Chapman University

What you'll study

The programme combines core graduate economics training with specialised courses in environmental and resource economics, policy analysis and applied quantitative methods. You will develop tools to evaluate environmental regulation, market-based instruments, cost–benefit analysis, and the economics of climate change and energy transition.

• Core economics: Microeconomic theory for policy analysis, macroeconomic policy and welfare economics tailored to environmental applications.
• Quantitative methods: Applied econometrics, time series or panel data methods, and computational techniques for modelling environmental and resource systems.
• Environmental specialisms: Environmental and natural resource economics, energy economics, climate change economics, biodiversity and ecosystem service valuation.
• Policy and instruments: Market instruments (carbon pricing, tradable permits), regulation design, environmental law interface, and cost–benefit analysis for environmental projects.
• Tools and applications: Policy impact evaluation, programme evaluation methods, and optional training in GIS or integrated assessment modelling depending on elective choice.
• Capstone project or thesis: An applied practicum, internship or a research thesis that applies economic methods to a real-world environmental policy question.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution, typically in economics, environmental studies, mathematics, statistics, engineering or a related social science. Successful candidates demonstrate quantitative ability and comfort with calculus, statistics and basic econometrics.

• Academic transcripts showing completion of an undergraduate degree.
• Evidence of quantitative preparation (courses in calculus, statistics, or introductory econometrics) or equivalent work experience.
• A statement of purpose outlining your interest in environmental economics and career goals.
• A current CV or résumé and two academic or professional references.
• For applicants whose first language is not English, an approved English proficiency test score or other institutional evidence of English ability is required.

Career prospects

Graduates move into roles that require economic and policy analysis of environmental issues in public, private and non‑profit sectors. Common career paths include:

• Environmental and energy policy analysts in local, regional and national government agencies.
• Economic or policy consultants in firms specialising in environmental regulation, sustainability strategy or carbon markets.
• Research positions at think tanks, NGOs and international organisations working on climate, natural resources and development policy.
• Analyst roles in utilities, energy companies and firms managing environmental compliance and sustainability reporting.
• Further academic study: students may progress to PhD programmes in economics, environmental economics or public policy.

Why study at Chapman University

Chapman offers a small-cohort, interdisciplinary environment that emphasises applied learning and close faculty mentoring. The university’s programmes encourage collaboration between economics, public policy, environmental science and business, providing students with access to complementary methods and internships.

• Small class sizes that allow direct interaction with faculty with expertise in applied economics and environmental policy.
• Interdisciplinary links enabling students to combine economic analysis with environmental science, law and business practice.
• Practical learning opportunities, including applied projects and local industry and government internships in the Southern California region.
• Career support and alumni networks that help graduates move into policy, consulting, industry and research roles focused on environmental challenges.