University of San Diego

What you'll study

This master’s combines core graduate economics training with specialised study in environmental and resource economics and public policy. Typical core modules include microeconomic theory, applied econometrics, and quantitative methods for policy evaluation. Environmental specialism modules typically cover environmental and natural resource economics, climate change economics, cost–benefit analysis and valuation methods for non‑market goods.

Students usually take a mix of compulsory cores and electives. Electives might include public economics, energy economics, environmental law and regulation, urban and regional economics, and spatial analysis for environmental applications. The programme emphasises applied empirical work: students complete econometric projects using environmental datasets and often undertake a capstone project or thesis that applies economic tools to a real‑world environmental policy question. Internship options and collaborative projects with local agencies and NGOs are commonly available to provide practical experience.

Entry requirements

• Academic background: A bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution, preferably with coursework in economics, mathematics or a closely related quantitative discipline. Candidates with other degrees but strong quantitative preparation may also be considered.
• Transcripts: Official academic transcripts from all post‑secondary institutions attended.
• Quantitative preparation: Evidence of coursework in calculus, statistics or introductory econometrics is typically expected. Some programmes may require or recommend bridging courses for applicants lacking these foundations.
• Supporting documents: A statement of purpose outlining academic and professional goals, one to three letters of recommendation, and a current CV or résumé.
• English language proficiency: For applicants whose first language is not English, a recognised English test score is usually required unless exempt under institutional policy.
• Standardised tests: Some applicants may submit GRE scores where required or recommended by the department; requirements vary by intake.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for careers in public agencies, consulting firms, research institutes, international organisations and non‑governmental organisations focused on environmental policy, climate, water and natural resource management. Typical roles include environmental economist, policy analyst, sustainability consultant, energy analyst, and programme evaluator. The quantitative and policy analysis skills also provide a pathway to doctoral study in economics or related fields.

Why study at University of San Diego

• Applied, interdisciplinary approach: The programme integrates rigorous economic training with policy and interdisciplinary perspectives, reflecting USD’s emphasis on applied learning and ethics in public policy.
• Location and professional links: San Diego’s regional concentration of environmental agencies, research institutions and non‑profits gives students access to internship and collaboration opportunities relevant to environmental and resource policy.
• Faculty expertise: Students learn from faculty engaged in research on environmental and natural resource economics, empirical policy analysis and sustainability, enabling supervision of applied capstone projects and theses.
• Small class sizes and career support: Compact cohorts allow close faculty mentoring and access to the university’s career services, which support placements in government, consultancy and NGO roles focused on environmental challenges.