Rochester Institute of Technology

What you'll study

This programme builds a strong foundation in microeconomics, macroeconomics and econometrics before applying those tools to environmental and resource issues. Core modules typically include intermediate microeconomic theory, intermediate macroeconomics, statistics for economists and applied econometrics. Environmental-focused coursework commonly covers environmental and resource economics, cost–benefit analysis, natural resource policy, energy economics, and the economics of climate change.

• Quantitative methods: statistics, econometrics, mathematical economics and data analysis to evaluate environmental programmes and policies.
• Environmental electives: topics such as resource management, ecosystem services valuation, market-based instruments (carbon pricing, tradable permits), and environmental law and regulation.
• Policy and interdisciplinary perspectives: public economics, urban and regional economics, and courses that integrate insights from environmental science and sustainability studies.
• Capstone and experiential learning: senior research projects, policy analysis seminars or client-based projects developing policy recommendations or economic assessments for real organisations.

Students are encouraged to take complementary courses in statistics, GIS, environmental science, public policy or business to broaden practical skills. Many students also participate in internships or RIT’s co-operative education experiences to gain applied experience with government agencies, environmental consultancies, utilities or NGOs.

Entry requirements

Admission is at bachelor’s level and typically requires a secondary school diploma with strong performance in mathematics. Recommended preparatory subjects include calculus, algebra, and at least one social science or economics course if available. Applicants should demonstrate quantitative ability and critical reading and writing skills.

• Academic profile: competitive high school grades, especially in mathematics.
• Standardised tests: RIT may consider standardised test scores where applicable; check the institution’s current testing policies.
• Supplementary materials: a personal statement or essay describing interest in economics and environmental issues; letters of recommendation can strengthen an application.
• International applicants: proof of English language proficiency (for example, TOEFL or IELTS) is usually required unless exempted.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for roles that bridge economic analysis and environmental decision-making. Typical entry-level positions include environmental analyst, policy analyst, sustainability analyst, energy economist, regulatory analyst, and research assistant roles in think tanks, utilities, government agencies and consulting firms.

• Work in federal, state or local government on environmental regulation, climate policy and natural resource management.
• Employment with environmental consultancies and economic consultancies that undertake cost–benefit analysis, environmental impact assessment and valuation studies.
• Roles in corporations and utilities focused on sustainability strategy, carbon management and regulatory compliance.
• Positions with NGOs and international organisations on conservation, climate adaptation and development policy.
• Progression to graduate study (master’s in environmental economics, public policy, energy economics, or a PhD) or professional programmes (law, business) for specialised career paths.

Why study at Rochester Institute of Technology

RIT emphasises experiential education and career readiness, offering co‑operative education and internship networks that connect students with employers in the public, private and non‑profit sectors. The institute’s interdisciplinary approach allows students to combine economics with environmental science, data analytics and policy studies, and to work with campus research centres focused on sustainability and energy.

• Experiential learning: access to co‑op placements and project-based coursework that build practical skills employers seek.
• Interdisciplinary collaboration: opportunities to take complementary courses and work with faculty across economics, environmental science and policy units.
• Career support: dedicated career services and employer connections that assist with internships, co‑ops and post‑graduation placement.