Master of Arts in Economics
Data analytic skills are in high demand. In our STEM-classified M.A. in economics program, you’ll develop advanced quantitative skills and gain a competitive edge in the private and public sectors. This program is also excellent preparation for entering a doctoral program in economics or finance.
Want to learn more?
Watch the video below for an overview of VCU’s Master of Arts in Economics program, including curriculum, admission requirements and what sets the VCU School of Business apart.
Curriculum
The program consists of a six-course core focused on state-of-the-art modeling and data analytic skills. Specialize in one of our pre-designed concentrations or customize your own program with the remaining four courses:
- Financial economics: Develop expertise in financial markets.
- Health economics: Focus on health systems and policy.
- Statistics: Choose a data-analytic intensive course of study.
- General option: Work with a faculty adviser to structure a program of study tailored to your interests and career goals.
The degree can be completed on a full- or part-time basis. The M.A. in economics is an evening program. Some concentrations may require daytime courses.
Career opportunities
- Careers in the field:
- Risk analysts
- Public policy analysts
- Financial managers
- Data scientists
- Economic analysts
- Alumni employers include:
The ideas discussed and skills gained via the MA in Economics certainly supplied me with a leg up when it came to pursuing further certifications, such as the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) program. Without pursuing my MA in Economics at VCU, I’m not sure where I would be professionally!
ERICA BILLINGSLEA
Investment Officer, Virginia Retirement System
Frequently Asked Questions
Prerequisites for the Master of Arts in Economics can be seen here. Please keep in mind that completion of prerequisites are not required to apply and be accepted into this degree program. Typically, prerequisites are determined at the time of admission. If it is determined an applicant needs prerequisites, those can be worked into the student’s overall curriculum plan. If you have specific questions about what prerequisites you may need prior to applying, you can connect with us here.
The Master of Arts in Economics is 30 credits, 10 courses (pending prerequisites). This program offers a flexible pace, with the option to enroll full-time (3-4 courses/9-12 credits) or part-time (1-2 courses/3-6 credits) each semester. Each semester, students determine their course load to accommodate work/life balance. If attending full-time, this program is typically completed over 1 year/3 semesters. If attending part-time, this program is typically completed over 2 years/6 semesters.
Courses are offered in a variety of formats including on-campus, hybrid flexible and online. Students cannot complete this program 100% online. Students should live within commuting distance of VCU's campus.
Classes are held on weekday evenings, Monday through Thursday. Most courses meet once a week from 7-9:40 p.m. while fewer meet twice a week from 5:30-6:45 p.m. We do not offer any day-time courses for this program.
Yes! Our Master of Arts in Economics program holds STEM-designation.
Yes! Each semester, students determine their course load to accommodate work/life balance. With courses offered on weekday evenings, the day is open for working professionals to continue to remain employed while enrolled in our graduate program.
Yes! The Master of Arts in Economics program offers three optional concentrations including financial economics, health economics, and statistics. Each of these concentrations provides a list of approved electives that you can take to better align the degree with your career goals. You are also able to complete the degree without a concentration allowing you to customize your elective choices even further.
Yes, we have a recruitment team that is happy to meet with you via zoom, over the phone, or by appointment in our office located in Snead Hall. Schedule a meeting here.