University of Northern Colorado

What you'll study

This programme builds from core economics—microeconomics, macroeconomics and econometrics—into applied and policy-oriented topics that address environmental and resource issues. You will study how markets, institutions and incentives shape environmental outcomes and learn quantitative tools to evaluate policy interventions.

• Core economics modules: principles of microeconomics and macroeconomics, intermediate micro and macro, econometrics and statistics for economists.
• Environmental and resource modules: environmental economics, natural resource and energy economics, climate change economics, valuation of environmental goods, and ecosystem services.
• Policy and law: public economics, environmental policy analysis, regulatory approaches, and environmental law and governance.
• Quantitative and technical skills: applied econometrics, data analysis, geographic information systems (GIS) for environmental applications, and cost–benefit analysis.
• Experiential components: applied research projects, a senior capstone or thesis, and opportunities for internships with local, state or regional environmental agencies and NGOs.
• Electives and interdisciplinary study: courses from biology, geology, political science or sustainability studies to broaden environmental knowledge and technical competence.

The programme is typically structured with lower-division general education and introductory economics in the first two years, followed by upper-division specialised economics and environmental policy courses. Students are encouraged to undertake research with faculty or pursue an internship to develop applied skills.

Entry requirements

Applicants should have a high school diploma or equivalent with a solid academic record. Preparation in mathematics (algebra and precalculus) is expected; coursework in economics, statistics, or environmental science is advantageous but not always required. Transfer applicants should present college-level credits and completion of introductory economics and quantitative courses where possible.

Typical admission takes into account the overall academic profile, strength of core subject preparation, and any relevant experience such as environmental volunteering, internships, or coursework. International applicants must meet the University of Northern Colorado's general admissions standards and any English language proficiency requirements.

Career prospects

Graduates with an economics degree emphasising environmental economics and policy pursue roles across public, private and non-profit sectors. Common career paths include:

• Environmental economist or analyst for government agencies and international organisations evaluating environmental regulation and resource management.
• Policy analyst in environmental departments, think tanks or NGOs working on climate, water, energy and land-use policy.
• Sustainability or environmental consultant in private firms advising on regulatory compliance, natural resource valuation and environmental impact assessments.
• Data analyst or research assistant using econometric and GIS skills to support environmental research and decision-making.
• Progression to graduate study in environmental economics, public policy, resource economics or related fields for academic or advanced professional roles.

Why study at University of Northern Colorado

The University of Northern Colorado offers a programme that blends rigorous economic training with applied environmental and policy coursework. Small to mid-sized class sizes provide opportunities for close faculty mentoring and involvement in research projects that address regional environmental challenges.

Located in Colorado, students benefit from proximity to diverse ecosystems and numerous state and regional agencies, creating strong internship and fieldwork opportunities. The university encourages interdisciplinary collaboration with environmental science, sustainability and political science departments, helping students build practical skills valued by employers and graduate programmes.

Career Services and academic advising support students in securing internships, applied projects and post-graduate placements, while the department’s emphasis on quantitative methods prepares graduates for data-driven roles in both the public and private sectors.