Rockford University

What you'll study

This undergraduate programme builds a foundation in microeconomics, macroeconomics and econometrics, then applies those tools to environmental and natural resource problems. The curriculum emphasises quantitative analysis, policy design and interdisciplinary approaches drawing on environmental science and public policy.

• Core economics modules: principles of microeconomics and macroeconomics, intermediate microeconomics, intermediate macroeconomics, and econometrics/quantitative methods.
• Environmental economics modules: natural resource economics, environmental valuation and benefit–cost analysis, economics of pollution and climate change, and environmental accounting.
• Policy and applied courses: environmental policy and regulation, law and economics, energy economics, urban and regional environmental policy, and cost–benefit assessment of public projects.
• Interdisciplinary and technical skills: statistics for social scientists, geographic information systems (GIS) for environmental analysis, environmental science electives, and courses in sustainability or public administration.
• Capstone and experiential learning: a senior capstone or thesis project applying economic methods to an environmental policy question; opportunities for field projects, internships with local agencies or NGOs, and community-engaged research with faculty.

Students typically complete general education requirements alongside their major and can choose electives to tailor the degree toward quantitative analysis, public policy, or environmental science. Small-class seminars allow for close faculty supervision of research projects.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to have completed secondary education with strong preparation in mathematics (algebra and preferably calculus) and evidence of academic readiness for social science study. Typical entry criteria include a high-school diploma or equivalent with competitive grades; applicants from systems with A-levels, the International Baccalaureate, or comparable qualifications should present passes in relevant subjects such as mathematics, economics or sciences.

• Personal statement outlining interest in economics and environmental policy.
• Letters of recommendation from teachers or counsellors that speak to academic ability and quantitative aptitude.
• Non-native English speakers must meet the university's English-language proficiency requirements.
• Transfer applicants should provide college transcripts; some credit may be awarded for prior relevant coursework.

Applicants without a strong mathematics background may be advised to take preparatory coursework prior to starting intermediate economics modules.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for roles that require economic analysis applied to environmental and resource issues. Common early-career destinations include:

• Policy analyst or researcher in local, regional or national government departments concerned with environment, energy or natural resources.
• Analyst or consultant in environmental consulting firms, sustainability teams in the private sector, or think tanks focusing on climate and resource policy.
• Positions with non-governmental organisations and international agencies working on conservation, development and climate adaptation projects.
• Data analyst or research assistant roles that use econometrics and GIS for environmental projects.
• Progression to postgraduate study in economics, environmental economics, public policy, environmental science or law for those pursuing research or specialist policy careers.

The programme’s emphasis on quantitative skills, policy design and real-world projects helps graduates move into roles requiring both technical analysis and clear policy communication.

Why study at Rockford University

Rockford University offers a liberal-arts environment with small class sizes, close faculty mentoring and opportunities for cross-disciplinary collaboration — valuable for a field that bridges economics, science and policy. Faculty in the economics department combine applied research with teaching, supervising undergraduate research and capstone projects.

• Access to experiential learning: partnerships with local government bodies, conservation organisations and businesses for internships and project work.
• Regional context: the Rockford area and nearby river ecosystems provide practical opportunities for fieldwork and place-based study of resource and environmental issues.
• Supportive learning environment: advising for graduate school preparation, quantitative skills workshops, and career services to help secure internships and placements.
• Flexibility to tailor the degree: students can combine electives in environmental science, public policy or data analysis to match career goals.

Overall, the programme is suited to students seeking a rigorous economic training with an applied focus on environmental challenges and policy solutions, delivered in an intimate campus setting with strong opportunities for practical experience.