Doane University

What you'll study

This programme builds on Doane's liberal arts approach to deliver a rigorous economics curriculum with targeted coursework in environmental economics and public policy. You study microeconomics and macroeconomics, econometrics and quantitative methods, then apply those tools to environmental problems such as resource allocation, externalities, valuation of ecosystem services, and climate policy.

• Core economics: Principles of micro- and macroeconomics, intermediate microeconomics, intermediate macroeconomics, and econometrics/quantitative analysis.
• Environmental and policy-focused courses: Environmental economics, natural resource economics, environmental policy and regulation, cost–benefit analysis, and climate economics.
• Supporting disciplines: Environmental science or ecology electives, public policy, statistics, geographic information systems (GIS) or spatial analysis, and sustainability studies.
• Research and methods: Training in data analysis, econometric modelling, programme evaluation, and valuation methods for non-market goods.
• Capstone and experiential learning: A senior capstone project or thesis that typically addresses a real-world environmental policy question, practicum or internship with local government, NGOs, or private sector partners, and opportunities for faculty-led research.

Small seminar classes emphasise applied problem-solving, policy briefing writing, and presentation skills. Students are encouraged to pursue interdisciplinary electives and field components to complement classroom learning.

Entry requirements

Applicants should meet Doane University's general undergraduate admission requirements and demonstrate readiness for college-level quantitative coursework. Typical preparation includes high-school coursework in mathematics (algebra and preferably calculus), economics or social studies, and science. Applicants without formal economics background are welcome if they show strong quantitative and analytical skills.

• High-school diploma or equivalent with satisfactory academic performance.
• Evidence of quantitative ability: coursework in mathematics and performance in quantitative subjects.
• Personal statement or essay that outlines interest in economics and environmental or policy issues.
• Letters of recommendation that speak to academic preparedness and initiative are recommended.
• Transfer applicants: college transcripts and evidence of completed introductory economics or mathematics courses may be required for advanced placement.

Doane values holistic review; extracurricular experience in environmental organisations, community service, or relevant work can strengthen an application.

Career prospects

Graduates with this combination of economics and environmental policy are prepared for roles in government agencies, non-profit organisations, consulting firms, and private-sector companies focused on sustainability. Typical entry-level positions include policy analyst, environmental economist assistant, research analyst, programme evaluator, sustainability coordinator, and data analyst.

With additional experience or postgraduate study, alumni move into specialised roles such as environmental consultancy, natural resource management, regulatory affairs, urban and regional planning, and academic or government research. The programme also provides solid preparation for graduate study in economics, public policy, environmental management, or law.

Why study at Doane University

Doane offers small class sizes and close mentorship from faculty, allowing students to pursue applied research and policy projects with direct faculty supervision. The university emphasises experiential learning—students frequently engage in internships with local agencies and businesses, community-based projects, and cross-disciplinary collaboration with environmental science and public policy programmes.

Doane's campus community provides opportunities for leadership in sustainability initiatives, access to regional field sites for environmental study, and support services for career development and internship placement. The personalised academic environment is well suited to students who want hands-on experience translating economic analysis into practical environmental policy solutions.