University of Cincinnati

What you'll study

This programme builds a strong foundation in microeconomic and macroeconomic theory and intensive training in econometrics, then applies those tools to environmental and natural resource problems. Core modules typically cover advanced microeconomics, econometric methods for policy analysis, cost–benefit analysis and public economics. Specialist courses focus on environmental economics, natural resource economics, valuation of environmental goods, environmental policy instruments (taxes, tradable permits, regulation), and climate economics.

Students also undertake applied coursework and a research component. Typical applied units include environmental data analysis, programme evaluation, applied time‑series or panel methods, and geographic information systems (GIS) for environmental applications. The programme usually culminates in a capstone project, policy practicum or thesis that requires empirical work on a real policy question.

• Advanced Microeconomic Theory
• Econometrics for Policy Analysis
• Environmental and Natural Resource Economics
• Cost–Benefit and Valuation Methods
• Climate Policy and Carbon Markets
• Applied Environmental Data Analysis / GIS
• Research Methods and Policy Evaluation

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a bachelor’s degree in economics, environmental studies, mathematics, engineering, or another quantitative social science. Strong preparation in microeconomics, calculus and introductory statistics or econometrics is required; applicants lacking this background may be asked to complete prerequisite courses.

Typical application materials include official transcripts, a personal statement outlining academic and professional goals, a CV, and letters of recommendation. Some applicants choose to submit GRE scores where permitted, while international applicants will normally need to demonstrate English proficiency. Relevant work experience or coursework in environmental topics strengthens an application.

Career prospects

Graduates combine economic analysis and environmental expertise, making them attractive to a range of employers. Common career paths include roles as environmental economists, policy analysts, regulatory analysts, programme evaluators, and consultants. Employers include government environmental and natural resource agencies, intergovernmental organisations, environmental NGOs, private-sector consultancies, utilities and energy companies, and research institutes.

Graduates are also well prepared for further academic study (PhD) in economics, environmental economics or public policy, and for analytical positions requiring strong econometric and quantitative skills.

Why study at University of Cincinnati

The University of Cincinnati offers a research-led economics programme with strong quantitative training and opportunities for applied, policy‑oriented work. The university’s emphasis on experiential learning provides pathways to practicum placements, applied projects with external partners, and co‑operative education experiences that connect students with regional and national employers.

Students benefit from interdisciplinary collaboration across departments concerned with sustainability, public policy and environmental science, and access to faculty whose research covers environmental and resource economics, public policy evaluation, and applied econometrics. The programme’s location within a major urban research university also facilitates connections with state agencies, NGOs and private firms working on environmental policy and regulation.