Florida International University

What you'll study

The programme builds on core graduate training in microeconomics, macroeconomics and econometrics while specialising in environmental and resource economics. You will study how economic incentives, regulation and market-based instruments affect environmental outcomes, and learn tools for cost–benefit analysis, valuation of ecosystem services and programme evaluation.

• Core economics and methods: advanced microeconomic theory, applied econometrics for policy analysis, welfare economics and public economics.
• Environmental economics: natural resource economics, environmental policy instruments (taxes, permits, subsidies), valuation methods for non-market goods, and the economics of climate change.
• Policy and applied modules: environmental law and policy, programme evaluation and impact assessment, energy economics, urban and transport economics as they relate to environmental outcomes.
• Quantitative and computational skills: data analysis using statistical software, time-series and panel data techniques, GIS applications for environmental data.
• Research component: a thesis or applied research project with a focus on an environmental policy issue, or a practicum/internship with a government agency, NGO or private sector partner.

Courses emphasise applied policy analysis, empirical methods and interdisciplinary perspectives from ecology, geography and public policy to better inform decision-making on resource management, pollution control and climate adaptation.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a recognised bachelor’s degree in economics or a closely related social science, engineering, mathematics or environmental discipline. Successful applicants typically demonstrate quantitative preparation through coursework in calculus, statistics and introductory econometrics.

• Academic transcripts: a good undergraduate degree from an accredited institution.
• Quantitative background: prior coursework in calculus, statistics and preferably intermediate microeconomics; applicants without formal preparation may be asked to complete bridging courses.
• English language proficiency: required for applicants whose first language is not English; evidence may be through recognised test scores or university-approved alternatives.
• Supporting documents: statement of purpose describing research or career goals, letters of recommendation, and a CV; some applicants may submit GRE scores if available.

Applicants with professional experience in environmental policy, natural resource management or related fields are welcome and may strengthen an application, particularly for practicum or applied project routes.

Career prospects

Graduates move into roles that apply economic analysis to environmental and resource challenges across public, private and non-profit sectors. Career paths commonly include:

• Policy analyst or economist in national and local government agencies (environmental protection, energy, natural resources, planning).
• Environmental or energy economist in consulting firms, think tanks and international organisations working on valuation, regulatory design and programme evaluation.
• Analyst roles in NGOs and advocacy groups focusing on conservation, climate policy and sustainable development.
• Industry positions in utilities, energy companies and firms with sustainability departments addressing carbon management, environmental compliance and resource efficiency.
• Continued academic or research careers via doctoral study in economics, environmental science or public policy.

Graduates are valued for their ability to translate data and economic evidence into practical policy recommendations, cost–benefit assessments and impact evaluations.

Why study at Florida International University

Florida International University offers a metropolitan research environment with strong connections to regional and international agencies concerned with coastal and tropical environmental issues. The university’s economics faculty include researchers active in environmental and energy economics, applied econometrics and policy evaluation, providing students with supervision for empirical projects.

• Location advantages: Miami’s proximity to coastal ecosystems, ports and a range of environmental stakeholders creates opportunities for applied research, fieldwork and internships related to climate resilience, coastal management and transboundary resource issues.
• Interdisciplinary collaboration: access to departments and centres focusing on urban planning, public policy, marine science and sustainability encourages cross-disciplinary projects and a broader understanding of environmental problems.
• Applied opportunities: partnerships with government agencies, NGOs and private sector organisations support practicum placements and project-based learning that connect theory to policy implementation.
• Training and resources: emphasis on empirical methods and access to modern computing facilities, data resources and faculty expertise prepare graduates for research and data-driven roles.

Overall, the programme suits students seeking rigorous economic training with a clear applied focus on environmental and policy problems in a region that is a living laboratory for climate and resource challenges.