Wartburg College

What you'll study

This programme builds a firm foundation in microeconomics, macroeconomics and econometrics while layering on courses that apply economic analysis to environmental and natural resource issues. Typical modules and learning experiences include:

• Core economics: intermediate microeconomics and macroeconomics, principles of economics, economic statistics and econometrics.
• Environmental economics: market failures and externalities, valuation of environmental goods, cost–benefit analysis, natural resource economics and the economics of pollution control.
• Policy and regulation: environmental policy design, public economics, regulatory instruments, and the political economy of environmental decision-making.
• Interdisciplinary science and methods: environmental science or ecology electives, geographic information systems (GIS) basics, environmental law and policy, and quantitative methods for policy analysis.
• Applied work and synthesis: a senior seminar or capstone project that integrates theory and empirical work, independent research projects, and opportunities for internships with government agencies, non-profit organisations or private-sector firms.
• Electives and skills: energy economics, sustainable development, econometric modelling, data visualisation, and communication courses to prepare you to present technical findings to non-specialist audiences.

Entry requirements

Admission to Wartburg College’s undergraduate economics programme is based on a combination of academic preparation and the college’s general admissions criteria. Typical expectations include:

• A high school diploma or equivalent with a strong academic record.
• Preparation in mathematics (courses such as algebra, precalculus or calculus are highly recommended) and at least some coursework in social studies or economics where available.
• Supporting materials such as a personal statement, school transcripts and letters of recommendation. Applicants with relevant extracurricular experience (community projects, environmental clubs, research or internships) are especially competitive.
• Wartburg College’s admissions policies and any standardized testing requirements or recommendations may vary; applicants should consult the college’s admissions office for current guidance.

Career prospects

Graduates with training in environmental economics and policy are well placed for a variety of entry-level roles and further study. Common career directions include:

• Policy analyst or research assistant in local, state or federal government bodies working on environmental regulation, natural resources or energy policy.
• Analyst positions at environmental non-governmental organisations and think tanks focusing on conservation, climate policy and sustainable development.
• Consulting roles with firms that advise industry and governments on environmental impact assessment, sustainability strategy or cost–benefit analysis.
• Positions in the private sector in corporate sustainability, environmental compliance, or energy economics.
• Progression to graduate study in economics, public policy, environmental science, law or related disciplines for specialised or senior roles.

Why study at Wartburg College

Wartburg College offers a liberal arts setting that emphasises close faculty mentoring, small class sizes and opportunities for hands-on learning. The college encourages interdisciplinary study, allowing economics students to combine quantitative training with environmental science, political science and communication courses.

• Faculty access: personalised attention from faculty who supervise research and capstone projects.
• Experiential learning: internships, community partnerships and field-based learning that connect classroom theory to real-world environmental problems.
• Preparation for multiple pathways: the curriculum prepares students for immediate employment or for advanced study in economics, public policy, law or environmental science.
• Support services: career services, academic advising and opportunities for study abroad and co-curricular engagement that enrich the academic experience.