Illinois Wesleyan University

What you'll study

The Bachelor of Arts in Economics with a focus on Environmental Economics and Policy integrates core economic theory and quantitative methods with specialised study of environmental and resource problems. You will build a foundation in microeconomics, macroeconomics and econometrics before taking elective courses that address environmental topics and policy design.

• Core economics: Principles of microeconomics and macroeconomics, intermediate micro and macro theory, intermediate econometrics and applied statistics.
• Quantitative methods: Statistical inference, data analysis, modelling and courses that develop skills in applied regression, forecasting and cost–benefit techniques.
• Environmental and policy electives: Environmental economics, natural resource economics, public economics, cost–benefit analysis, environmental law and policy, and courses that examine climate policy, renewable resources and valuation of ecosystem services.
• Interdisciplinary options: Students often take complementary courses in political science, geography, environmental studies, biology or GIS to gain ecological and institutional context for economic analysis.
• Capstone and research: A senior seminar or capstone project applies economic theory and empirical methods to an environmental policy question; many students undertake independent research with faculty supervision.

Entry requirements

Admission is to the university; prospective students should show a strong high‑school academic record with particular strength in mathematics (algebra and precalculus or calculus) and quantitative courses. A competitive application typically includes a completed application form, high‑school transcripts, a personal statement and one or more teacher or counsellor recommendations. Standardised test submissions may be optional depending on admission policies; check the university's admissions guidance for current practice. Transfer applicants should present college transcripts and evidence of readiness for intermediate economics and statistics courses.

Career prospects

Graduates with training in environmental economics and policy are prepared for roles that require both quantitative analysis and an understanding of environmental institutions. Typical career paths include:

• Policy analyst or researcher in government agencies, environmental regulators and intergovernmental organisations.
• Economic or environmental consultant working on cost–benefit analysis, impact assessments and regulatory compliance.
• Data analyst or research associate in think tanks, NGOs and conservation organisations.
• Positions in sustainability and resource management within the private sector, such as corporate sustainability analyst or supply‑chain sustainability roles.
• Progression to graduate study in economics, public policy, environmental science, natural resource management or law for specialised careers in research, policy or academia.

Why study at Illinois Wesleyan University

Illinois Wesleyan University offers a liberal arts environment with small class sizes and close faculty mentorship, allowing economics students to receive individualised guidance on research and internships. The Economics Department emphasises applied learning and empirical skills, and students can work directly with faculty on senior projects or independent studies. The university supports experiential opportunities — internships with regional agencies and organisations, collaborative research, and interdisciplinary coursework — that connect classroom learning to real‑world environmental challenges. Career services and an active alumni network help students explore placements and graduate‑school options after graduation.