Rice University

What you'll study

This specialised master’s combines core economics training with applied courses in environmental and resource economics. Core modules typically cover microeconomic theory, macroeconomic foundations, and econometrics to build the analytical and empirical skills needed for policy evaluation and research. Environmental and policy‑focused options include courses in environmental economics, natural resource economics, energy economics, climate policy and cost–benefit analysis. Students also take elective seminars from allied departments—such as public policy, earth and atmospheric sciences, and energy studies—to gain interdisciplinary perspectives.

The programme usually offers a mix of classroom and research components, including an applied empirical project or capstone in which students use econometric techniques to analyse real environmental policy questions. Instruction emphasises causal inference, welfare analysis, valuation methods, and the design and evaluation of market‑based instruments (for example, carbon pricing and tradable permits).

Typical modules and methods

• Microeconomic Theory and Public Economics
• Applied Econometrics and Program Evaluation
• Environmental and Natural Resource Economics
• Energy Economics and Policy
• Cost–Benefit Analysis and Non‑market Valuation
• Climate Change Economics and Policy Instruments
• Research Seminar or Capstone Project

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution, preferably with substantial quantitative coursework. Typical preparation includes calculus, intermediate microeconomics and macroeconomics, statistics or probability, and introductory econometrics or data analysis. Programming experience (for example R, Python, Stata) is strongly recommended.

Admissions materials generally include academic transcripts, a statement of purpose that explains research or career objectives in environmental economics and policy, letters of recommendation, and a CV. English language proficiency evidence is required for applicants whose prior education was not in English. Some applicants may be asked to demonstrate additional quantitative preparation before or during the programme.

Career prospects

Graduates pursue careers across public, private and non‑profit sectors where economic analysis informs environmental decisions. Common roles include environmental or energy economist, policy analyst at government agencies and international organisations, consultant in environmental and energy practices, analyst at think tanks and research institutes, and specialist positions in utilities, energy firms and environmental NGOs. The empirical and quantitative training also prepares students to continue to doctoral study in economics or related fields.

Why study at Rice University

Rice offers a compact, research‑intensive environment with close ties between the Economics Department and policy‑focused centres. Students benefit from access to interdisciplinary expertise in energy and environment through institutes and research centres on campus, as well as the university’s location in Houston—a major hub for energy, environmental policy and industry—providing rich opportunities for internships, collaborations and applied projects. Small class sizes and faculty who work on applied microeconomics and policy evaluation create an environment well suited to students aiming to bridge rigorous economic analysis with real‑world environmental and energy challenges.