, multivariable calculus, linear algebra and an introductory course in statistics or probability. Practical experience with data analysis or programming (for example, R, Stata, Python) is advantageous.
Admissions assess academic transcripts, a personal statement outlining your interest in environmental economics and policy, academic or professional references, and a curriculum vitae. International applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency according to the university’s standard requirements. Some applicants may be asked to provide GRE scores where required by the department; consult the programme admissions page for current guidance.
Graduates work across the public, private and non-profit sectors, applying economic tools to environmental and resource challenges. Typical roles include environmental economist, policy analyst, energy market analyst, climate policy adviser, and consultant for environmental and sustainability practices. Employers hire graduates in central and regional government agencies, environmental regulatory bodies, international organisations and development banks, environmental consultancies, utilities and energy firms, and research institutes or think tanks.
The programme also provides a rigorous preparation for further academic study; some students progress to PhD programmes in economics, environmental economics or public policy where advanced econometric and research skills developed during the master’s are essential.
Indiana University Bloomington offers a strong combination of core economic training and interdisciplinary collaboration across environmental and public affairs disciplines. Students benefit from access to faculty with expertise in applied environmental and resource economics, and the opportunity to take elective courses or collaborate on research with the O’Neill School (School of Public and Environmental Affairs) and affiliated research centres.
The department emphasises hands-on empirical work and offers resources for data analysis, supervised research projects and practicum placements with policy stakeholders. Bloomington’s academic community and research centres provide a supportive environment for students seeking to influence environmental policy through evidence-based economic analysis.
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