Berea College

What you'll study

The programme builds a strong foundation in microeconomics, macroeconomics and econometrics, then applies these tools to environmental and resource issues. You will cover market-based and regulatory approaches to environmental problems, cost–benefit analysis, valuation of ecosystem services, and the economics of renewable resources.

• Core modules: intermediate microeconomics, intermediate macroeconomics, statistics for economists, and econometrics.
• Environmental and policy modules: environmental economics, natural resource economics, public economics and environmental law and policy.
• Applied and methodological skills: cost–benefit analysis, environmental valuation techniques, policy evaluation, GIS and data visualisation, and quantitative modelling.
• Interdisciplinary and regional study: courses that integrate ecology, conservation, and sustainable development; coursework and field study that draw on the Appalachian region’s landscapes and communities.
• Capstone and experiential learning: a senior seminar or capstone project and a supervised internship or practicum with government agencies, non‑profits, consultancies or campus-led research projects.

The department emphasises close faculty mentoring, independent research opportunities and the ability to tailor electives toward climate policy, energy economics, conservation finance or local economic development.

Entry requirements

Berea College admits students with strong academic potential who also demonstrate commitment to community service and financial need; all students participate in the college’s work‑college programme. Typical applicants present a high school diploma or equivalent with a record of solid academic performance, and submit school transcripts, a personal statement and one or more recommendations. Standardised test scores may be optional in line with current college policy; international applicants must meet English language proficiency requirements. Successful candidates will demonstrate quantitative aptitude, curiosity about public policy and environmental issues, and a willingness to engage in the college’s labour program.

Career prospects

Graduates gain analytical and policy skills valued across multiple sectors. Career paths include roles such as policy analyst or economist in local and national government, environmental consultant, sustainability analyst for businesses and utilities, analyst or programme officer for environmental NGOs, natural resource manager, and roles in impact investment or conservation finance. Many students also pursue postgraduate study in economics, public policy, environmental science or related fields to prepare for research, academic or specialist professional roles.

Why study at Berea College

Berea College offers a small, close‑knit liberal‑arts environment with a distinctive work‑college model that reduces student financial burden while embedding practical skills and community responsibility. Students benefit from small class sizes, direct access to faculty, and interdisciplinary links across economics, environmental studies and Appalachian studies. The college’s location provides unique opportunities for fieldwork and applied research in regional environmental and economic issues, while the institutional emphasis on service and sustainability aligns well with training for careers in environmental policy and community development.