Albright College

What you'll study

The programme builds a foundation in microeconomics, macroeconomics and quantitative methods, then applies those tools to environmental topics such as resource use, pollution, valuation of ecosystem services and regulation. You will take a mix of required and elective courses across economics, environmental studies and political science, with opportunities for applied projects and field work.

• Core economics: Principles of Microeconomics, Principles of Macroeconomics, Intermediate Microeconomics, Intermediate Macroeconomics.
• Quantitative skills: Statistics for Economists, Econometrics, Mathematical Methods or Data Analysis for Policy.
• Environmental economics and policy: Environmental Economics, Natural Resource and Energy Economics, Cost–Benefit Analysis, Economics of Climate Change, Environmental Valuation.
• Complementary subjects: Environmental Law and Policy, Sustainable Development, Public Economics, Urban and Regional Economics, Conservation Biology or Ecology (cross-listed).
• Applied learning: Senior Seminar/Capstone in Environmental Economics and Policy, faculty-supervised research projects, internships with government, NGOs or private sector partners, and community-based practicum options.
• Electives and skills: Geographic Information Systems (GIS), environmental impact assessment, policy advocacy and communication, and opportunities to combine coursework with study abroad.

Students are encouraged to undertake an independent research thesis or an experiential capstone that integrates economic analysis with real-world environmental policy questions, often working closely with faculty supervisors.

Entry requirements

Admission to Albright College’s undergraduate programmes typically requires a recognised secondary school completion. Applicants are expected to demonstrate strong preparation in mathematics (algebra and preferably precalculus) and a solid academic record across a broad curriculum. Suggested qualifications include:

• A completed high school diploma or equivalent from an accredited institution.
• Evidence of quantitative ability: higher-level mathematics, statistics, or courses with substantial numerical content are recommended.
• A strong academic record (transcripts) and a personal statement that outlines interest in economics and environmental issues.
• Letters of recommendation from teachers or counsellors who can speak to academic readiness and motivation.
• Relevant extracurricular experience (environmental clubs, volunteer work, internships) is helpful but not required.

Albright practices a holistic review of applications; standardised test submission policies can vary, so prospective students should consult the college’s admissions office for current guidance.

Career prospects

Graduates with a concentration in Environmental Economics and Policy are prepared for roles in the public, private and non-profit sectors as well as for graduate study. Typical career paths include:

• Policy analyst or economic analyst in local, state or national government agencies working on environmental regulation, climate policy or resource management.
• Sustainability or environmental consultant for private companies, consultancies and utilities, advising on cost–benefit analysis, regulatory compliance and corporate sustainability strategies.
• Research assistant or analyst at think tanks, NGOs and international organisations focused on environmental policy, conservation finance or development.
• Data analyst or market analyst roles that require quantitative skills and economic reasoning, including positions in energy markets and environmental markets (carbon trading, renewable energy finance).
• Further study: many graduates pursue graduate degrees in economics, public policy, environmental science or law to specialise or move into research and higher-level policy roles.

Why study at Albright College

Albright College offers a liberal arts environment with small class sizes and close faculty mentorship, which benefits students undertaking an interdisciplinary field like environmental economics. The college’s emphasis on experiential learning provides frequent opportunities for internships, community-engaged projects and undergraduate research. Albright’s location in southeastern Pennsylvania gives convenient access to regional government agencies, environmental organisations and businesses for placements and networking. Students also benefit from cross-department collaboration between the Economics and Environmental Studies programmes, access to campus resources such as research labs and GIS facilities, and advising that supports both career planning and graduate school preparation.