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MASTER OF SCIENCE IN ECONOMICS (MSE)

Approved Federal STEM Degree Program

The Master of Science in Economics is a federal STEM-designated degree that will equip you with the analytical skills and critical thinking necessary to understand complex economic systems and contribute meaningfully to business, policy, and research in a data-driven world.

The program’s coursework will teach you a broad skill set, including data acquisition, data analysis techniques, applying economic theory to analyze economic data, and competence with technical software. You will gain practical research experience in a career-focused program in applied economics and economic data analytics.

This program can be completed in 10 classes or 30 credit hours through a convenient one-year, cohort-based format spanning the fall, spring, and summer semesters, or in a two-year part-time format. All students must start in the fall semester.

Applicants must taken have Economics, Statistics, and Calculus at the undergraduate or graduate level.

REQUEST INFORMATION ABOUT THIS DEGREE

Complete the request information form below to learn about exciting opportunities awaiting you as a student at The University of Akron.

The cohort-based structure and smaller class sizes foster meaningful connections between students and faculty as well as among classmates.

F-1 students in STEM-accredited programs are eligible for up to three years of OPT after graduation.

Employment for economists is expected to grow twice as fast as the average for all occupations (6% vs 3% from 2022-2032) according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The average annual salary is $85,000 according to Payscale.

Nicole Bobbs

“I chose to pursue the MSE program to strengthen my ability to apply quantitative methods and economic theory to business challenges and real-world policies. My undergraduate degree in economics gave me a solid foundation, but I wanted more rigorous exposure. I chose this program because I value the Economics faculty and the strong support from the College of Business. I knew I would receive a quality education and assistance that I wouldn’t find elsewhere. Looking ahead, I see myself pursuing analytical roles in the private or public sector, especially positions where I can use data-driven insights to guide decision-making.”

NICOLE BOBBS

CURRENT MSE STUDENT

INFORMATION SESSION

Come and learn more about Graduate degree opportunities in the College of Business!

Join us in this virtual information session to learn more about our offerings and to get your questions answered.

DEMAND FOR ECONOMISTS

Master of Economics is ranked 12th in “45 Graduate Degree Jobs That Pay More Than $100K” by U.S. News & World Report (2025) and is 3rd in “10 of the Best Master’s Degrees for the Future,” by Indeed.com (2025).

There is a strong market demand for individuals who can do quantitative economic analysis using causal inferencing and forecasting. Organizations across many industries use economic analysis and quantitative methods to student and forecast business, sales and other market trends.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment demand is expected to be strong for these workers, as organizations increasingly turn to economists to apply analysis of big data to pricing, advertising, and other areas.

  • Bureau of Labor Statistics (2023): Faster than average job outlook for 2022-2032
  • 2024 Median Pay = $115,440 per year or $55.50 per hour

CAREER OPPORTUNITIES

Wide variety of fields which includes professional careers in:

  • Business
  • Banking
  • Financial Services
  • Federal, State, and Local Government
  • Consulting
  • Not-for-profit Organizations

CURRICULUM

CERTIFICATES

We also offer a variety of graduate certificates across multiple areas. Each certificate offers specialized training that is carefully devised to provide crucial skills.

Amelie Fernandez

“I chose to pursue the Master of Science in Economics program at The University of Akron to deepen my analytical skills and broaden my global business perspective. From day one, the program has challenged me to think critically and equipped me with the quantitative tools necessary to analyze complex data and translate it into actionable strategies. The STEM designation, cohort-based structure, and the opportunity to work closely with expert faculty were key factors in my decision.”

AMELIE FERNANDEZ

CURRENT MSE STUDENT

Sucharita Ghosh

DEPARTMENT OF ECONOMICS

The Department of Economics at The University of Akron consists of faculty with a rich history of education and close relationships with the professional community.

Dr. Sucharita Ghosh is a Professor of Economics and the Department Chair of the Economics Department. She has over 25 years of experience teaching undergraduate and graduate classes in macroeconomics, international trade, and international monetary economics. She was awarded the Buchtel College of Arts and Sciences Teaching Award in 2007, the Dean’s Excellence in Research Award in the College of Business in 2019, and the Office of the President's 2022-2024 Faculty Exemplary Service Award. Sucharita Ghosh also holds the rare distinction of having received the prestigious Fulbright Research Scholar award in 2006 and 2018 to share her expertise in international trade at universities in Italy.

To learn more about the programs, faculty, and resources that the Department of Economics provides, visit the link below.

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