Marymount University

What you'll study

This programme builds a foundation in microeconomics, macroeconomics and econometrics before applying those tools to environmental issues. Typical modules cover:

• Core economics: Intermediate microeconomics, intermediate macroeconomics, principles of statistics and econometrics for policy analysis.
• Environmental economics: Market failures and the environment, valuation of ecosystem services, cost–benefit analysis for environmental projects, natural resource economics (renewable and non‑renewable resources).
• Policy and regulation: Environmental policy design and instruments (taxes, tradable permits, regulation), environmental law and institutions, climate policy and international environmental agreements.
• Methods and applied skills: Data analysis and modelling, geographic information systems (GIS) basics for environmental applications, experimental and behavioural approaches to environmental decision‑making.
• Capstone and experiential learning: A senior research project or applied practicum involving original research, policy analysis or an internship with a government agency, NGO or private sector firm.

Elective options allow you to tailor the degree toward sustainability, energy economics, urban environmental issues or public policy. Courses emphasise quantitative reasoning, clear communication of economic evidence and practical policy design.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a recognised secondary school diploma. Typical admissions criteria include a competitive academic record with strong preparation in mathematics (algebra and pre‑calculus are usually expected; calculus is advantageous), and transcripts demonstrating readiness for university‑level quantitative coursework.

Marymount also considers supporting materials such as a personal statement, letters of recommendation and any relevant extracurricular or work experience. International applicants will need to demonstrate English language proficiency through recognised tests or equivalent evidence of prior education in English. Transfer students should provide college transcripts; incoming transfers with foundational economics and mathematics coursework may receive credit for equivalent modules.

Career prospects

Graduates equipped with environmental economics and policy training pursue a range of careers in the public, private and third sectors. Common pathways include:

• Policy analyst or advisor in local, state or national government agencies working on environmental regulation, climate policy or resource management.
• Researcher or economist at think tanks and non‑profit organisations focused on sustainability, conservation and development.
• Consultant in environmental and sustainability consulting firms, performing cost‑benefit analyses, environmental impact assessments and policy evaluation.
• Roles in corporate sustainability and environmental compliance within energy, utilities, agriculture or manufacturing sectors.
• Further study at graduate level (e.g. MSc in Environmental Economics, MPP, MBA with sustainability focus, or doctoral programmes) for careers in research, academia or senior policy roles.

Hands‑on elements of the programme, such as internships and a capstone project, are designed to help students build professional networks and practical experience valued by employers.

Why study at Marymount University

Marymount University offers a small‑class, liberal arts environment with personalised attention from faculty who combine teaching with applied research. The university's location in the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area provides ready access to federal agencies, international organisations, think tanks and environmental NGOs for internships and collaborative projects.

The Economics programme emphasises experiential learning: undergraduate research opportunities, community‑engaged projects and internship placements are integral to the curriculum. Students benefit from career services and alumni networks that support internship searches and employment in the policy and environmental sectors.

Overall, Marymount’s programme is well suited to students seeking a quantitative economics education framed around real‑world environmental challenges, and who value close faculty mentorship and access to professional opportunities in the nation’s capital region.