MS in Applied Economics

GW’s Master of Science in Applied Economics provides students with the tools to succeed as economists in today’s data-driven world. Our graduates learn how to draw meaningful implications from data and integrate economic analysis into their professional lives. They apply economic theory and quantitative methods to real-world problems such as measuring the impacts of government programs and forecasting economic trends.

Classes are taught by a diverse faculty, utilizing both GW’s internationally recognized economics professors and professionals from local economic organizations. Our faculty brings to the classroom a combination of practical experience and deep knowledge. GW’s proximity to the institutions and resources of the nation’s capital adds an educational dimension not available elsewhere. Coursework includes not only training in economics but also data science, budgeting and public policy, and geographic information systems. Students also have the option to take up to two electives at the Trachtenberg School of Public Policy and Public Administration, the School of Business, the Milken Institute School of Public Health or the School of Engineering and Applied Science.

The MS in Applied Economics is a U.S. Department of Homeland Security STEM-designated degree program, which provides student visa holders with the opportunity for two additional years of post-graduation employment in the United States.

Apply to GW

Request More Information

Curriculum Details

Join the Graduate Programs Virtual Open House: October 17–27

Registration is open for the Columbian College of Arts and Sciences 2023 Open House! The online event includes program-specific information sessions and opportunities to engage with current graduate students, faculty and our admissions team.

The Economics Department is hosting an information session for prospective graduate students on Friday, Oct. 20 at 10:00 a.m. and Monday, Oct. 23 at 10:00 a.m. EDT.

Registration and Details

MS in Applied Economics Info Session: September 26

Join us online for an information session discussing the field of economics and the GW Master of Science in Applied Economics program.

Program Highlights

Full- or part-time enrollment options accommodate busy schedules; many students come to the program while continuing current employment in the Washington area.
Curriculum includes research and practical data-based projects, enabling students to demonstrate proven skills to existing or prospective employers.
Through GW’s partnership with the World Bank’s Data Lab University Data Fellows Program, students have the opportunity to work with World Bank economists on their projects of global significance.
Funding is available for students to complete internships and work with professors, either on research or in their classrooms.
Students have the option to enroll simultaneously in a graduate certificate program in a variety of different fields.

One-on-one faculty advising on course selection and career opportunities provides students with needed guidance.
A communication workshop helps students hone oral and written skills for presentation of economic analyses.
Our partnership with the National Association of Business Economists gives our students the opportunity to prepare for the Certified Business Economist® (CBE) professional certification in business economics and data analytics while completing their degree.
Program specialties in budgetary and fiscal policy, regulatory and anti-trust economics, financial regulation, economic forecasting, development economics, labor and human resource economics, international trade, financial policy and urban and regional economics support a broad array of career possibilities.

Information Session Recording

Female student seated in class with a laptop listening

View a recording of a recent online information session about the MS in Applied Economics program.

Online Information Session Recording

Student Outcomes

Identify economic questions and successfully answer them using the theoretical tools of micro- or macroeconomics and the quantitative tools of data analysis and econometrics.
Learn to review existing literature to understand what experts in the field already know about a given economic issue.
Use modern data visualization techniques and public speaking skills to effectively teach an audience something new.
Build a strong foundational knowledge in ethical writing practice to avoid common plagiarism and copyright pitfalls in research and written work.
Develop teamwork skills, problem-solving skills and the economic thinking needed to address any real-world economic issues.

Course Requirements

The following requirements must be fulfilled: 30 credits, including 18 credits in required courses and 12 credits in elective courses.

Code	Title	Credits
Required
ECON 6300	Mathematical Methods for Economics
ECON 6301	Applied Microeconomic Theory
ECON 6305	Applied Macroeconomic Theory
ECON 6374	Probability and Statistics for Economics
ECON 6375	Applied Econometrics
ECON 6376	Time Series Analysis
Electives
12 credits in elective Economics (ECON) courses at the 6000 level or above selected in consultation with the program director.
Note: ECON 6217, ECON 6218, and ECON 6219 may not be used to fulfill the elective requirement. With program approval, students may select up to two graduate-level courses offered by the Trachtenberg School of Public Policy and Public Administration, School of Business, Milken Institute School of Public Health, and/or School of Engineering and Applied Science to fulfill the elective requirement. Courses in other graduate programs may meet this requirement subject to approval by the program director.