University of Virginia

What you'll study

The programme builds core competence in economic theory and quantitative methods, then applies these tools to environmental and natural resource problems. Core modules typically include advanced microeconomics, applied econometrics and quantitative methods for policy evaluation. Specialist modules focus on environmental economics and policy such as resource and energy economics, cost–benefit analysis for environmental projects, valuation methods for ecosystem services, climate-change economics, environmental regulation and market-based instruments (for example carbon pricing and tradable permits).

Students can expect a mix of lectures, problem sets, empirical lab work and policy-oriented case studies. Practical elements often cover econometric analysis of environmental data, programme evaluation techniques (difference-in-differences, regression discontinuity, matching), and the design and assessment of policies to manage common-pool resources and pollution. Many students also take elective courses in related areas — public economics, behavioural economics, energy systems, development economics, law and policy — and may engage in interdisciplinary seminars with other schools across the university.

The degree typically culminates in a substantial applied research project, practicum or thesis where students investigate a real-world environmental policy question using economic methods. Internship opportunities and collaborative projects with external agencies are often available to provide field experience.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a relevant undergraduate degree such as economics, environmental studies with strong quantitative content, mathematics, statistics, engineering or a related social science with substantial training in mathematics. Competitive applicants normally have completed calculus, linear algebra, introductory probability and statistics, intermediate microeconomics and at least introductory econometrics.

Typical application materials include a transcript, personal statement outlining academic and career aims (with emphasis on environmental policy interests), two or three academic or professional references, and a CV. Some applicants may submit GRE scores where required or recommended; check the programme’s admissions guidance for current testing policy. Prior experience with statistical software (e.g. R, Stata, Python) is advantageous but not always mandatory.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for roles that require strong quantitative and policy-analysis skills applied to environmental challenges. Common career paths include policy analyst or economist roles in central and local government departments (environment, energy, finance), positions in international organisations and multilateral agencies, environmental and economic consultancies, think tanks and research institutes, and non-governmental organisations focused on climate and natural-resource management.

Other options include industry positions in energy companies and corporate sustainability teams, roles in carbon markets and environmental finance, and continued academic study leading to doctoral research in environmental economics or related fields. The programme’s combination of econometric training and applied policy work is particularly valued where evidence-based policy design and impact evaluation are required.

Why study at University of Virginia

Studying at the University of Virginia offers access to a well-regarded economics department that emphasises rigorous training in theory and empirics alongside interdisciplinary opportunities. Students benefit from collaboration across schools and centres at the university that focus on public policy, environmental research and energy systems, enabling exposure to policy practitioners and multidisciplinary perspectives.

The university’s location and network facilitate engagement with regional and national policy communities, and the curriculum is designed to provide both technical depth and practical policy skills. Small-group seminars, faculty-supervised research projects and professional-development resources help students build the analytical toolkit and applied experience needed to influence environmental policy and resource-management decisions.