Hanover College

What you'll study

The programme builds on a foundation of core economics courses and quantitative skills, then applies those tools to environmental and policy questions. You will take introductory and intermediate microeconomics and macroeconomics, statistics and econometrics, and a senior seminar or capstone project. Environmental specialism options typically include courses in environmental economics, natural resource economics, public economics and regulatory policy, cost–benefit analysis, and environmental valuation methods.

Complementary courses from across the liberal arts strengthen contextual understanding and practical skills. Typical elective and supporting modules may cover environmental science or ecology, political science and public policy, geographic information systems (GIS), ethics, and economic development. Teaching methods combine lectures, small seminars, quantitative problem sets, case studies and a research-based capstone or independent study under faculty supervision. Internships and off-campus experiential learning opportunities are emphasised so students can apply theory to real-world environmental and policy challenges.

Entry requirements

Admission to Hanover College follows the institution’s standard undergraduate procedures. Candidates are expected to have completed a rigorous secondary-school curriculum with strong performance in mathematics; prior study in algebra, geometry and preferably calculus are recommended. Background in social sciences, laboratory sciences or economics is helpful but not mandatory.

Typical preparation for success on the programme includes competence in algebra and statistics, demonstrated analytical ability, and a readiness to engage in quantitative coursework. Applicants should consult Hanover College’s admissions office for specific application materials and information about academic preparation, placement testing and credit for prior study.

Career prospects

Graduates with an economics degree focused on environmental economics and policy move into a range of careers in the public, private and non-profit sectors. Common paths include roles as policy analysts, environmental economists, sustainability or corporate social responsibility specialists, natural resource analysts, and research assistants for think tanks or NGOs. Alumni also pursue positions in local and national government agencies concerned with environmental regulation, conservation and land-use planning, or work for consulting firms that advise on environmental impact, valuation and regulatory compliance.

The degree also prepares students for graduate study in economics, public policy, environmental science, law or business. The combination of quantitative training and interdisciplinary subject knowledge is valued by employers addressing climate risk, renewable energy, conservation finance and sustainable development challenges.

Why study at Hanover College

Hanover College is a small liberal-arts institution that emphasises close faculty mentoring, small-class learning and undergraduate research — features that benefit students studying economics and environmental policy. The college’s curriculum encourages cross-disciplinary links, enabling economics students to work with faculty in science, political science and environmental studies on applied projects.

Students benefit from a supportive campus community and opportunities for internships, summer research and experiential learning in the surrounding region. These hands-on experiences, together with a senior capstone or independent research project, help students build practical skills and a professional portfolio for employment or further study.